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FRONTIERS IN PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES 39
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ABSTRACT
Flaxseed is grown in various regions across the globe, valued for its multifaceted utility in producing
fiber and oil, its role in medicinal applications, and its significance as a nutritional commodity.
Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) has garnered considerable interest as an intriguing organic nutritional
food source. Flaxseed boasts a rich content of dietary fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, lignans, as well as an
array of vitamins and minerals, making it a superb nutritional source. The bioactive compounds
found in flaxseed, such as lignans and phenolic compounds, exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory,
and potential anticancer properties. It also contains a substantial quantity of alpha-linolenic acid
(ALA), a vital omega-3 fatty acid, is also notable. ALA plays a crucial role in cardiovascular health,
inflammation modulation, and brain function. The synergistic effects of ALA and lignans make flax
seeds a valuable dietary source for improving cardiovascular health and potentially preventing
neurodegenerative diseases. Dietary fiber is another important component of flax seeds, contributing
to gastrointestinal health, blood sugar regulation, and weight management. The mucilage content in
flax seeds enhances their viscosity and aids in forming a protective layer along the gastrointestinal
tract. The growing preference of health-conscious consumers has led to the emergence of functional
foods as a prominent field in the realm of food science. This chapter delves into the nutritional and
bioactive aspects of flaxseed, shedding light on its potential to be a valuable herbal functional food
source that could contribute to improved human health and well-being.
KEYWORDS: Flaxseed, nutritional food, ALA, protein, dietary fibre, lignans, bioactive compound.
INTRODUCTION
Over the past few decades, there has been a notable change in consumer preferences
towards prioritizing the potential health advantages offered by particular foods and their
components. In addition to their fundamental role in alleviating hunger and fulfilling basic
nutritional needs, foods are now also being sought after for their capacity to proactively
prevent nutrition-related ailments and enhance the overall physical and mental wellness of
YOGITA SHINDE1*, ARCHANA SHAHA1, DIPALI TALELE1 &
NIKITA KOLTE2
1Department of Pharmacy, Vishwakarma University, School of Pharmacy,
Pune, Maharashtra, India.
2Department of Pharmacy, JSPM’s Jayawantrao Sawant Institute of Pharmacy,
Hadapsar, Pune, India.
*Corresponding Author: Y.A. Shinde, Email: galandeyogita@gmail.com
FLAXSEEDS AS A POTENTIAL HERBAL
FUNCTIONAL FOOD: NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS
AND BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS
Chapter
5
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individuals. This evolving consumer inclination towards foods with enhanced benefits has
propelled the food industry to ramp up the creation of functional foods, which have now
become a substantial segment within the realm of new food products.1 Functional foods
encompass those that offer supplementary health advantages beyond fundamental
nutrition, and herbal origins frequently align with this classification due to their inherent
compounds that contribute to overall health and vitality. Flax seeds fit well into both of
these trends due to their unique composition and potential health-promoting effects. Due to
its remarkable nutritive content and potent biological activity, flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum
L.), also known as linseed, has gained substantial prominence in the contemporary world.
This annual crop is cultivated primarily for its oil, fiber, as well as its utility in food and feed
purposes. The increased recognition of this crop's value has led to its incorporation across a
range of applications.2 Flaxseed, a crop with vibrant blue flowers, yields petite, flat seeds
that span a spectrum of hues from golden yellow to reddish brown as shown in Fig. 01.
These seeds offer a delightful nutty flavor and boast a crunchy yet chewy texture. Flaxseed,
originally native to India, was traditionally cultivated as a staple food crop in regions such
as Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Bihar.3 Flax seeds are rich in essential
nutrients, making them a valuable addition to the diet. They are an excellent source of
dietary fiber, healthy fats (particularly omega-3 fatty acids), and plant-based protein. Flax
seeds also contain vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, B vitamins, magnesium, and
manganese.4
Fig. 1: Flaxseed flowers & seeds
1.1 NUTRITIONAL COMPOSITION OF FLAXSEED
The protein content within flaxseed ranges between 10.5% and 31%. The primary protein
constituents found in flax are albumin and globulin. The globulin fraction constitutes a
significant portion, accounting for approximately 73.4% of the total, while the albumin
component makes up the remaining 26.6% of the protein content. Flaxseed's protein profile
is notably rich in amino acids such as arginine, aspartic acid, and glutamic acid, yet it is
limited in lysine. The notable presence of cysteine and methionine contributes to heightened
antioxidant levels, thereby potentially mitigating cancer risks. Flaxseed stands out as one of
the most abundant plant sources of α-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid.
Furthermore, it encompasses around 28% of dietary fiber. Diets abundant in dietary fiber
have the potential to lower the susceptibility to conditions like heart disease, diabetes,
colorectal cancer, obesity, and inflammation. The mineral content in flaxseed is noteworthy,
particularly in terms of phosphorous (650 mg/100 g), magnesium (350–431 mg/100 g), and
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calcium (236–250 mg/100 g). Conversely, the sodium content is minimal, amounting to just
27 mg/100 g. Additionally, flaxseed contains modest quantities of both water-soluble and
fat-soluble vitamins. It also features three distinct classes of phenolic compounds, namely
phenolic acids, flavonoids, and lignans. Of particular significance, it stands as an abundant
source of phytoestrogens, specifically lignans. Moreover, flaxseed's carbohydrate content is
low, measuring at just 1 g/100 g.5,6 Nutritional profile of flax seed is shown in Fig. 02.
Fig. 2: Nutritional profile of flax seed
2.0 HEALTH BENEFITS OF FLAXSEED
The plant-based food is abundant in nutrients and has the potential to provide numerous
health advantages owing to its blend of beneficial fats, dietary fiber, and a range of bioactive
substances. Here are some of the potential health advantages of consuming flaxseeds:
1. Omega-3-Fatty acids: Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential omega-3 fatty acid crucial
for human health, is abundantly present in flaxseeds, making them a premier plant-
based source. Omega-3 fatty acids, categorized into eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA),
docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), are pivotal
polyunsaturated fats. Flaxseeds are particularly high in ALA, which is a precursor to
EPA and DHA. To get the most benefit from the omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseeds, it's
important to consume them properly. Whole flaxseeds may pass through the digestive
system undigested, limiting the absorption of nutrients. Grinding flaxseeds before
consumption helps break down the outer shell and makes their nutrients more
accessible. Omega-3 fatty acids exhibit anti-inflammatory attributes and proves
advantageous for cardiovascular well-being by diminishing blood pressure, decreasing
triglyceride concentrations, and enhancing the general functionality of blood vessels.
Moreover, they contribute to averting blood clot formation and mitigating inflammation.
In the realm of cognitive health, omega-3 fatty acids play a pivotal role in both the
development and optimal operation of the brain. Notably, DHA stands out as a primary
architectural element crucial for brain structure. Adequate intake of omega-3s is
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associated with improved cognitive function, memory, and mood regulation, and
reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
2. Dietary Fiber: Flaxseeds provide a remarkable abundance of dietary fiber, encompassing
both soluble and insoluble varieties. The fiber content of flaxseeds contributes to their
many health benefits and makes them a valuable addition to a balanced diet. To fully
benefit from the fiber content of flaxseeds, it's recommended to consume them in ground
form and can be added to smoothies, yogurt, or oatmeal to boost fiber intake. They can
also be sprinkled over salads or incorporated into baked goods. The combination of
soluble and insoluble fiber in flaxseeds supports healthy digestion. By adding volume to
stool, insoluble fiber assists in preventing constipation and supporting consistent bowel
movements. Soluble fiber can help prevent diarrhea by absorbing excess water in the
colon. It also reduces overall calorie intake, making it easier to manage weight and avoid
overeating, particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of
developing type 2 diabetes.
3. Lignans: Lignans are recognized for their dual attributes as antioxidants and compounds
resembling estrogen. These qualities contribute to the neutralization of detrimental free
radicals within the body. These free radicals, known for their heightened reactivity,
possess the capacity to inflict harm upon DNA, proteins, and various cellular elements.
This destructive potential underscore their potential role in the emergence of cancer.
When flaxseeds are consumed, the body metabolizes the lignans into compounds that
can have various potential health benefits, including their role in cancer prevention.
4. Proteins: Flaxseeds contain approximately 20-25% protein by weight. Nevertheless, it's
crucial to acknowledge that although flaxseeds do encompass protein, they are not
classified as a primary protein source comparable to beans or lentils. Protein is crucial for
building and repairing tissues, including muscle tissues. It's essential for muscle growth,
maintenance, and overall bodily repair processes; they contribute to immune responses
and defense against infections, helping with digestion, energy production, and other
essential processes.
5. Bone Health: Flaxseeds offer several nutrients that can support bone health, although
they might not be as well-known for their bone-boosting properties as certain other
foods. It is a rich source of magnesium, mineral that works alongside calcium to promote
bone health. Magnesium is involved in bone mineralization and helps regulate calcium
levels in the body, also contains phosphorus, contributing to the overall mineral balance
that supports bone strength.
6. Cardiovascular Health: Flax seeds offer advantages for cardiovascular well-being,
rendering them a valuable inclusion within a heart-boosting diet. The anti-inflammatory
attributes of omega-3s are recognized for their potential to diminish the likelihood of
heart disease by enhancing cardiac performance, mitigating inflammation, and fostering
the optimal functionality of blood vessels. It contains antioxidants that help protect the
cells lining blood vessels from oxidative damage. This protection is essential for
maintaining the integrity of blood vessels and preventing atherosclerosis (hardening of
the arteries).7,8
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3.0. INCORPORATING FLAXSEED INTO THE DIET
Integrating flaxseeds into your dietary choices presents an excellent opportunity to infuse
your nutrition with a potent dose of healthful advantages. These seeds stand as a rich
reservoir of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and an array of diverse nutrients. Here are some
ways you can easily incorporate flaxseeds into your diet:
1. Ground Flaxseed: Whole flaxseeds can be difficult for your body to digest, so it's best to
consume ground flaxseeds. You can buy them pre-ground or grind them at home using a
coffee grinder or food processor. Ground flaxseeds can be added to various dishes
without altering their taste or texture.
2. Smoothies: One of the easiest ways to incorporate flaxseeds is by adding a tablespoon of
ground flaxseeds to your morning smoothie. This adds a nutty flavor and a boost of
nutrition.
3. Yogurt or oatmeal: Sprinkle ground flaxseeds on top of your yogurt or oatmeal for
added texture and a nutritional kick.
4. Baking: You can add ground flaxseeds to baked goods like muffins, pancakes, or bread.
They can often be used as an egg substitute in vegan baking – just mix 1 tablespoon of
ground flaxseeds with 3 tablespoons of water to replace one egg in recipes.
5. Salads: Sprinkle ground flaxseeds over salads to add crunch and nutrition. They work
well with both green salads and grain salads.
6. Cereal: Mix ground flaxseeds into your cereal for added fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
7. Homemade Granola or Energy Bars: When making homemade granola or energy bars,
you can include ground flaxseeds for added nutrition and a slightly nutty flavor.
8. Soups & stews: Stir ground flaxseeds into soups and stews just before serving. They can
help thicken the broth and add nutrition.
9. Flax seed oil: Flaxseed oil is another option, though it doesn't contain the fiber that
ground flaxseeds do. You can use flaxseed oil in salad dressings or drizzle it over cooked
vegetables.9,10
10. Flax seed Crackers: Make your own flaxseed crackers by combining ground flaxseeds
with water and seasoning, spreading the mixture thinly on a baking sheet, and baking
until crisp
3.1. CULINARY USES AND CHALLENGES OF USING FLAXSEED IN COOKING
Using flaxseeds in cooking offers various benefits and opportunities, but there are also some
challenges to consider.
Uses & benefits:
1. Nutritional boost: Abundant in their content of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and lignans
with antioxidant attributes, flaxseeds offer a remarkable nutritional profile.
Incorporating them into your meals can enhance the nutritional content of your diet.
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2. Heart Health: The omega-3 fatty acids found in flaxseeds have been linked to improved
heart health, including reducing inflammation, lowering blood pressure, and supporting
healthy cholesterol levels.
3. Digestive health: Flaxseeds are a great source of dietary fiber, which can aid in
digestion, promote regular bowel movements, and provide a sense of fullness.
4. Protein: Flaxseeds contain a moderate amount of plant-based protein, making them a
good option for vegetarians and vegans looking to increase their protein intake.
5. Texture & Flavor: When added to foods like yogurt, oatmeal, or smoothies, ground
flaxseeds can contribute a pleasant nutty flavor and a slightly crunchy texture.
6. Binding agent in baking: Flaxseeds can be used as an egg substitute in baking, making
them suitable for vegan recipes. This can be especially helpful for individuals with egg
allergies or dietary restrictions.
CHALLENGES
1. Digestive sensitivity: Some people may experience digestive discomfort when
consuming flaxseeds due to their high fiber content. It's important to gradually introduce
them into your diet to avoid gastrointestinal issues.
2. Oxidation: Flaxseeds contain healthy fats that can become rancid when exposed to light,
heat, and air. To prevent this, store flaxseeds in an airtight container in the refrigerator
and grind them as needed.
3. Nutrient absorption: While flaxseeds are nutritious, their hard outer shell can make it
difficult for the body to absorb all the nutrients they contain. Grinding them before
consumption enhances nutrient availability.
4. Allergies & interactions: Some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to
flaxseeds. Additionally, flaxseeds can interact with certain medications, so it's important
to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
5. Taste & Texture: Flaxseeds have a distinct nutty taste, which might not be appreciated
by everyone. If you're not fond of this flavor, it could affect your enjoyment of dishes
with added flaxseeds.
6. Calorie Density: Flaxseeds are calorie-dense, so while they offer many health benefits,
consuming them in large quantities without considering their calorie content could lead
to weight gain if not balanced with overall calorie intake.
3.2. RECOMMENDED DAILY INTAKE
Whole Flax Seeds: The recommended daily intake of whole flax seeds is around 1 to 2
tablespoons (about 10-20 grams). This provides a good balance of nutrients without
overloading your system.
Ground Flax Seeds: Ground flax seeds are more easily digested and absorbed by the body
compared to whole seeds. The recommended daily intake of ground flax seeds is also about
1 to 2 tablespoons.
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4.0. CONTRIBUTION OF FLAXSEES COMPOUNDS TO SUSTAINING GUT MICROBIOTA
AND HUMAN WELL-BEING
Human well-being is significantly influenced by the pivotal functions of the gut microbiota,
encompassing the facilitation of digestion, synthesis of vital nutrients, modulation of the
immune system, and safeguarding against detrimental pathogens. Imbalances in the gut
microbiota have been linked to various health issues, including inflammatory bowel
diseases, obesity, and metabolic disorders. Compounds derived from flaxseeds have been
observed to induce beneficial transformations within the intestinal microbiota, contributing
to the prevention and alleviation of diverse health conditions. (Fig. 2).
Fig. 3: Effect of Flaxseed on gut health
Flaxseeds are rich in dietary fiber, which is not only beneficial for promoting regular
bowel movements but also for providing a substrate for beneficial gut bacteria to ferment.
Fermentation of dietary fiber by gut bacteria produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs),
which have anti-inflammatory properties and contribute to the health of the gut lining.
Omega-3 fatty acids are known to have anti-inflammatory effects and may influence the
composition of the gut microbiota by favoring the growth of beneficial bacteria. Flaxseeds
contain lignans, which are polyphenolic compounds with antioxidant and potential
hormone-modulating properties. Some studies suggest that lignans may have prebiotic
effects, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Through their influence on the gut
microbiota, flaxseed constituents have showcased their ability to contribute to the
prevention of obesity in living organisms.11
5.0 CONCLUSION
Flaxseed has nutritional and functional properties. Flax seeds have gained significant focus
as a promising herbal functional food source due to their high nutritional profile and
bioactive compounds. They are particularly renowned for their high content of essential
fatty acids, primarily alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is an omega-3 fatty acid with
potential cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory benefits. Additionally, flax seeds are rich
source of dietary fiber, lignans, and protein. Research has shown that incorporating flax
seeds into the diet can contribute to improved heart health, reduced inflammation, and
potentially offer protection against certain chronic diseases, such as diabetes and certain
types of cancer. The lignans present in flax seeds have been associated with hormonal
balance and antioxidant properties, further adding to their potential health benefits.
Ingesting flaxseed promotes the proliferation of probiotic bacteria within the
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gastrointestinal tract. Additionally, it triggers the generation of metabolites that hold pivotal
functions in lipid and glucose metabolism, immune responses, and the maintenance of
homeostasis pathways. Further exploration is warranted to delve into the mechanisms
underpinning how flaxseed instigates favorable shifts in gut bacteria and enhances diverse
physiological functions. Flax seeds indeed hold significant promise as an herbal functional
food source due to their nutritional richness and bioactive compounds. While current
research supports many health benefits, continued investigation, innovation, and education
will help unlock their full potential in promoting human health and well-being.
6.0 REFERENCES
1. Bernacchia, R., Preti, R., & Vinci, G. (2014). Chemical composition and health benefits of
flaxseed. Austin J Nutri Food Sci, 2(8), 1045.
2. Mueed, A., Shibli, S., Korma, S. A., Madjirebaye, P., Esatbeyoglu, T., & Deng, Z. (2022). Flaxseed
Bioactive Compounds: Chemical composition, functional properties, food applications and health
benefits-related gut microbes. Foods, 11(20), 3307.
3. Gutte, K. B., Sahoo, A. K., & Ranveer, R. C. (2015). Bioactive components of flaxseed and its health
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6. Rubilar, M., Gutiérrez, C., Verdugo, M., Shene, C., & Sineiro, J. (2010). Flaxseed as a source of
functional ingredients. Journal of soil science and plant nutrition, 10(3), 373-377.
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benefits. Res. Environ. Life Sci, 9, 310-316.
8. Oomah, B. D. (2001). Flaxseed as a functional food source. Journal of the Science of Food and
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9. Kaur, P., Waghmare, R., Kumar, V., Rasane, P., Kaur, S., & Gat, Y. (2018). Recent advances in
utilization of flaxseed as potential source for value addition. OCL, 25(3), A304.
10. Kajla, P., Sharma, A., & Sood, D. R. (2015). Flaxseed—a potential functional food source. Journal of
food science and technology, 52, 1857-1871.
11. Mueed, A., Shibli, S., Korma, S. A., Madjirebaye, P., Esatbeyoglu, T., & Deng, Z. (2022). Flaxseed
Bioactive Compounds: Chemical composition, functional properties, food applications and health
benefits-related gut microbes. Foods, 11(20), 3307.
