Content uploaded by Mohd Afsahul Kalam
Author content
All content in this area was uploaded by Mohd Afsahul Kalam on May 15, 2024
Content may be subject to copyright.
Human Journals
Review Article
April 2024 Vol.:30, Issue:4
© All rights are reserved by Mohd Afsahul Kalam et al.
Tukhm-i-Katān (
Linum usitatissimum
Linn.): An Important Medicinal
Plant and its Uses in Unani System of Medicine
ijppr.humanjournals.com
Keywords: Linum usitatissimum L., Alsī, linseed, Katān,
omega-3 acid, α-linolenic acid
ABSTRACT
Tukhm-i-Katān is a seed obtained from an annual herb Linum
usitatissimum Linn. of Linaceae family. It is also known as
Flaxseeds which are smooth, lustrous, and dark brown in
colour. It has a mucilaginous, oily, and mildly bitter flavour. In
USM it is used for various medicinal properties like anti-
inflammatory, spermatogenic, vesicant, phlegm expectorant,
aphrodisiac, lithotriptic and calculus removal, general tonic,
galactagogue, and emmenagogue. So, it is used in pneumonia,
arthritis, dyspnoea, pleuritis, peritonitis. The aim of this review
paper is to collect the data on the phytochemicals, traditional
applications, and therapeutic uses. Various pharmacological
activities have been carried out on linseed like Antifungal,
Antibacterial, Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory and Wound
healing.
Mohd Afsahul Kalam1*, Abdul Habib2, Chand
Babu2, Riyaz Ahmad2, Nasir Nazir Wani2, Ajaz
Ahmad Bhat2
1Research Officer Unani SL-2, Regional Research
Institute of Unani Medicine, University of Kashmir,
Srinagar, J&K 190006 India.
2 PG Scholar, Department of Ilmul Advia, Regional
Research Institute of Unani Medicine, Srinagar,
University of Kashmir, Srinagar, J&K 190006 India.
Submitted: 20 March 2024
Accepted: 27 March 2024
Published: 30 April 2024
ijppr.humanjournals.com
Citation: Mohd Afsahul Kalam et al. Ijppr.Human, 2024; Vol. 30 (4): 268-282.
269
INTRODUCTION
Linum usitatissimum L. (Linaceae) is an annual herbaceous plant with 60-120 cm height.
Historically it is one of the earliest crop plants used to produce oil and fiber. Flax, or
flaxseed, is often called linseed. It is often grouped into one of several categories: “functional
food” “bioactive food” and an “endocrine active food”. Linnaeus assigned the botanical name
Linum usitatissimum in his book “Species Plantarum”. The name, Linum usitatissimum,
means “very useful”. The primary purpose of the introduction of flax to the United States by
colonists was to generate fiber for clothes. All parts of the flaxseed plant are used for
commercial purposes, either unprocessed or processed. High quality fibers with exceptional
strength and durability are produced by the stem. Prior to the 1990s, flax was mostly used to
make paper and linen, but flaxseed oil and its byproducts are also used to formulate animal
feed [1,2,3]. This plant, which is found in the Mediterranean and temperate zones, yields two
important products: fibers from the stem and flax oil from the seeds. The leftovers of the flax
seeds after the oil has been extracted, known as seedcakes, are likewise connected to it.
Flaxseed oil is sometimes called linseed oil. It is a primordial oil with antifungal qualities that
is used in paints, varnishes, astringents, bio-insecticides, herbicides, and medical purposes
[4,5]. The functions and properties of the linseed plant and its seeds are almost the same. Ibn
Sina says that its actions are similar to Ḥulba (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.). It has several
medical properties in USM, including lithotriptic, aphrodisiac, and calculus removal,
expectorant, vesicant, galactagogue, anti-inflammatory and emmenagogue effects. So, it is
used in Su‘āl (cough), īq al-Nafas (dyspnoea), Dhāt al-Ri’a (pneumonia), Dhāt al-Janb
(pleuritis), Waja‘al-Mafāil (arthritis/arthralgia), Mughalliz-i-Manī (semen inspissant),
Mufattit-i-Ḥaāt-i-Kulya (renal lithotriptic)[6,7]. Flaxseed oil contains saturated fatty acids
(palmitic and stearic), monounsaturated fatty acids (mostly oleic acid), and over α-linolenic
acid. It also contains protein and fiber [8]. Flaxseed oil is known for its health advantages due
to its unique chemical composition, which contains a high concentration of polyunsaturated
omega-3 fatty acids, and linoleic and α-linolenic fatty acids as its main constituents [9]. The α-
linolenic acid is an effective anti-inflammatory drug that reduces the synthesis of
inflammatory cytokines, lipids, and lipoproteins [10]. Linolenic acid has antibacterial
properties via inhibiting bacterial enoyl-acyl carrier protein reductase [11]. According to
various studies, Flaxseed oil has been found various health benefits such as reducing the risk
of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and cholesterol levels. Flaxseed oil contains several
antioxidants, including tocopherols, beta-carotene, phytosterols, polyphenols, and
ijppr.humanjournals.com
Citation: Mohd Afsahul Kalam et al. Ijppr.Human, 2024; Vol. 30 (4): 268-282.
270
flavonoids[12,13,14]. Tocopherols are lipid-soluble phytocompounds with four isomers: α, β, γ-,
and δ, they have several physiological effects, including antioxidant and anticancer properties
[15]. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce the incidence of cardiac arrhythmias and
sudden death in patients with coronary heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids are effective in
treating hyperlipidemia and hypertension [16].
MATERIALS AND METHODS
This review is prepared using all written, electronic, and web resources available. Both
contemporary and Unani texts were examined for information on its description, identity,
temperament, pharmacological researches, actions, therapeutic uses, etc. Publications and
research papers were sought through PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Scopus, and
other databases. The terms Alsī, linseed, flaxseed, flax, Tukhm-i-Katān, Katān and Bazr al-
Katān were used to look for more information about the material. For this review, 16 Unani
and other books, 26 research and review papers were consulted. The Standard Unani Medical
Terminology, which was released by the Central Council for Research in Unani System of
Medicine in association with the World Health Organisation and WHO international standard
terminologies on Unani medicine, provided the appropriate Unani terminologies.
Distributed
Its cultivation most likely started between 8,000 and 10,000 years ago in the fertile valleys of
Mesopotamia's so-called Fertile Crescent. In antiquity and the early modern era, flax was
highly valued for its food and medicinal properties. Since ancient times, it has been grown,
mostly for its oil and fibres. Although it originated in Egypt, linseed was also cultivated in
Holland, Russia, Afghanistan, Egypt, Holland, Turkey, South Russia, Pakistan, Britain, and
widely grown in India, primarily in the states of Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh,
Maharashtra, Bihar, Rajasthan, and the United Provinces. It was also occasionally found
growing wild [1,17,18,19].
Cultivation and collection:
It flourishes in clay soils with fine textures and high fertility. It is seeded in September-
October and harvested in March April in India. The herb is dried and the harvested seeds are
then utilized [1].
ijppr.humanjournals.com
Citation: Mohd Afsahul Kalam et al. Ijppr.Human, 2024; Vol. 30 (4): 268-282.
271
Botanical descriptions
Katān/Alsī (flax) Linum usitatissimum is a perennial plant in the genus Linum. The plant has
a willowy stem that grows to 0.6-1.5m in length stem solitary or few corymbosely branched
with grayish green leaves that are narrow, oval-shaped, and tapering towards the end. The
leaves are around 30-40 mm long and 3-5mm broad. It produces blue flowers that measure
15-20mm in diameter and 5 sepals, 2 outer elliptic acuminate with entire membranous
margins and 3 broader acuminate with ciliate margins. The fruits of Katān are spherical, dry,
and capsular. The Katān seeds are about 4-7 mm long and the seeds surface is smooth shining
dark brown in colour. They are slightly flattened laterally and have one edge more acute than
the other. The straight embryo, which has two big plano convex cotyledons with the radicle
pointing toward the hilar end, is surrounded by albuminous seeds. These seeds have a very
mucilaginous flavor, yet they have no smell at all [4,19,20].
Microscopic:
The linseed coat, endosperm, and cotyledon are the three separate components that may be
seen in a cross-section of the seed. The testa outermost layer, or epidermis, is composed of
stratified polygonal cells that are packed with mucilage. The outside of the cells has a thin
layer of cuticle. Two layers of flattened parenchymatous cells often lie under the epidermis;
these cells are known as round cells, due to their distinctive shape in surface view. Next to it
is a single layer that runs parallel to the length of the seed and is made of lignified, thick-
walled, pitted fibers. Many layers of thin-walled, relatively collapsed cells, extended at a
right angle to the length of the fibers, lie beneath the fibers and are referred to as cross cells.
The testa is internally restricted by a single layer of cells, each of which lumen is entirely
composed of the dark pigment known as tannin. Parenchymatous tissue, with cell layers
ranging in thickness from two to six, makes up the endosperm. Oil droplets and somewhat
asymmetrical aleurone grains with crystalloids and globoids make up the contents of the cell.
The contents of the cotyledon, which is made of regular parenchyma tissue, resemble those of
endosperm cells [20].
ijppr.humanjournals.com
Citation: Mohd Afsahul Kalam et al. Ijppr.Human, 2024; Vol. 30 (4): 268-282.
272
Taxonomical classification [21]
Kingdom : Plantae
Division : Angiosperm
Class : Eudicots
Subclass : Rosids
Order : Malpighiales
Family : Linaceae
Genus : Linum
Species : Usitatissimum
Description of Alsī (linseed) plant in Unani Medicine
The linseed plant has thin leaves and branches, shapeless blooms, and a fruit that is nearly the
size of a gram. The seeds are small, wide, slightly elongated, yellow, and blackish smooth,
with some being reddish; one type is black, and one is white. New, plump, and fatty seeds are
best [6,7,17,22,23]. These seeds and the oil extracted from them are used medicinally [17,23]. Their
smell is unpleasant. Linseed oil is highly transparent and colorless. It is prepared without the
use of heat. But the oil that is accessible on the market. It's a dark yellowish-brown colour.
Because it also contains oil from other seeds. These are the seeds of plants that are typically
generated alongside their plants. Salivary substances are abundant in its seeds, which become
sticky when soaked in cold water [23].
Fig. showing Tukhm-i-Katān (Linum Usitatissimum)
ijppr.humanjournals.com
Citation: Mohd Afsahul Kalam et al. Ijppr.Human, 2024; Vol. 30 (4): 268-282.
273
Mutarādifāt (Vernacular names)
Arabic : Bazr al-Katān [6,17,19,22,24,25] Katān [25,26]
Ayurveda : Atasī, Umā, Masrnā, Nilapushpī, Kshumā [17]
Bengali : Tīsī [17,19,20,25]
English : Linseed [6,17,18,19,26] Flax [18,19,25], Common flax [25]
Gujarati : Alshī [17,20,25]
Hindi : Alsī, Tīsī [6,20,17,22,25,26]
Kannada : Alashī [20]
Kashmiri : Alsi Alish, Kenu
Malayalam : Atasī Masina [20]
Marathi : Ātish [17] Alashī, Javasa [25]
Oriya : Atushi, Peso
Persian : Tukhm-i-Katān [6,17,22]
Punjabi : Alish, Alsi, Tisi [25]
Sanskrit : Badgandhā [17] Atasī, Chanaka, Madagandha, Nilpushpika [25]
Shīrazi : Bazarug [6,25,26]
Suryani : Bāri A‘lā [6,26]
Tamil : Alshī [20,25] Virai, Sirrali [18]
Telugu : Alasī [20] Atasī [25]
Turki : Ziggar [25]
Urdu : Alsī [19,20,24,25]Tīsī [19]
Unani : Līsfarmūn [6,26] Katān [18,20], Bazarul Katān [20]
Ajzā’ Musta’mala (Parts used)
▪ Seeds [19,20,24],
▪ Oil [19,24],
▪ Flowers [19]
Mizāj (temperament):
Hār Yābis (hot & dry) [17,20,23,27]
The seeds of all types are hot and dry in the first stage. According to Sheikh, its seeds are hot,
moderately moist and dry in the first grade. One perspective is that it is moderately hot and
ijppr.humanjournals.com
Citation: Mohd Afsahul Kalam et al. Ijppr.Human, 2024; Vol. 30 (4): 268-282.
274
cold and dry in the first degree, while another believes that it is hot and dry, but hotter than
dryness [6,7].
Nafa ‘Khās (main action)
The main action is Mukhrij-i-Balgham (expectorant).
Af’al (pharmacological action):
Muḥallil (resolvent), Mulayyin (laxative/softener), Mulaṭṭif (attenuant), Jālī (detergent),
Munḍij (concoctive), Musakkin-i-Waja‘(analgesic), Mudirr-i-bawl (diuretic), Mukhrij-i-
Balgham (expectorant), Muqawwī-i-Bāh (aphrodisiac), Muqawwī-i-Chashm (eye tonic),
Mufattit-i-Ḥasāh (lithotriptic) [6,7,17,19,20,23,27,28].
Iste’mālāt (therapeutic uses):
Su‘āl (cough), īq al-Nafas (dyspnoea), Dhāt al-Ri’a (pneumonia), Dhāt al-Janb (pleuritis),
Waja‘ al-Mafāil (arthritis/arthralgia), Mughalliz-i-Manī (semen inspissant), Mufattit-i-
Ḥasāh-i-Kulya (renal lithotriptic), Waram-i-Jigar (inflammation of liver), Waram al-ifāq
(peritonitis), Mufattit-i-Ḥasāh-i-Mathāna (vesical lithotriptic), Qūbā (tinea/ringworm),
Buthūr Labaniyya (acne) [6,7,17,19,20,23,27,28].
Tarkīb-i-Iste’māl (Method of use):
Amrāḍ-i-Udhun (diseases of the ear):
▪ Decoction of Linseed in onion juice is used to pour into the ear. It gives relief ear
inflammation [6,7].
Amrāḍ-i-‘Ayn (diseases of the eye):
▪ Cold water extracts the mucilaginous substance from the seeds, resulting in a jelly-like
material. The mucilage is used to drop into the eye in cases of conjunctival irritation [19].
Amrāḍ-i-Tanaffus (diseases of the respiratory system):
▪ Its Bakhūr/Dhūnī (incense), relieves nasal congestion and is useful in case of acute
coryza.
▪ Cough can be relieved by licking the roasted seeds along with honey [6,7].
▪ Roasted flaxseed can help in haemoptysis and productive cough [6,7].
ijppr.humanjournals.com
Citation: Mohd Afsahul Kalam et al. Ijppr.Human, 2024; Vol. 30 (4): 268-282.
275
Amrāḍ-i-Mi‘da wa Am‘ā (diseases of the stomach and intestine):
▪ Roasted flaxseed can help in constipation [6,7].
▪ 105 ml decoction of coarsely powdered well-ripened flaxseeds as well as its leaves is
used to induce vomiting [6,7]. It is helpful for the detoxification of morbid matter from the
stomach.
▪ Consuming 10.5 to 14 g of roasted flaxseeds induces constipation [6,7].
▪ It is helpful for Qūlanj (colic pain), when taken as 2 g daily [6,7].
▪ The poultice made with honey is effective as laxative [6,7].
Amrāḍ-i-Ṭiḥāl (diseases of spleen):
▪ The poultice made with honey is effective in treating splenitis [6,7].
Amrāḍ-i-Kulya wa Mathāna (diseases of kidney and bladder):
▪ It is helpful for kidney and bladder ulcers when taken as 2 g daily [6,7].
▪ After boiling 12 g of flaxseeds in water, a mucus like solution form. Consumption of this
solution orally is an effect remedy for removing kidney stones [6,7].
▪ A decoction of flaxseed prepared with Rogan Gul used as Ḥuqna (enema) is good for
treating kidney and bladder ulcers [6,7].
Amrāḍ-i-Nizām-i-Tanāsul (diseases of reproductive system):
▪ According to Vedas, gonorrhoea can be cured by administering five drops of warm
linseed oil to the orifice of the genital organ and by pouring the oil into the ear to reduce ear
pain [6,7].
▪ Drinking the decoction with Rogan Gul and douching is good for treating uterine ulcers
[6,7].
Amrāḍ-i-‘Izām-o-Mafāṣil (diseases of bones and joints):
▪ Pain can be relieved by heating some fennel powder mixed with linseed oil and applying
it to the back [6,7].
▪ The linseed decoction prepared with Rogan-i-Gul along with Aspghol (Plantago ovata), a
poultice is useful for joint pain, arthritis and gout [6,7].
▪ Along with Aspghol (Plantago ovata), poultice is useful for joint pain, arthritis, and gout
[6,7].
ijppr.humanjournals.com
Citation: Mohd Afsahul Kalam et al. Ijppr.Human, 2024; Vol. 30 (4): 268-282.
276
Amrāḍ-i-Jild (diseases of skin):
▪ Its poultice, when combined with vinegar, particularly with natron and figs, is extremely
effective against Kalaf (melasma), Qūbā (tinea/ringworm) and Buthūr Labaniyya (acne) [6,7].
▪ Wearing a linseed cloth helps relieve itching and swelling, eliminates heat, reduces
perspiration, and kills lice [7,26].
▪ When equal parts flaxseed and honey are mixed and put to the vitiligo or liniment with
vinegar, the colour changes [6,7].
▪ The poultice of Ḥurf (Lepidium sativum) and flaxseed, along with honey, is helpful for
the condition in which dryness and scaling of the nails occur. [6,7].
Miscellaneous
▪ Linseed oil and lime-water are combined in equal proportions to create the well-known
remedy for burn and scald known as “carron oil” [19].
▪ Using poultice along with honey and Roghan-i-Zaitun or Roghan-i-Banafsha is extremely
beneficial for internal and external inflammation [6,7].
Maḍarrat (adverse effect):
Late to digest and so produces stomach problems and indigestion [6,7,17,28]. Blurry vision, a
decrease of blood production, and testis. [6]
Musleh (corrective):
Kishnīz (Coriandrum sativum L) [7,17,20,28] & Bīhī (Cydonia oblonga) and Anār (Punica
granatum) [6,7] are used as correctives.
Badal (substitute)
Ḥulba (Trigonella foenum-graeceum) [6,7,17,20,28] is used as substitute of Alsī.
Miqdār Khūrāk (dosage):
The therapeutic dose of Alsī is mentioned as 5-14g. [6,7,28, 17,27]
ijppr.humanjournals.com
Citation: Mohd Afsahul Kalam et al. Ijppr.Human, 2024; Vol. 30 (4): 268-282.
277
Murakkabāt (compound formulations):
S.N.
Name of Compound
Drugs
Dose and
Administration
Action and uses
1.
Qurs-i-Dhāt al-Janb
5-10 g [29]
Anti-inflammatory and helps in
Pleuritis.
2.
Qayrūti-i-Arad-i-
Bāqla
For local applications [29]
Anti-inflammatory and helps in
Pleuritis.
3.
imād-i-Dāf-i-
Waram-i-Bawāsīr
Qawī
For local applications [29]
Analgesic and anti-
inflammatory, it helps in
hemorrhoids.
4.
imād-i-Waram-i-
Kulya Qawī
For local applications [29]
Anti-inflammatory and helps in
acute nephritis.
5.
La‘ūq Katān
10 g thrice a day [30]
Expectorant and helps in
dyspnoea.
6.
Ḥabb-i-Maghz Bādām
Two pills to be taken
twice daily [30]
Expectorant and helps in
chronic cough and hoarseness
of voice
7.
La‘ūq-i-Sapistān
Khyār Shambarī
10 g twice a day [30]
Broncho-relaxant and helps in
cold, coryza and cough.
8.
La‘ūq-i-Dīqun Nafas
10 g thrice a day [30]
Expectorant and helps in
dyspnoea.
9.
Marham Dakhilyūn
Cream 5 g mixed with 5
ml of ‘Arq Mako used as
a vaginal suppository [30]
Anti-inflammatory and helps in
metritis.
10.
Kundri
Adult- 6 g twice a day,
Children- 3 g twice a day
[31]
Tonic for the bladder and
kidneys helps in urinary
incontinence and polyuria.
11.
Ma‘jūn Pamba Dāna
6 g twice a day [31]
Aphrodisiac and
spermatogenic, helps in
spermatorrhoea and decreased
viscosity of semen.
12.
Marham-i-Dakhilyūn
Murakkab
15 g Marham mixed with
Roghan-i-Gul 25 ml and
Safedi Bayza Murgh
properly and used as a
vaginal suppository [31]
Anti-inflammatory and uterine
tonic, helps in metritis and
uterine debility.
ijppr.humanjournals.com
Citation: Mohd Afsahul Kalam et al. Ijppr.Human, 2024; Vol. 30 (4): 268-282.
278
Nutritional composition and Bioactive compounds of flaxseed [21,32,33, 34]
Table 1: Nutritional composition and bioactive compounds of flaxseed
S. N
Group of compounds
Specific compounds
A
Nutritional composition
1
Vitamins
Vitamin A; Vitamin B-Thiamine (B1),
Riboflavin (B2), Niacin, Pyridoxine,
Pantothenic acid, Biotin, Folic acid
2
Minerals
Potassium, Calcium, Phosphorous, Iron, phytic
acid
3
Protein
Cyclic peptides
4
Fatty acids
Linolenic acid, Omega 3 fatty acids, particularly
α-linolenic acid, linolenic acid, oleic acid,
stearic acid.
5
Dietary fiber
Soluble and insoluble fiber
6
Carbohydrates
Present
B
Bioactive compounds:
Alkaloids, phenolic compounds (lgnans, p-
coumaric, vaniline), ppolysaccharides,
cyanogenic glycosides (linustatin,
neolinustatin), phenolics (lignans), trypsin
inhibitor
Pharmacological studies
Antidepressant activity: Rath BP et al. (2012) studied the antidepressant potential of Linum
usitatissimum extract in Wistar rats. Antidepressant activity was measured using the tail
suspension test, forced swimming test, and locomotor activity. Compared to the common
medication imipramine, fluoxetine, and chlorpromazine, L. usitatissimum extract reported
less substantial antidepressant activity [35].
Anti-hyperglycaemic activity: An investigation was conducted on the impact of ethanolic
extract of Linum usitatissimum seeds on the production of oxygen reactive species associated
with hyperglycemia in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and pancreatic cells, as well as
pancreatic antioxidant enzymes in diabetic rats induced with alloxan. The outcome
demonstrated that in both the acute and subacute studies, treatment with the EELU (200 mg
and 400 mg/kg) considerably lowered the serum glucose level [36].
Anti-oxidant activity: Zanwar et al. (2010) assessed the anti-oxidant activity of an ethanolic
extract of Linum usitatissimum (EE-LU) (100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 μg/ml) in an in-vitro
model. The outcomes showed that EE-LU and α-tocopherol significantly inhibited the DPPH
ijppr.humanjournals.com
Citation: Mohd Afsahul Kalam et al. Ijppr.Human, 2024; Vol. 30 (4): 268-282.
279
radical, reduced power, hydroxyl and superoxide anion radical scavenging, metal chelating,
and hydrogen peroxide scavenging [37].
Anti-peptic ulcer activity: In a recent study, Mahdi and Fariba (2013) assessed the aqueous
extract of the entire Linum usitatissimum Linn seed’s ability to prevent peptic ulcers.
According to their report, the extract exhibited significant spasmolytic activity and
demonstrated a protective effect against the development of experimental ulcers [38].
Type II diabetic activity: The effects of flaxseed gum use on blood glucose and cholesterol,
namely low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, in type 2 diabetes were investigated. Flaxseed
gum was added to wheat flour chapattis. Sixty patients with type 2 diabetes were fed a daily
meal for three months, along with six wheat flour chapattis containing flaxseed gum (5 g), as
recommended by the American Diabetic Association. The control group (60 people) ate the
same food, except the chapattis lacked gum. The experimental group's fasting blood sugar fell
from 154 ± 8 mg/dl to 136 ± 7 mg/dl (P=0.03), while total cholesterol decreased from 182 ±
11 mg/dl to 163 ± 9 mg/dl (P=0.03). Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol decreased from 110
± 8 mg/dl to 92 ± 9 mg/dl (P = 0.02). The study found that flax gum can improve the blood
biochemistry profiles of people with type 2 diabetes [39].
Antifungal and Antibacterial Activity: The antibacterial and antifungal properties of Linum
usitatissimum (flax seeds) were investigated by Narender et al. (2016) Flax seed extracts have
antibacterial and antifungal properties due to their special blend of several phenylpropanoid
components. Research indicates that extracts from flax seeds may be a viable replacement for
antibiotic therapy and an efficient supply of antibacterial chemicals [40].
Wound healing activity: An experiment was done to assess the ability of flaxseed oil to heal
wounds caused by incisions. The application of flaxseed oil greatly accelerates the healing
process of wounds and suggests flaxseed as a potent herbal remedy for skin wounds [41].
Analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity: The analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties
of Alsī were assessed by Rafieian-Kopaei et al. (2017). In each set, the analgesic actions were
assessed after 5, 15, 30, and 60 minutes, respectively. While there was analgesic activity at
both doses, the effects of the 200 mg/kg were greater (P <.05). A portion of its action was
mitigated by naloxone (P <.001). The extract exhibited anti-inflammatory effect at a dose of
170 mg/kg (P <.05. There were antioxidant-active phenolic, flavonoid, and flavanol
components in the extract. Linum usitatissimum L, which may be employed as an analgesic
ijppr.humanjournals.com
Citation: Mohd Afsahul Kalam et al. Ijppr.Human, 2024; Vol. 30 (4): 268-282.
280
and anti-inflammatory drug, exhibited dose-dependent analgesic effect that was somewhat
similar to morphine [42].
CONCLUSION:
Flaxseeds are well known Unani drug used for various ailments since long time. The
nutritional composition present in the flaxseed makes it more useful. Information from
flaxseeds clearly shows that they are the highest source of lignans and α-linolenic acid.
Antioxidants, soluble fibre, and premium protein can also be obtained from it in significant
amounts. The role of flaxseed lignans and ω-3 fatty acid in reducing the risks associated with
cardiac and coronary disease. Because flaxseed has such a vast potential for preventing
and/or treating lowering the risk of several serious illnesses, such as type II diabetes,
depression, obesity, hypertension, constipation, peptic ulcers, and other illnesses. Thus, the
claims made by the conventional medical system have been validated by scientific research.
This makes it seem worthwhile to conduct more thorough clinical research to fully
investigate the therapeutic potential of this medication in order to establish it as a standard
treatment. This review provides extensive information on the medicinal or therapeutic uses of
Alsī (Flaxseed) and supports the potential of Alsī as a multifaceted Unani drug that needs
further research.
Acknowledgement
The authors are very thankful to Deputy director RRIUM Srinagar for providing necessary
facilities at the institute. We are also thankful to the librarian for providing best possible
facilities to carry out present review work in RRIUM Srinagar, University of Kashmir.
Conflict of interest
The authors declare no any conflict of interest.
REFERENCES:
1. Jabeen A, Khan AA, Alam T, Maaz M, Sheikh HM. Flaxseed/Tukhm-E-Katan (Linum Usitatissimum
Linn.): A Review. Journal of Pharmaceutical and Scientific Innovation. 2014; 3(5): 401-409.
https://doi.org/10.7897/2277-4572.035183
2. Amit J. Jhala and Linda M. Hall. Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.): Current Uses and Future Applications.
Australian Journal of basic and Applied Sciences. 2010; 4(9): 4304-4312.
3. Rashid N, Dar PA, Ahmad HN, Rather SA. Alsi (Linum usitatissimum (Linn.): A potential multifaceted
Unani drug. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry. 2018; 7(5): 3294-3300.
4. Banerjee K and Thiagarajan P. Linum usitatissimum L. (Flax) plant and its seed oil a review. Journal of
Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences. 2015; 8(4): 623-628.
ijppr.humanjournals.com
Citation: Mohd Afsahul Kalam et al. Ijppr.Human, 2024; Vol. 30 (4): 268-282.
281
5. Basch E, Bent S, Collins J, Dacey C, Hammerness P, Harrison M, et al. Flax and flaxseed oil (Linum
usitatissimum): A review by the natural standard research collaboration. Journal of the Society for Integrative
Oncology. 2007; 05(03): 92-105. https://doi.org/10.2310/7200.2007.005
6. Azam Khan M. Muḥīt-i-A‘zam. Vol-IV. New Delhi: Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine
(CCRUM), Department of AYUSH. 2018; 82-84.
7. Ghanī MN. Khazā’in al-Adwiya. Vol-II. New Delhi: Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine,
Department of AYUSH. 2010: 138-141.
8. Martinchik AN, Baturin AK, Zubtsov VV, Molofeev VL. Nutritional value and functional properties of
flaxseed. Voprosy paranoia. 2012;81(3):4–10.
9. Przybylski R. Flax oil and high linolenic oils. In Bailey’s Industrial Oil and Fat Products. Wiley. 2005;
https://doi.org/10.1002/047167849x.bio010
10. Purushothaman D, Brown WY, Vanselow BA, Quinn K, Wu SB. Flaxseed oil supplementation alters the
expression of inflammatory-related genes in dogs. Genetics and Molecular Research: GMR. 2014; 13(3): 5322–
5332. https://doi.org/10.4238/2014.july.24.11
11. Kaithwas G, Mukerjee A, Kumar P, Majumdar DK. Linum usitatissimum (linseed/flaxseed) fixed oil:
antimicrobial activity and efficacy in bovine mastitis. Inflammopharmacology. 2011; 19(1): 45–52.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10787-010-0047-3
12. Mueed A, Shibli S, Jahangir M, Jabbar S, Deng Z. A comprehensive review of flaxseed (Linum
usitatissimum L.): health-affecting compounds, mechanism of toxicity, detoxification, anticancer and potential
risk. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition. 2023; 63(32): 11081–11104.
https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2022.2092718
13. Goyal A, Sharma V, Upadhyay N, Gill S, Sihag M. Flax and flaxseed oil: an ancient medicine & modern
functional food. Journal of Food Science and Technology. 2014 51(9): 1633–1653.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s13197-013-1247-9
14. Zhang Y, Zhou Y, Song Z, Jin J, Tang J, Wang X, et al. A chemometrics approach comparing
characteristics and free radical scavenging capacity of flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) oils obtained from seeds
and cakes with different extraction methods. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture. 2021; 101(13):
5359–5367. https://doi.org/10.1002/jsfa.11184
15. Kasote DM. Flaxseed phenolics as natural antioxidants. International Food Research Journal. 2013; 20(1):
27-34.
16. Mozaffarian D and Wu JHY. Omega-3 fatty acids and cardiovascular disease. Journal of the American
College of Cardiology. 2011; 58(20): 2047–2067. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2011.06.063
17. Kabiruddin M. Makhzan al-Mufridat (Kitāb al-Advia). 3rd ed. New Delhi: Idara Kitab-ul-Shifa. 2014; 76,
77.
18. Khare CP. Indian Medicinal Plants: An Illustrated Dictionary, 1st edition. New Delhi; Springer Science +
Business Media, Pvt. Ltd. 2007; 376, 377.
19. Said HM. Hamdard Pharmacopoeia of Eastern Medicine. New Delhi: Sri Satguru Publications, A Division
of Indian Books Centre. 1997; 397, 398.
20. Anonymous. Standardization of Single Drugs of Unani Medicine. P-II. New Delhi: Central Council for
Research in Unani Medicine, Department of AYUSH. 1992; 276-280.
21. Bhavana KB, Babu AN, Lakshmi JN, Deepthi B, Kavya G. A review on pharmacological properties and
laboratory outcomes of flaxseed diet (Linum usitatissimum). International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Review and Research. 2021; 70(1): 100-105. https://doi.org/10.47583/ijpsrr.2021.v70i01.013
22. Kabiruddin M. Bayāz-i-Kabīr. Vol-II. New Delhi: Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine,
Department of AYUSH. 2008; 236, 237.
23. Safiuddin Ali S. Unani Adviya Mufrada. 7th ed. New Delhi: National Council for Promotion of Urdu
Language. 2013; 42, 43.
24. Anonymous. Qarābādīn-i-Sarkārī. 3rd ed. New Delhi: Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine,
Department of AYUSH. 2006; 43.
25. Kirtikar KR & Basu BD. Indian Medicinal Plants. 2nd Edition. Vol. IV. New Delhi; Periodical Experts
Book Agency. 2012; 408-410.
ijppr.humanjournals.com
Citation: Mohd Afsahul Kalam et al. Ijppr.Human, 2024; Vol. 30 (4): 268-282.
282
26. Al-Bytar I. Al-Jami Li-Mufradat al-Advia wa al-Aghziya, Vol. IV. (Urdu Translation). New Delhi: Central
Council for Research in Unani Medicine, Department of AYUSH. 2003; 133, 134.
27. Kabiruddin M. Ilmul Adwiya Nafīsī (translate nafīsī). New Delhi: Aijaz Publishing House. 2007; 239, 240.
28. Nabi MG. Makhzan al-Mufridat wa al-Murakkabat. 3rd ed. New Delhi: Central Council for Research in
Unani Medicine; 2007: 44.
29. Anonymous. National Formulary of Unani Medicine. P-II, Vol-I. New Delhi: Central Council for Research
in Unani Medicine Department of AYUSH. 2007; 35, 136, 138, 139.
30. Anonymous. National Formulary of Unani Medicine. P-V. New Delhi: Central Council for Research in
Unani Medicine Department of AYUSH. 2008; 12, 84, 85, 116.
31. Anonymous. National Formulary of Unani Medicine. P-VI, Vol-I. New Delhi: Central Council for Research
in Unani Medicine Department of AYUSH. 2011; 62, 65, 77.
32. Akbar S, Baig MN, and Amruta D. Flaxseeds: A Review. International Journal of Innovative Research in
Technology. 2021; 8(3): 2349-6002.
33. Thompson LU, Cunnane SC. Flaxseed in human nutrition. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture.
2005; 85(10): 1784. https://doi.org/10.1002/jsfa.2233
34. Herchi W, Arrae-Roman D, Boukhchina S, Kallel H. Segura-Carretero A, Fernandez-Gutierrez A. A review
of the methods used in the determination of flaxseed components. African Journal of biotechnology. 2012;
11(4): Pp 724-731
35. Rath BP and Pradhan D. Antidepressant Activity of Linum usitatissimum Extract. International Journal of
Pharmacognostic and Phytochemical Research. 2012; 1(2): 29-32.
36. Ghule AE, Jadhav SS and Bodhankar SL. Effect of ethanolic extract of seeds of Linum usitatissimum
(Linn.) in hyperglycemia associated ROS production in PBMNCs and pancreatic tissue of alloxan induced
diabetic rats. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease. 2012; 2(5): 405–410. https://doi.org/10.1016/s2222-
1808(12)60088-7
37. Zanwar AA, Hegde MV and Bodhankar SL. In vitro antioxidant activity of Ethanolic extract of Linum
usitatissimum. Pharmacologyonline 2010; 1: 683-696
38. Madhi E and Fariba K. Evaluate the possible anti-peptic ulcer action of the water of Linum usitatissimum.
Life Science Journal 2013; 10(3): 509-511.
39. Thakur G, Mitra A, Pal K, Rousseau D. Effect of flaxseed gum on reduction of blood glucose and
cholesterol in type 2 diabetic patients. International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition. 2009; 60(6): 126-
36. https://doi.org/10.1080/09637480903022735
40. Farahpour MR, Taghikhani H, Habibi M. Wound healing activity of flaxseed Linum Usitatissimum L. in
rats. African Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology. 2011; 5(21): 2386-2389.
41. Narender BR, Tejaswini S, Sarika M, Karuna N, Shirisha R, Priyanka S. Antibacterial and Antifungal
activities of Linum Usitatissimum (Flax seeds). International Journal of Pharmacy Education and Research.
2016; 3(2): 4-8.
42. Rafieian Kopaei M, Shakiba A, Sedighi M, Bahmani M. The analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity of
Linum usitatissimum in Balb/c mice. Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine. 2017;
22(4): 892–896. https://doi.org/10.1177/2156587217717416.
