A comprehensive review of the health benefits of flaxseed oil in relation to its chemical composition and comparison with other omega-3-rich oils

Abstract

Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L) is an ancient perennial plant species regarded as a multipurpose plant owing to its richness in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) including α-linolenic acid (ALA). The extensive biochemical analysis of flaxseed resulted in the identification of its bioactive, i.e., lignans with potential application in the improvement of human health. Flaxseed oil, fibers, and lignans exert potential health benefits including reduction of cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis, diabetes, cancer, arthritis, osteoporosis, and autoimmune and neurological disorders that have led to the diversification of flaxseed plant applications. This comprehensive review focuses on flaxseed oil as the major product of flaxseed with emphasis on the interrelationship between its chemical composition and biological effects. Effects reviewed include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, antiulcer, anti-osteoporotic, cardioprotective, metabolic, and neuroprotective. This study provides an overview of flaxseed oil effects with the reported action mechanisms related to its phytochemical composition and in comparison, to other PUFA-rich oils. This study presents the most updated and comprehensive review summarizing flaxseed oil’s health benefits for the treatment of various diseases. Graphical Abstract

Linseed Oil-Based Oleogel Vehicles for Hydrophobic Drug Delivery—Physicochemical and Applicative Properties

“…Linseed oil is a colorless or slightly yellow liquid serving as a rich source of fatty acids, primarily alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), Pharmaceutics 2024, 16, 600 2 of 16 linoleic acid (LA), and oleic acid (OA), constituting approximately 90% of its composition. In addition, it contains phytosterols, tocopherols (vitamin E), and other biologically active substances [13][14][15]. Beeswax, on the other hand, is primarily a mixture of fatty acid esters (e.g., palmitic acid, myristic acid) and polyhydroxyl alcohols (e.g., triterpenes, aliphatic alcohols), alongside other components such as carboxylic acids and vitamins.…”

Normal fat intake with high MUFA content and an appropriate SFA/MUFA/PUFA ratio improved the health of rats

“…The profile of fatty acids in rice oil is relatively balanced, while flaxseed oil contains high levels of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). [14][15][16] When these oils are mixed in appropriate proportions, the resulting oil has a unique fatty acid composition and may have beneficial effects on human health.…”

Expression of FAD and SAD Genes in Developing Seeds of Flax Varieties under Different Growth Conditions

“…Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) seed is one of the richest plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for humans and prevent the onset and progression of many diseases [1][2][3][4]. Flax varieties differ significantly in the fatty acid (FA) composition of the oil, especially in the content of linolenic acid (omega-3) [5][6][7].…”