Secoisolariciresinol-diglucoside
Other names for Secoisolariciresinol-diglucoside
flaxseed sdg
flaxseed sdg lignan
sdg
sdg flax lignan concentrate
sdg flax lignans
sdg flax lignans concentrate
sdg lignan
sdg lignans
sdg lignans flaxseed extract
secoisolariciresinol
secoisolariciresinol diglucoside
secoisolariciresinol diglucosides
secoisolariciresinol diglycoside (sdg) lignan
secoisolariciresinol diglycoside (sdg) lignans
supplying 20 mg sdg flax lignans
Synopsis of Secoisolariciresinol-diglucoside
History
Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG) is a naturally occurring lignan primarily found in flaxseed, and has garnered interest for its potential health benefits throughout history. While the isolated compound itself is a relatively recent discovery, whole flaxseed and flaxseed extracts—rich in SDG—have been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Greeks consumed flaxseed to promote digestive health and alleviate discomfort, while in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine, flaxseed was valued for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
As research into lignans advanced, SDG was identified as a key component responsible for many of flaxseed's therapeutic effects. It is now recognized for its antioxidant and phytoestrogenic properties, which may help balance hormones, support cardiovascular health, and promote overall wellness. SDG’s metabolites, such as enterolactone and enterodiol, are believed to play a role in reducing the risk of hormone-related cancers and improving metabolic health.
Historically, flaxseed has often been combined with other herbs in remedies to enhance its effects. For example, mixtures containing flaxseed, psyllium husk, and fennel were used to aid digestion and relieve constipation. In contemporary herbal practice, SDG-rich flaxseed is frequently included in blends targeting women’s health, such as those supporting menopause or alleviating PMS symptoms, thanks to SDG’s hormone-modulating actions.
Overall, secoisolariciresinol diglucoside stands as a testament to the enduring wisdom of traditional herbal medicine. Its integration into both historical and modern remedies highlights its valuable contributions to natural health and wellness.
Traditional and scientific validation
Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG) is a plant lignan primarily derived from flaxseed, recognized for its potential health-promoting properties. Historically, flaxseed has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, valued for its nutritional content and purported health benefits. Scientific interest in SDG has grown in recent decades, driven by its role as a phytoestrogen and antioxidant.
Several clinical and preclinical studies have explored SDG's effects on human health. Research has indicated that SDG may contribute to cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure and improving lipid profiles. For example, some randomized controlled trials have shown that flaxseed supplementation, a rich source of SDG, can lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure in hypertensive individuals. Additionally, SDG's antioxidant activity may help reduce oxidative stress, which is linked to chronic diseases.
SDG has also been investigated for its potential anticancer properties, particularly regarding hormone-dependent cancers like breast and prostate cancer. Some epidemiological studies suggest an association between higher lignan intake and reduced cancer risk, though direct causality has not been established. Furthermore, research into SDG's effects on diabetes, inflammation, and gut health is ongoing, with some promising preliminary findings.
While these results are encouraging, more rigorous and large-scale clinical studies are needed to fully validate SDG's health benefits. Nevertheless, the current body of evidence supports SDG's positive contributions as a functional ingredient in nutritional products, making it a promising area for future research and application.
Secoisolariciresinol-diglucoside is used for these health conditions
Cancer (prevention) (Scientific)
Cardiovascular Disease (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Secoisolariciresinol-diglucoside is used to support these body systems
Circulatory System (Scientific)
Estrogen (Scientific)
Heart (Scientific)
