Evidence supporting the use of: Flaxseed
For the health condition: PMS (general)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Flaxseed has been investigated for its potential role in alleviating symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), primarily due to its high content of phytoestrogens (lignans) and essential fatty acids (notably alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3). These compounds are thought to influence hormonal balance and inflammation, which are both implicated in PMS. Several small clinical trials and observational studies have examined the effects of flaxseed supplementation on menstrual symptoms. For example, some studies have reported that flaxseed consumption may help regulate menstrual cycles and modestly reduce symptoms such as breast pain (mastalgia), which can be part of the PMS symptom cluster. However, robust, large-scale randomized controlled trials specifically targeting PMS are lacking, and the available evidence is not strong or consistent enough to draw firm conclusions. The biological plausibility exists—since lignans may modulate estrogen metabolism and omega-3s may reduce inflammation—but the direct translation to meaningful symptom relief for PMS remains uncertain. Overall, while there is some scientific rationale and preliminary data supporting flaxseed’s use for PMS, the current evidence base is limited and not definitive, resulting in a low-to-moderate evidence rating for this indication.

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