Synopsis

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

Lignans are a group of phytoestrogens—plant-derived compounds that have weak estrogen-like activity in the body. Their use for premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is primarily rooted in traditional and naturopathic practices rather than robust scientific evidence. Historically, lignan-rich foods such as flaxseed have been recommended by herbalists and alternative medicine practitioners to help balance female hormones and alleviate PMS symptoms such as breast tenderness, mood swings, and bloating. The rationale stems from the ability of phytoestrogens to modulate estrogen activity, which is thought to be a factor in PMS. Some small studies and anecdotal reports suggest that diets high in phytoestrogens may help stabilize hormonal fluctuations, potentially reducing PMS severity. However, clinical trials specifically investigating lignans for PMS are limited, and the available evidence is often indirect—extrapolated from studies on general phytoestrogen benefits rather than lignans themselves. Most mainstream medical organizations do not recommend lignans specifically for PMS due to insufficient high-quality evidence. In summary, while the use of lignans for PMS is supported by traditional practices and some plausible mechanisms, scientific validation remains limited. The evidence base is weak (rated 2/5), relying mostly on historical use, theoretical benefits, and small, non-definitive studies rather than large, well-controlled clinical trials.

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