ABSTRACT

Flaxseed contains 32%–45% as oil, of which 51%–55% is α-linolenic acid. Flax lignan complex (FLC), secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG), and axseed protein hydrolysate (FPH) have been isolated from ax meal, which is devoid of oil. The blood pressure lowering effects of axseed, ax oil, FLC, SDG, and FPH have been discussed in this chapter. Flaxseed in general does not lower blood pressure. There is disagreement in blood pressure lowering effects of ax oil. Even if it lowers, the effect is very small. FLC does not lower blood pressure. SDG is a potent long-acting hypotensive agent in rat given intravenously. The hypotensive activity is mediated through stimulation of guanylate cyclase enzyme and not through nitric oxide synthase. Its blood pressure lowering effect could also be due to its antioxidant and hypoglycemic effect, and this topic has been discussed in detail. Hypoglycemic effect of SDG may lower methylglyoxal (MG) and advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs), which are involved in hypertension. FPH has the potential for lowering blood pressure due to its inhibitory effect on angiotensin-converting enzyme and renin and its antioxidant activity. It also inhibits nitric oxide synthase. Its effects on blood pressure have not been tested. In conclusion, axseed, ax oil, and FLC have practically no effect on blood pressure. FPH has potential for lowering blood pressure. SDG is a long-acting potent blood pressure lowering agent.