Flaxseed has long been known for its health-promoting properties – it supports digestion, lowers cholesterol, and its gel-like form brings relief in cases of dry mouth. But that’s just the beginning of the story. The latest research from a team at Wroclaw Medical University suggests that flax extracts may soothe inflammation in the oral cavity – more precisely, in the treatment of oral lichen planus. A chronic, painful disease that most commonly affects women in the perimenopausal period.
Phytotherapy 2.0
In a study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, researchers investigated the effect of extracts from two flaxseed varieties – Jantarol and Szafir – on epithelial cells of the oral mucosa. Under controlled laboratory conditions, these extracts significantly reduced the levels of two key inflammation markers.
But what exactly drives this effect? The leading hypothesis suggests that lignans, natural phenolic compounds found in flaxseeds, play a role. These compounds have a structure similar to that of estrogen, which allows them to bind to estrogen receptors located, among others, in oral mucosa cells.
Menopause, Estrogens, and Inflammation
It is no coincidence that oral inflammation is more frequently observed in women over the age of 50. The drop in estrogen levels can impair the functioning of the mucosa, leading to dryness, burning, pain, and even the development of precancerous lesions. The presence of estrogen receptors in the oral cavity suggests that local hormonal regulation plays a significant role in this area.
This is why plant-based phytoestrogens, such as flax lignans, may have the potential to “mimic” missing estrogens, thus providing protective and anti-inflammatory effects.
Molecular Biology
To confirm this mechanism, the research team conducted computer simulations (so-called molecular docking), which showed that SDG (secoisolariciresinol diglucoside) binds to estrogen receptors in a manner comparable to natural estradiol. Key hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions stabilize the compound in the receptor’s binding site – like a key fitting perfectly into a lock.
Caution: The Dose Matters
The study also confirmed the well-known pharmacological principle of hormesis: in small doses, the extracts acted anti-inflammatorily; in higher doses, they showed toxicity to the cells.
One must always remember the golden rule of pharmacology, formulated by Paracelsus: ‘dosis facit venenum’ – the dose makes the poison emphasizes Prof. Irena Duś-Ilnicka, who led the study.
Other Indications? The Potential Is Expanding
The use of flaxseed extracts may extend beyond treating oral lichen planus. As the researcher reveals:
Our findings indicate that the concentration of flaxseed extracts plays a role in modulating the inflammatory response of epithelial cells in the oral cavity. We are planning further analyses on the antimicrobial potential of these extracts against oral pathogens. The results of these studies may support the treatment of other oral diseases in the future, such as aphthae or candidiasis.
From the Lab to the Dentist’s Office
However, the path to clinical application of such preparations is complex. It requires not only confirmation of efficacy in in vivo studies, but also the development of suitable carriers for active substances.
Every product containing flaxseed extracts intended for topical use in the oral cavity must undergo stability testing and a carrier selection process to ensure durable and effective coverage of the mucosa, explains Prof. Duś-Ilnicka.
What gives hope is the low cost of producing extracts from domestic raw materials, offering the potential for an affordable formulation.
This material is based on an article:
Flaxseed Extracts Impact the Cellular Structure of a Keratinocyte Model for Oral Lichen Planus – A Preliminary Study
Journal of Molecular Sciences
Authors: Irena Duś-Ilnicka, Anna Prescha, Amanda Mordal, Kamila Środa-Pomianek, Beata Sobieszczańska, Monika Bielecka, Żaneta Czyżnikowska, Jakub Szperlik, Adam Matkowski, Małgorzata Radwan-Oczko
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