Lignan Supplementation Drastically Cuts Hot Flashes

LOCARNO, SwitzerlandPlant lignan supplementation may significantly help postmenopausal conditions including severe hot flashes, according to new research published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition. The trial, Pharmacokinetics and Bioavailability of Plant Lignan 7-Hydroxymatairesinol and Effects on Serum Enterolactone and Clinical Symptoms in Postmenopausal Women: A Single-Blinded, Parallel, Dose-Comparison Study," suggests lignans may help women manage postmenopausal conditions without the side effects associated with hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

Not only was the HMRlignan quickly absorbed into the blood, but it was metabolized effectively into Enterolactone, which is the form of the ingredient that is useful in humans,"  said principal researcher Jay Udani, M.D., of Medicus Research. "The product was well tolerated throughout the study and these results point toward this product being of potential benefit to women looking to reduce their hot flashes."

For the study, women ages 50 to 75 received either 36 mg/d (low-dose) or 72 mg/d dose (high-dose) of HMRlignan (from Linnea SA) for eight weeks. Subjects were not receiving HRT. The high-dose group recorded a 55-percent reduction in four weeks and 80 percent fewer severe hot flashes at week eight. Researchers found no adverse events nor estrogenic effects. Researchers noted subjects reached maximum plasma levels of Enterolactone in 24 hours, which suggested the ingredient is appropriate for a once daily dosage.

The results of this study hold promise for the potential of a low-dose lignan supplement such HMRlignan to aid in relief of the symptoms associated with menopause without the adverse effects of HRT," said Donald Brown, N.D., managing director of Natural Product Research Consultants.