Skip to main content
lignan

lignan

1 7.4
A natural substance in plants, especially seeds and grains, that may be good for health
  • noun
  • /ˈlɪɡnən/
  • Specialized
: lignano
  • Research suggests that incorporating lignans into your diet may help improve heart health.
  • lignan-rich flaxseed
  • source of lignans
  • lignan-rich

Examples

  • Whole-grain versions are a must over refined pastas because they contain more fiber to fill you up, additional B vitamins that are crucial to energy metabolism, and disease-fighting compounds such as lignans.

    Blog text (32)
  • What he found was that in these plants, lignan biosynthesis was restored.

  • "But we analytical chemists are way behind on methodology for lignans."

    Academic text (1998)
  • A less studied group, the lignans, comes from flax, rye, and some nuts and beans.

    Academic text (1998)
  • Daily consumption of lignans can provide significant health benefits, particularly for hormone-related conditions.

  • Foods rich in lignans, such as flaxseeds, are associated with a lower risk of certain cancers.

Synonyms

phytonutrient
vslignan
  • Specialized
1 6.8

Natural substances in plants that help protect your health when you eat them

is a specific kind of such compound found mainly in seeds and grains

Surface Forms

lignan singular
lignans plural

Etymology

Lignan comes from the Latin root lignum, which means 'wood', because scientists first found these chemicals in woody parts of plants. So, the name helps you remember that lignans are natural plant compounds often found in seeds and grains.