Preliminary Phytochemical Investigation of the Indian Nutraceutical Plant Linum usitatissimum and GC-MS Analysis

Abstract

Linum usitatissimum L. (flax/linseed) is an important nutraceutical plant found in India that contains lignans, omega-3 fatty acids, mucilage, and phenolic compounds. In the present study, we report a preliminary phytochemical screening of seed extracts prepared by maceration and ultrasound-assisted extraction, along with LC-MS analysis of the ethanolic extract. Preliminary analysis revealed a broad spectrum of secondary metabolites, such as flavonoids, phenolic compounds, lignans, saponins, carbohydrates, and steroids, that support the nutraceutical appeal and medicinal therapeutic properties of the seeds. These findings further support the traditional use of flaxseed in Indian populations' diets and functional food programming.