Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside

Secoisolariciresinol diglycoside  (SDG) (C32H46O16) is an anti-oxidant phytochemical present in flax, sunflower, sesame and pumpkin seeds. It is a precursor of mammal lignans and a phytoestrogen.

Animal studies have shown SDG can prevent the development of atherosclerosis and diabetes and has beneficial modifying effect on blood and cholesterol levels.

Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside can be isolated from de-fatted (hexane extraction) flaxseed by extraction the lignan polymer precursor with a water/acetone mixture followed by acetone removal and alkaline hydrolysis [1]