Group of polyphenols in plant matter
The lignans are a large group of low molecular weight polyphenols found in plants , particularly seeds , whole grains , and vegetables.[ 1] The name derives from the Latin word for "wood".[ 2] Lignans are precursors to phytoestrogens .[ 1] [ 3] They may play a role as antifeedants in the defense of seeds and plants against herbivores .[ 4]
^ a b "Lignans" . Micronutrient Information Center, Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University. 2010. Retrieved 31 July 2017 .
^ From lign- (Latin, "wood") + -an (chemical suffix).
^ Korkina, L; Kostyuk, V; De Luca, C; Pastore, S (2011). "Plant phenylpropanoids as emerging anti-inflammatory agents". Mini Reviews in Medicinal Chemistry . 11 (10): 823–35. doi :10.2174/138955711796575489 . PMID 21762105 .
^ Saleem, Muhammad; Kim, Hyoung Ja; Ali, Muhammad Shaiq; Lee, Yong Sup (2005). "An update on bioactive plant lignans". Natural Product Reports . 22 (6): 696–716. doi :10.1039/B514045P . PMID 16311631 .