This page is not a complete collection of research, but it highlights select scientific studies explaining why we choose the natural products we do. While we use many approaches beyond Flax Hull Lignans to support health, this page focuses specifically on Flax Hull Lignan research. If any link is unavailable, email us at info@aidshivawareness.org—we maintain offline copies of all listed studies.

Health Benefits of Flax Lignans

Why enterolactone & enterodiol matter

Original African Study Downloadable PDFs

African Jar

Sample of Flax Hull Lignans from African Study

ARAI Studies Results

We are a non-profit organization. We are not scientists. We are hands-on, working with people who are sick and unwilling to wait for science to come up with an answer. We love science, but sometimes trials take decades.

We hosted 3 anecdotal studies run by nurses. The purpose of the studies were to help us decide if the flax hull lignans really worked so that we could make a decision on whether or not to incorporate them into our programs. We were beyond surprised and impressed with the results.

Rounds 1 & 2: Participants used 1 scoop per day mixed in water, cereal, or foods and completed 30/60/90-day reports (no medication or lifestyle changes during that time). During Round 1, 15% experienced constipation from the fiber; they increased water or dropped to 1 scoop/day. 76% reported some positive response within 30 days, 91% within 90 days. Reported changes included tumor size reduction, improved blood sugar/insulin needs, decreased HIV/AIDS symptoms, better energy, and improved CD4/viral load trends. 10% reported no change.

Round 2: Everyone used 1 scoop/day for 90 days. Results matched Round 1, with 55% reporting positive response in the first 30 days, 90% by 90 days, and 0% constipation issues.

Across Rounds 1 & 2, dramatic improvements seen in the first 30 days were generally maintained through 60 and 90 days; most changes that were going to occur in 90 days happened in the first 30.

Round 3 (Durban & Piet Retief, South Africa; Swaziland): 1 scoop/day for adults, ½ scoop/day for children ≤12. All 100 were HIV-positive; 75% had AIDS-related symptoms (e.g., cancer, thrush, fatigue, weakness, swollen glands). 64% reported health changes within 30 days; 97% by 90 days. The strong nutritional profile likely supported weight/height gains and recovery from multiple symptoms.

Conclusion: After 3 rounds, we are confident flax hull lignans can support immune health as originally hoped.

HIV & AIDS Research & Testimonials

Karen – AIDS, USA

When found in March 2004, Karen was bedridden in hospice care. Doctors had given up hope. Within weeks of starting the flax lignan program, she was walking, unloading trucks, and living independently. Her viral load dropped to non-detectable, she regained her strength, and eventually got married with a new lease on life.

Alan – HIV Positive, Georgia

  • Before flax: Viral Load = 135,000, CD4 = 220
  • After flax: Viral Load = Undetectable, CD4 = 470
  • 30 Days: More energy, better appetite. Able to rake leaves using less Ativan.
  • 60 Days: VL non-detectable, highest T-cell count.
  • 90 Days: Still non-detectable.

Tom – Heart Problems, USA

Patient had suffered a heart attack and had triple bypass surgery. Participated in trial by taking flax hull lignans and reports a marked decrease in pain. Reports a drop in cholesterol by 30 points and has required a decrease in blood pressure medication. All coronary arteries remain free of any blockage.

Submitted by: M. Whaley, RN

Alan – HIV Positive, Fayetteville, GA USA

  • Before flax lignans: Viral Load = 135,000, CD4 = 220
  • After flax lignans: Viral Load = Undetectable, CD4 = 470
  • 30 Days: More energy and better appetite. Able to rake leaves using less Ativan.
  • 60 Days: VL non-detectable, T-cells up 470; highest to date.
  • 90 Days: Continues with non-detectable VL. Feeling good. Status: will continue taking flax.

Submitted by: M. Whaley, RN

Melinda – Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (Right Breast), Charlottesville, VA USA

Lumpectomy November. Second lump in same breast the following February. Lumpectomy March. Nodes removed believed to be cancer free, but closer exam revealed tumors. Has not done resection of nodes. Did flax program and tumors disappeared. No chemo. No radiation.

Continued to be cancer free and stopped taking flax. A year after the program ended, her tumors reappeared. Started back on flax and tumors are once again gone.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are flax lignans?
Lignans are phytonutrients in plants—flaxseed is the richest known source, with up to 800x more than other plants. They are known to boost immunity and have anti-cancer, anti-viral, and antioxidant effects.
2. Can’t I just grind flax seeds?
No. Ground flax seeds go rancid quickly and only offer a fraction of the benefit. The concentrated lignans we use are shelf-stable and provide the equivalent benefit of 70 teaspoons of flaxseed in just one teaspoon. (We recommend only using FlaxLignanHealth.com or North Dakota Innovations)
3. What about flax oil with lignans?
Flax oil contains almost no lignans and lacks digestive co-factors. It's useful for fatty acids but not lignan content.
4. Does heat destroy lignans?
Enzymes may be killed, but the immunity-boosting benefits remain. Great for baking.
5. Are flax lignans safe?
Yes, for most healthy individuals. Those with hormone-related conditions or pregnant/nursing women should consult a doctor.
6. What other nutrients are in flax lignans?
Each scoop (½ tbsp) contains 2.15g dietary fiber and 1.4g protein.
7. Can someone with breast cancer take flax lignans?
See our breast cancer research links above and consult your doctor. Many studies show potential benefits, but individual research is encouraged.