In vitro XANTHINE OXIDASE INHIBITORY POTENTIAL OF FLAXSEED OIL

Flaxseed oil, also known as linseed oil, is made from flax seeds that have been ground and pressed to release their natural oil. This oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and has been associated with numerous health benefits. Food-grade flaxseed oil is cold-pressed, obtained without solvent extraction, in the absence of oxygen, and marketed as edible flaxseed oil. Linseed oil is in demand as a dietary supplement, as a source of α-Linolenic acid. Xanthine oxidase is a key enzyme responsible for hyperuricemia, a predisposing factor for Gout & oxidative stress related diseases. This study aimed to find out the in vitro xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity and to screen the phytochemical constituent in it. In vitro xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity of flaxseed oil was assessed by using Allopurinol as standard which is a known inhibitor of xanthine oxidase. The results demonstrated that the inhibitory potential of Flaxseed oil on xanthine oxidase is in a concentration dependent manner. However the inhibitory activity was lower when compared to the standard drug allopurinol. The phytochemical screening showed that the oil contains alkaloids, flavonoids, phlobatannins, carbohydrates and terpenoids. The advantage of Flaxseed oil over Allopurinol is the minimal amount of side effects or even null side effects since it is a natural product. The study revealed the potent xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity of flaxseed oil. Further detailed investigations are needed to develop it as an alternative medicine for the treatment of Gout.