BIOLOGICALLY ACTIVE SUBSTANCES OF FLAX AND ITS POTENTIAL APPLICATION IN PHARMACEUTICS AND COSMETOLOGY

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in natural sources of biologically active substances due to the need to develop safe and effective medicines. Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) is one of such promising plants with many beneficial properties. Flax is an ancient plant that has been used in medicine and pharmacy for centuries and millennia. This plant is a valuable source of biologically active substances with a wide range of pharmacological properties. Flax seeds are mentioned in the pharmacopoeias of many countries. This review is focused on the analysis of scientific literature describing the biological activity of different parts of the flax plant and their potential application in pharmaceuticals and cosmetology. The aim of the work is to systematize the existing data on the biological activity of various organs of the flax plant, including seeds, stems and fibers, and to identify the active substances responsible for the therapeutic effects of the plant. The review analyzes the scientific literature on studies that reveal the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of flax-based extracts and preparations. The results show that flax seeds contain a significant amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids, phenolic compounds and other bioactive components that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammatory processes. It was also noted that stem and fiber extracts have potential for the development of new pharmaceutical and cosmetic products due to their properties. Studies on the development of flax-based pharmaceuticals and cosmetic products were analyzed, revealing its potential in various therapeutic applications. The findings of the article emphasize the potential of flax as a source of natural components to create effective medicinal and cosmetic products. It is found that flax extracts can be used as active ingredients in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. The study of pharmacological features of flax opens up opportunities for the development of medicinal preparations and cosmetics that can affect various diseases and improve human health.