Phenylpropanoids naturally occurring in plants (lignans are characterized by dimeric C6C3 bodies) with estrogen-like effects, which occur in many woods, here in tree resins. Lignans are also an essential component of sesame oil (Sesamum indicum) and cannabis products.
In the plant, lignans apparently act as antibodies against diseases and infections.
Ligans appear to have a preventive effect on cardiovascular diseases in natural medicine. They have antioxidative, anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects. Apparently they also have a tumour-protective (prostate carcinoma) effect.
The root extract of the American May apple contains the cytotoxic lignan podophyllotoxin which is used as podophyllin for local therapy and serves as the starting substance for the topoisomerase II inhibitor etopside.
Beyond that various other substances are found. Lignans are also used as plant sedatives (sleep lignans).