Frequently Asked Questions

Lignans are naturally occurring plant compounds found in the hulls of seeds, grains, and some trees. They are phytoestrogens — plant-based compounds that interact with hormone receptors in the body — and are among the most potent antioxidants found in nature. Lignans are best known for their ability to help regulate cortisol and other hormone levels, making them a popular natural supplement for dogs with Cushing's disease as well as for human health.

Studies indicate that phytoestrogens (lignans) can help balance hormones. They are powerful antioxidants that offer immune system support and studies have reported lignans can help support heart, hair, and reproductive organ health. For info on lignans for people, visit our Health Benefits Page

General dosing guidelines for adults vary based on the purpose of supplementation. We recommend consulting with a healthcare provider to determine the right dosage for your specific health goals.

Yes. Lignans and melatonin are natural compounds with well-established safety records. Many dogs with Cushing's disease remain on them for years. Regular veterinary check-ups and periodic cortisol testing are recommended to monitor progress and adjust dosing over time.

The flaxseed contains two parts: the hull and the embryo. We separate the hull from the embryo to produce pure flaxseed hulls. The lignans are found only in the hulls. Thus, the hulls are more concentrated with lignan than whole flaxseed. Consuming flaxseed lignans provides the benefits of whole flaxseed without having to eat several pounds of it. Flaxseed hulls also have other components: they contain fiber and antioxidants. We do not use chemicals to concentrate the lignans. The lignans are concentrated solely by virtue of the hulls' separation from the embryo. Some of our product descriptions say “concentrated lignans” and others say “flaxseed hulls.” They are both the same.

HMR Lignans come from the Norwegian spruce tree and are chemically extracted from the pine knots of the Spruce tree. The flaxseed lignans are an SDG lignan and they are mechanically separated from the flaxseed hull. Flaxseed lignans contain fiber and HMR lignans do not. Both HMR lignans and flaxseed lignans have the same effect in the body; they are both converted to enterodiol and enterolactone in the body. They are both phytoestrogens that possess hormone balancing properties and studies have shown they both work equally well.

This is because of the type of flaxseed used. Sometimes we are able to obtain golden flaxseed and sometimes we are able to obtain brown flaxseed. They both have the same nutrient content and they both have the same shelf life. They are both high quality flaxseeds grown in North America. Because this is a natural product, the color may vary.

The lignan content in Flaxseed hulls can vary between 3-5%. This depends on growing season and growing conditions. We have offered 630 mg, 690mg capsules and 750 mg capsules. The capsules of flaxseed hulls are 100% pure flaxseed hulls. There are no chemicals used in the separation from the seed embryo and nothing else has been added. Therefore the lignan content in each capsule can be from 3% (18 mg) to 5% (31.5 mg) in the 630 mg capsules and 22.5 mg to 37.5 mg in the 750 mg capsules. We use 30 mg as a general rule of thumb since that is an average of 4% of the 750 mg capsule.

Our flaxseed hulls have a shelf life in excess of 3 years. The actual shelf life is much longer, but we list 2 years from the manufacture date on the bottles to be conservative. You do not need to refrigerate our flaxseed hulls. This is different than whole flaxseed. Whole flaxseed can last many years without refrigeration until you grind it. Once you expose the embryo to the air, you must refrigerate it, and even then the shelf life is only 1 year. This is one of the many reasons our flaxseed lignans are preferred over regular flaxseed.

Brevail is a brand name from our competitor. They offer a product that is made from flaxseed hulls, but the lignan is chemically extracted from the hulls, as opposed to our product, which contains pure flaxseed hulls that have been mechanically separated from the whole flaxseed. We do not use any chemicals in the processing of our flaxseed hulls. Brevail has some added compounds for color and fillers and contains 50 mg of standardized lignan per capsule; our flaxseed lignan capsules range from 15-35 mg of lignans. There are only 30 capsules in a bottle of Brevail and there are 90 capsules in our flaxseed lignans. When comparing the total number of mg in each bottle, our cost ends up being lower, and when you buy money saving two packs from us, the difference is even greater.

Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism) is a condition in which a dog's body produces too much cortisol, the primary stress hormone. It is most commonly caused by a benign tumor on the pituitary gland (pituitary-dependent Cushing's) or, less commonly, a tumor on one of the adrenal glands. It is one of the most common hormonal disorders in middle-aged and older dogs. Common signs include increased thirst and urination, hair loss, a pot-bellied appearance, and lethargy. For a full overview of symptoms, visit www.cushingsindogs.com/symptoms.

Every case varies, but it is usually recommended to use lignans and melatonin in conjunction with one another because each supplement inhibits different enzymes needed to produce cortisol. Inhibiting these enzymes can effectively lower heightened cortisol levels.

Some veterinarians recommend one or the other, and some recommend both conventional meds (chemotherapy drugs), in conjunction with holistic methods. It is usually okay to give both, but this depends on the dog and case severity, and it is best to try to space out the regimen as best as you can. We always recommend consulting your veterinarian for help with dosage, how best to administer your regimen, and which combinations they suggest. If you wish to ween your dog off the medication, you'll want to introduce the new supplements slowly while gradually decreasing the dosage of the medications because it takes time to build up the lignan in the body. Again, seek your vet's advice on this matter.

The recommended dosage for dogs is 1-2 mg per pound of body weight; however, we always recommend consulting your veterinarian as well. For 10 lb dogs, give 10-20 mg of SDG lignan or HMR lignan daily. For 20 lb dogs, give 20-40 mg of SDG or HMR lignan daily. For 40 lb dogs, give 40-80 mg of SDG lignan or HMR lignan daily. The capsules can be opened and sprinkled onto dog food. The capsules can also be placed in a pill pocket, a piece of meat or cheese, etc. If your dog is taking flaxseed lignans, a probiotic like yogurt can help with absorption. Open the capsule and sprinkle the powder into a small amount of yogurt with live and active cultures.

Lignans work by inhibiting specific enzymes — particularly 3-beta-HSD and 5-alpha-reductase — that are involved in the production of cortisol. By reducing the activity of these enzymes, lignans can help lower elevated cortisol levels naturally. They are often used alongside melatonin, which inhibits a different enzyme in the same cortisol production pathway. Using both together addresses the process from two angles.

Melatonin is often used to address anxiety, hair loss, or Canine Cushings. The goal of melatonin is not to put the dog to sleep, but to correct hormone imbalances (i.e. reduce heightened cortisol levels). Lowering the stress hormone cortisol can naturally help to manage Cushing's symptoms. In managing these symptoms, this can potentially result in more restful sleep. It can take a brief period of time for the dog to adjust to the melatonin, therefore their activity levels may lower, but most customers report activity levels returning to normal after a couple weeks.

Both lignans and melatonin have a strong safety profile and are generally very well tolerated. Melatonin may cause mild drowsiness when first introduced, particularly at higher doses. This typically resolves within a few weeks as the dog adjusts. If your dog experiences any unusual reactions, discontinue use and consult your veterinarian. Long-term use of both supplements is considered safe when used at recommended dosages.

Most dog owners begin to notice improvement within 6–12 weeks of consistent daily supplementation. Common early signs of improvement include reduced thirst and urination, improved energy, and gradual hair regrowth. Full results can take 3–6 months. Results vary depending on the severity of the condition, the dog's age, and whether conventional medications are also being used.

All of our capsules can be opened and the contents mixed directly into food. The powder is nearly tasteless and odorless, making it easy to mix into wet food, broth, or a small amount of a high-value treat. Many dog owners also use pill pockets successfully.

Our lignans do not need to be refrigerated. It is simply recommended to store them, and your other supplements, in a cool, dry place. The only product we offer that must be refrigerated is our SAMe for liver support. These tablets are enteric coated and the bottle requires refrigeration after opening.

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Yes, though it is far less common in cats than in dogs. Feline Cushing's disease is most often associated with insulin-resistant diabetes. If  you suspect your cat may have elevated cortisol levels, consult your veterinarian for proper testing and diagnosis.

For cats under 10 lbs, we recommend 1/2 mg of melatonin every 12 hours. For cats over 10 lbs, 1 mg of melatonin every 12 hours, or as directed by a veterinarian. Always consult your veterinarian before starting supplementation.

Melatonin may have a mild calming effect, which can be beneficial for cats that experience anxiety, stress from travel, vet visits, or changes in environment. At the low doses typically recommended for cats, it does not cause heavy sedation.

Yes. Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone that supports several important functions in cats, including healthy sleep-wake cycles, stress and anxiety reduction, immune support, and hormone balance. It is also being explored for its role in supporting coat health and seasonal hair loss in cats.

Melatonin is generally considered safe for cats at appropriate dosages. As with any supplement, we recommend consulting your veterinarian before starting and scheduling periodic check-ins to ensure it continues to be the right fit for your cat.