The Effect of Drought on the Content of Active Substances of Flax Fibers

Abstract

ABSTRACT The aim of the research was to identify differences in the content of phenolic acids in flax fibers and antioxidant activity of the fibers depending on the soil moisture level during plant growth and flax variety. The experiment involved cultivating flax under controlled conditions with constant levels of irrigation: 25%, 35%, and 45% of field water capacity (FWC). The experiment conducted in the vegetative hall of the Institute of Natural Fibers and Medicinal Plants, National Research Institute in Poland was repeated three times: in 2019, 2020, and 2021. The fibers were extracted from the straw with use of dew retting method. Flax fibers exhibit biological activity. In current study, the impact of drought during flax growth on the antioxidant activity of fibers was determined, as bioactive fibers of linen clothing touching the skin can contribute to neutralizing free radicals formed next to human body. The antioxidant activity of tested fibers was examined using DPPH and FRAP methods. The quantity of phenolic acids may affect the antioxidant capacity of the fibers. The research results showed that the cultivation of flax plants at a soil moisture level of 45% FWC favors the development of antioxidant activity in the fibers.