Flax or flaxseed is called linseed in some countries, both names refer to the same plant. Flax seeds contain oil, mucilage and protein. The mucilage is soothing to the digestive system having a mild cleansing and laxative action.
Flax seeds and their oil are an excellent source of essential fatty acids, providing omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids in optimum ratios. However, whilst alpha linolenic acid (ALA) and linoleic acid have the potential to provide the important Prostaglandin series 1 and 3 their production relies the ability of the body to convert them successfully.
In some people with inefficient enzyme function, the benefits of flax oil may be limited and they may obtain better levels of the omega oils from fish oil sources.
What it does
- Brain Health: ALA is a source of the omega 3 fatty acid DHA, a major component of the brain. ALA deficiency can lead to low DHA formation in the brain which may be a cause of early senility and poor cognitive function. As the enzymes that allow ALA to be converted to DHA decline with age, it may be better to use fish oils rather than flax oil. Flax also contains linoleic acid, a potential precursor of arachidonic acid, another major structural fatty acid of the brain.
- Skin Health: Essential fats contribute to the overall health of skin as well as ensuring a balance between inflammatory and anti-inflammatory prostaglandins, which is an important factor in inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema.
- Cholesterol: ALA, when metabolised into series 3 prostaglandins, has potent cholesterol lowering effects as well as preventing platelets sticking together.
- Inflammation: The omega 3 and 6 fatty acids in flax oil help produce anti inflammatory prostaglandin series 1 and 3, acting on the joints, skin and digestive system.
- Essential fats help to maintain the integrity of cell walls allowing nutrients to pass into and wastes to pass out of the cell whilst inhibiting the passage of undesirable compounds and invaders.
Potential Uses
| Eczema & dermatitis | Psoriasis | Osteo-arthritis |
| Allergic rhinitis | Prostate problems | Gout |
| Cardiovascular health | Menorrhagia | PMS |
| High blood pressure | Constipation (flaxseeds) | Ulcerative colitis (flaxseeds) |
Flaxseeds are best soaked overnight in water and then added (with the water) to porridge or breakfast muesli. Make sure that you drink plenty of water when using flaxeeds.
Flaxseed oil can be taken as capsules or liquid and is best kept refrigerated to prevent the oil from going rancid. Extra vitamin E is useful to protect the fats in the body.
Linseed is a type of seed that is derived from the flax plant. It is a good source of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and lignans. Linseeds are also gluten-free.
Benefits of Linseed
Linseeds have a number of health benefits, including:
- Heart health: Linseeds are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to improve heart health. Omega-3 fatty acids can help to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.
- Blood sugar control: Linseeds can help to improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes. They do this by slowing down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream.
- Weight loss: Linseeds can help with weight loss by promoting feelings of fullness and reducing appetite.
- Digestive health: Linseeds are a good source of fiber, which is essential for digestive health. Fiber helps to keep the digestive system healthy and regular.
- Skin health: Linseeds are a good source of lignans, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties can help to protect the skin from damage and improve skin health.
- Hair health: Linseeds are a good source of protein, which is essential for hair health. Protein helps to keep hair strong and healthy.
Consequences of Deficiency
A deficiency in linseeds can lead to a number of health problems, including:
- Heart disease: A deficiency in omega-3 fatty acids can increase the risk of heart disease.
- High blood pressure: A deficiency in omega-3 fatty acids can increase the risk of high blood pressure.
- Stroke: A deficiency in omega-3 fatty acids can increase the risk of stroke.
- Diabetes: A deficiency in fiber can make it difficult to control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
- Constipation: A deficiency in fiber can cause constipation.
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): A deficiency in fiber can worsen the symptoms of IBS.
Examples of Products Full of Linseed
Linseeds can be found in a variety of products, including:
- Flaxseed oil: Flaxseed oil is made by pressing linseeds. It is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids.
- Flaxseed meal: Flaxseed meal is made by grinding linseeds. It is a good source of fiber and lignans.
- Flaxseed bread: Flaxseed bread is made with flaxseed meal. It is a good source of fiber and lignans.
- Flaxseed crackers: Flaxseed crackers are made with flaxseed meal. They are a good source of fiber and lignans.
- Flaxseed oil capsules: Flaxseed oil capsules are a convenient way to get omega-3 fatty acids.
How Linseed Oil is Made
Linseed oil is made by pressing linseeds. The linseeds are first ground into a meal, and then the meal is pressed to extract the oil. The oil is then filtered to remove impurities.
Are Linseeds Gluten Free?
Yes, linseeds are gluten-free. They are not made from wheat, barley, or rye, which are the grains that contain gluten.
Are Linseeds Good for You?
Yes, linseeds are good for you. They are a good source of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and lignans. These nutrients have a number of health benefits, including improved heart health, blood sugar control, and weight loss.
Are Linseeds Good for IBS?
Linseeds can be good for IBS, but they can also worsen the symptoms for some people. It is important to experiment with linseeds to see how they affect you. If you have IBS, it is best to start with a small amount of linseeds and gradually increase the amount as tolerated.
Are Linseed and Flaxseed the Same?
Yes, linseed and flaxseed are the same. They are both the seeds of the flax plant.
Can Linseed Oil Spontaneously Combust?
Yes, linseed oil can spontaneously combust if it is not stored properly. Linseed oil should be stored in a cool, dark place in an airtight container. It should also be kept away from heat and flames.
Can Linseed Oil be Used on Leather?
Yes, linseed oil can be used on leather. It helps to protect the leather and make it more durable. However, it is important to use a pure linseed oil that
Cautions
Take flaxseeds separately from drugs as they my slow down absorption.
Generally, there are no side effects or contra-indications from using flaxseeds.
At the time of writing there were no well known negative drug interactions with flaxseeds.
