Flaxseed/linseed

(Linum Usitatissimum)

Introduction

Flaxseed, Flax or linseed is well known for its use as an oil for preserving cricket bats. Flax is one of the most ancient of all cultivated plants, and is known to have been used by man since 5,000 BC. Both the seeds and seed oil are used medicinally.

Action

Flax seeds contains oil, mucilage and protein. The mucilage is soothing to the digestive system and has mild laxative and cleansing action. The oil contains some linoleic acid, an omega-6 fat, but much higher levels of the omega-3 fatty acid, alpha-linolenic acid. This omega-3 fat has potent anti-inflammatory action on the joints, skin and digestive system.

Uses

Our experts recommend flaxseed or flaxseed oil for the following disorders:

Allergic rhinitis

Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome

Bell's Palsy

Breast cancer

Cysts (breast)

Enlarged prostate BPH

Gout

High blood pressure

Healthy heart program

Menorrhagia

Portal Hypertension

Pre-menstrual syndrome

Psoriasis

Sinusitis

Systemic Lupus Erythematosis

Rheumatoid arthritis

Other Information

Flaxseeds can be an effective remedy for irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, and diverticulitis, and help repair damage done by laxative abuse. They may also be a useful aid cholesterol reduction. Crushed seeds make an effective poultice for the cleansing of boils and other skin infections.

Flax is available as seed (look for organic, golden linseeds), linseed oil – liquid or capsules (look for organic, cold pressed). Store seeds and oil in a cool dry place to prevent the oil from going rancid.

If using the oil, it is advisable to take extra Vitamin E, as this will protect the fats in the body

Cautions

Flaxseeds and flaxseed oil are free from side effects and have no contra-indications. It is however important to drink plenty of water when using the seeds, as they may cause bowel obstruction. Also take seeds separately from medications as they may slow down drug absorption.

Disclaimer

This remedy has been traditionally used for hundreds of years for specific ailments based on Herbal Folklore both eastern and western. No clinical proof has been made.
If you have a serious disease, we suggest that you consult a qualified doctor who understands alternative health care before combining herbal medicine with allopathic medicine. We suggest that you take these remedies based on your faith and knowledge of Ayurveda. For this reason, methods used to prepare these primitive remedies in many cases are omitted. Do not use any remedy described without the advice of a professional health practitioner.