Flax, Flower
(also referred to as...)
Common Flax, Flax Seed, Linseed, Lint Bells, Winterlien
Latin Name: Linum usitatissimum
Family: Linaceae
Description
This tiny grain dates incredibly far back in history. It was found as cloth in Egyptian tombs and is the "fine linen" referred to in the Bible. This plant is used in its entirety, from cloth to food to medicine. As Mahatma Gandhi once said, "Wherever flax seeds become a regular food item among the people, there will be better health."
In the kitchen, one tablespoon (15mL) ground seed replaces one egg, making an excellent baking alternative for vegan vegetarians.
Ailments / Situations Where Used The seeds are very mucilaginous and are used with great success in pulmonary (lung) conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, pleurisy or any inflammatory mucous membrane condition. They are good for urinary complaints, as they are lubricating and very soothing. In bronchitis with a lot of catarrh, they can help in the expectoration of mucous and have a relaxing effect on the bronchioles.
The seeds are extremely high in soluble fibre (mucilage) and are very effective as a laxative that does not gripe too much (cause bowel pains) and is used for a sluggish or torpid liver. The soluble fibre in the seeds has been shown to significantly lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
Applied externally, flax seeds are used for chest complaints, boils, abcesses, burns and ulcers.
The oil made from the seeds contains linoleic and alpha-linolenic essential fatty acids (EFAs). EFAs produce hormone-like prostaglandins that are vital for many functions of the body. They help such conditions as skin disorders, menstrual problems, rheumatoid arthritis and arteriosclerosis. The EFAs help prevent buildup of fatty deposits in the tissues and are a great source of cancer-fighting isoflavones. For more information, see Food Supplements -- Essential Fatty Acids.
Source
Seed, oil derived from seed.
Preparations
To obtain the mucilage, soak the seeds in water for several hours, then take as is, or heat. Eat the seeds when finished.
Use several tablespoons flaxssed oil daily.
Infusion: Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of crushed seeds and take 3 times daily.
Contraindications / Precautions / Warnings
Do not take artists' linseed oil internally.
Flaxseed oil deteriorates quickly. Use only fresh, cold-pressed, organic oils when possible.
The seeds contain traces of prussic acid which can be toxic in large doses. However, there has yet to be a reported poisoning from flax-based prussic acid. Do not exceed stated doses.
Ailment / Situation Listing
See also
Food Supplements -- Essential Fatty Acids
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