Flax (Linum usitatissimum Linaceae)

Other Names: Common Flax, Linseed, Flaxseed

Flax, a slender and elegant herbaceous annual, is grown throughout Europe. Its seeds are widely used in herbal medicine for their oil content, and its stems are used to produce linen cloth. Growing to about one meter, flax features beautiful sky-blue flowers and pea-sized fruits containing ten oil-rich seeds.

Parts for Use

Seeds

1. Flax is harvested in late summer as a major field crop.
2. Fruits are crushed to release seeds full of flaxseed oil.
3. Whole ground seeds and the flour left after oil extraction are used in herbal medicine.

Ingredients

Flax seeds contain 35 to 45% oil, rich in omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids that protect against heart and circulation issues and have anti-inflammatory properties. They also include proteins, mucilage, cholesterol-lowering phytosterols, anti-inflammatory lignans, and cyanogenetic glycosides that act against cramps.

Use in Treatment

Flax seeds serve as a mild laxative, effective for long-term constipation and colon disorders. Their mucilage content soothes irritated digestive tract and intestinal linings, relieving pain. Phytoestrogens in the seeds may benefit certain forms of breast and colon cancer, and there is potential for use in kidney disorders. A 1993 U.S. study demonstrated that flax seeds lower cholesterol in patients with high levels, while a 2002 study confirmed benefits for atherosclerosis and mild menopausal symptoms. Flaxseed flour is traditionally used as a spread for skin conditions like freckles, ulcers, itching, bruising, and joint pain.

Cultivation

Sow flax seeds in spring in well-drained soil in a sunny location.

Preparation and Dosage

For Internal Use (Chronic Constipation, Colon Disorders, Inflammation of the Digestive Tract)

1. Soaking: Place 15 to 20 grams of seeds in a liter of cold water, soak overnight, strain, and drink one glass in the morning before meals and four to five glasses throughout the day, avoiding meal times.
2. Whole Seeds: Take 15 to 20 seeds with a glass of water three times daily.

For External Use (Freckles, Ulcers, Itching, Bruising, Joint Pain)

1. Spread: Mix flaxseed flour with water to form a smooth paste, heat slowly, and apply a 1 cm thick layer on gauze to the affected area once or three times daily while still warm.

Warnings

1. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
2. Avoid flax preparations if you have prostate cancer or intestinal obstruction.
3. Do not combine flax with other medications, laxatives, or stool softeners.
4. Do not use flax during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
5. Avoid unripe seeds or expired flaxseed flour.