Linseed (or Flax as it is often known) is of the family Linaceae with the Botanical name of Linum usitatissimum. Archaeological digs have discovered flax fibres believed to be from around the year around 34,000BC. Historically Flax was cultivated around Ethiopia and Ancient Egypt.
Flax grows to between one and one and a half metres. Averaging around 1.2 metres in height. The seed capsules, born of light blue flowers contain the apple seed like seeds of the Linseed. Each seed is approximately 7 mm long.
Flax also refers to the fibre of the plant, which can be spun into fabric.
Nutritionally, Linseed is most recognised for its rich source of omega3. It contains significantly more omega3 than fish oil. Linseed is high Carbohydrates, Sugars, Dietary fibre, Protein, Thiamine (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Niacin (Vitamin B3), Pantothenic acid (B5), Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Zinc and Potassium.
Linseed is used throughout the world as a nutritious food additive. It is used as a food additive and is used as a source of oil for both health and industry. As a supplement Linseed may assist with reducing blood pressure and lowering harmful cholesterol. There are studies that have shown linseed’s positive effects on the prevention and treatment of cancer.
Linseed has the potential to decrease the risk of heart disease by decreasing the probability of clots in the arteries. Blood clots lead to potential stroke, pulmonary and vascular disease.
Regular intake of Linseed through direct consumption or through its oil or supplementation can result in increased vitality and increased energy. Linseed can help you feeling calm during stressful periods. Omega3 fatty acids can prevent excess toxic chemicals that are produced by the body under stressful situations.
When taken internally or topically through skin care products, Linseed has shown to provide dramatic change in the texture and quality of the skin. Linseed can assist in repairing skin conditions associated with a lack of omega 3 fatty acids in the diet.
Omega3 fatty acids such as found in linseed have shown to be helpful in relieving the symptoms associated with Arthritis. I personally take Omega3 supplementation daily for Arthritis and I can feel notable difference. It took a couple of weeks before they worked but I didn’t connect my use of them an the reduction in pain until I missed about a weeks worth of doses and the pain returned dramatically.
Linseed oil can aid water retention by assisting the kidneys to flush toxic products from the system.
Linseed can be found in whole grain breads, perhaps the most popular way of consuming the whole seed. Omega3 Dietary supplements can contain Linseed as well as many nutritional ad health supplements and Vitamins.
Eric J. Smith is an Experienced Horticulturalist with a keen interest in Organic Gardening. Eric's interest in Organics also shows in his interest in Organic Nutrition and Organic Skincare. More information can be found on these by visiting his websites http://www.buy-organic-products.com/health/ or http://www.lifestyle-health-services.com. Subscribe to Eric's FREE Health and Organic Newsletters via these websites.