This herb was scattered in Egyptian tombs. In the 18th century King Charlemagne from France passed a law requiring that people eat the seeds to maintain a healthy body.
Herbal specialists use this herb to reduce the risks of breast, colon and prostate cancer. It is used as a laxative, to fight bad cholesterol and skin disorders. For the skin it is used to relieve itching and sooth skin rashes (e.g. eczema.) The affectivity of Flaxseed is usually noticed after three months.
Flaxseed is a rich source of lignans and has antimitotic, antiangiogenic, antioxidant, and estrogenic effects. Its linseed oil contains linolenic and linoleic acid contains omega-3 fatty acids. Beneficial parts of this herbal plant are the seeds and whole plant.
Flaxseed can be mixed in cereals, pancakes, muffins and bread and as garnishments for salads and adds a crunchy, nutty pleasant taste in many dishes. It is also used in teas and as a substitute in coffee preparations. Because of its oil consistency it will easily become rancid if not refrigerated after use.
Flaxseed oil can be used as a substitute to oils when cooking but the measurement will be different. It can also be used as a substitute for butter spread when used on bread, steamed vegetables or other culinary dishes where you traditionally spread butter on it.
Commercially linseed oil is used as a cleansing agent and for paints and coating which forms a film similar to plastic when used. It is also used as an animal feed. This shows the versatility of herbs in general and its wide spectrum of uses. It is also used for cigarette paper, pulp and paper products and even interior paneling in vehicles. |
