The real name of the plant is "Linum usitatissimum" and belongs to the Linaceae family, there are 20 species, but the most famous varieties are brown and golden yellow. Flax blooms between April and September, and the seeds can be harvested between July and September when they are ripe, are oval-shaped, smooth, shiny and sharp.
It is assumed that the first crops were localized in Ethiopia and Egypt, about six thousand years ago, arriving in our continent pre-Roman era. Linen has always been cultivated in order to obtain textile fiber but also for the oil, much appreciated for its beneficial qualities and the flour made from it. Later it was discovered that the seeds have properties good for the body and whether it has spread consumption.
One of the curiosities of the flax need to know that the Egyptians used it mainly for the manufacture of bandages with which he covered the body from mummify.
WARNING: This article has been prepared for informational purposes only, it is not therefore a prescription. For instructions for use, dosage and in case of side effects or interactions with drugs you should contact your GP.
Flaxseed: properties and health benefits
The use of flaxseed in the medical field was conceived in Greece, where Hippocrates became aware of the healing properties of these seeds that were used to treat coughs and intestinal disorders.
Flax seeds contain:
- Lipids: omega-3, omega-6;
- proteins;
- vitamins B, C and E;
- minerals: phosphorus, magnesium, copper, sodium, calcium, iron, zinc, potassium and manganese;
- linoleic acid;
- stearic acid;
- oleic acid;
- palmitic acid;
- amino acids: glutamic acid and aspartic acid, arginine, glycine, histidine, cystine, leucine, isoleucine, methionine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine and valine.
Among the beneficial properties of flaxseed are:
- anticancer properties, in fact there has been a lower incidence of colon cancer, breast and prostate cancer at the taking of these seeds;
- anti-aging properties, among the benefits encountered there is a better oxygenation of cells and therefore a lower appearance of wrinkles and less hair loss;
- beneficial properties for the heart, being rich in omega 3, flax seed prevent clogging of the arteries and plaque formation caused by excess cholesterol also keep active and well-functioning circulation;
- laxative properties, flax seeds help fight constipation, improve bowel function, peristalsis and detoxification;
- anti-inflammatory properties, are referred to as herbal remedy for fighting inflammation species, dermatitis, inflammation of the urinary tract and bowel and rheumatic pains;
- hypotensive, it is recommended the consumption of flax seeds to those who suffer from high blood pressure;
- carminative properties, linseed improve gastric functions and thus digestion;
- re-mineralizing, they are given to prevent osteoporosis and other bone disorders;
- toning and reinforced, linseed tone muscles and strengthen the immune system;
- protective properties of the brain, due to brain lecithin and nervous system are well protected against damage and disease;
- purifying properties, the regular consumption of flax seed helps the body excrete waste and toxins;
The consumption of flaxseed is also recommended during pregnancy, but only on medical advice, prevents hemorrhoids and helps to facilitate proper development of the cerebral cortex of the fetus.
You are studying other properties of flaxseed: how to improve kidney function in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, the lower the level of blood sugar in people with diabetes, to improve the symptoms of menopause, like hot flashes, to soothe mastalgia or sore breasts.
Flaxseed: uses and contraindications
It 'important to note that, despite the many health benefits, must not exceed in the consumption of these seeds.
Contraindications linseed
WARNING: although they can be consumed during pregnancy, it must be the doctor's opinion.
Excessive intake of flaxseed can cause:
- bowel obstruction;
- flatulence;
- nausea;
- swelling;
- dysentery;
- stomach cramps.
The intake of silt seeds is also not recommended for those suffering from diverticulitis and irritable bowel syndrome.
As for the administration in children you need the advice of a pediatrician.
It may interact with diabetes medications such glimipirida (Amaryl), gliburida (Glynase Setpoint, Micronase), insulin, pioglitazone (Actos), rosiglitazone (Avandia), clorpropamida (Diabinese), glipizida (Glucotrol), tolbutamide (Orinase) and anticoagulants aspirin comne , clopidogrel (Plavix), diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam), ibuprofen, naproxen, dalteparin (Fragmin), enoxaparin (Lovenox), heparin, warfarin (Coumadin), consult your doctor.
In case of side effects cease immediately the assumption.
Doses and applies
It is recommended that flax seeds sparingly, no more than three teaspoons of raw seeds and chopped accompanied by plenty of fluids, water or herbal teas, juices or centrifuged. You can also pay directly in water or centrifuged.
The seeds of flax can also be served in soups, cereals, salads, bread (in baked goods but also in wanting biscuits), in yogurt. You can also prepare a tea against constipation for example, by boiling one or two teaspoons of crushed seeds. It is boiled for a few minutes, filtered and drinking.
Flax seeds can also be used for nourishing masks and emollient for the skin and hair: just leave a glass to soak in water overnight, then boil for half an hour, drain and blend, then add the ingredients that are needed for masks or wraps. Alternatively you can use the oil directly.
Flaxseed: tips and recommendations
As regards the flax seed oil, it is generally not recommended for internal use but external. Both the seeds that the oil should be stored in dry and dark places. In the case in which the oil purchases a nauseating odor should be discarded, in the case in which the seeds are mature or are damaged not be consumed.
