Also Known as:  Lignan, Linseed oil

Flaxseed Facts
Flaxseed has been cultivated for over 7000 years and offers a rich source of healing. It is a slender, annual plant that grows up to 3 feet tall, with blue flowers. It was first grown in Europe and later brought to North America. Both the oil and seeds are used therapeutically in the prevention and treatment of cancer, heart disease, many inflammatory disorders, and for hormone-related problems. Fiber from the flaxseed stalks is used to make linen, and the oil and seeds are also used in paint and linoleum.

How Flaxseed Works
Flaxseed has many active constituents like linoleic, linolenic and oleic acids, mucilage, protein, and glycoside linamarin. It contains plant-based phytoestrogens and provides Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA's) like alpha-linolenic acid, and also provides Omega-6 fatty acids like linoleic acid. Flaxseed offers substantial amounts of a substance called lignans, which help fight cancer, bacteria, and viruses. It works to protect cell membranes by letting in healthy nutrients, but barring damaging substances. Flaxseed may facilitate transmission of nerve impulses, thus it can be useful for nerve ailments. It possesses antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.

Possible Benefits

• Cardiovascular health protection
• Lowers cholesterol
• Combats high blood pressure and angina
• Cancer preventative
• Excellent source of fiber to help with regularity, constipation, and diverticular disorders
• Digestive aid to prevent and dissolve gall stones
• Reduces inflammation associated with gout and lupus
• Promotes healthy skin, hair, and nails
• Accelerates healing of skin lesions
• Helps with acne, eczema, psoriosis, rosacea, and sunburn
• Assists in balancing estrogen/progesterone for normal menstrual cycle
• May be helpful for infertility, impotence, menstrual cramps, and endometriosis
• Soothing agent for respiratory and bronchial problems

Usage Guidelines
Flaxseed is very safe to take and has no known toxicity. It may cause flatulence when first taken. Take with food to enhance absorption.