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LINUM USITATISSIMUM

FLAXSEED

Flax is a group of annual and perennial plants from the Linaceae family. Several varieties of one species, L. usitatissimum, are grown primarily for their fiber, used in making linen, or for their seeds, the source of linseed oil. The seeds contain a remarkable healing oil which can be used both internally and externally. Flaxseed is also known as linseed, but should not be confused with the “boiled” linseed oil available from building merchants. As far back as Hippocrates, flaxseed tea has been used to treat sore throats, hoarseness, and bronchial spasms.

USES

 Apply the oil to sprains to reduce inflammation and ease the pain.

 Mix flaxseed with lime water to reduce the pain of burns.

 Flaxseed (linseed) tea can be used for mild constipation, and to encourage kidney function. The tea also works to ease kidney pains and cramping.

 The tea can be drunk during bouts of bronchitis to reduce inflammation of the lungs and prevent spasm.

 Add lemon and honey to flaxseed tea to encourage its action and improve taste.

PROPERTIES

 Mildly laxative

 Tonic for the kidneys and encourages their action

 Encourages healing

 Analgesic

 Antispasmodic

CAUTION

Commercially produced linseed oil is used in protective coatings such as paints and varnishes because it has a drying action. It is not suitable for human consumption.