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Advances in Environmental Biology, 5(6): 1380-1392, 2011
ISSN 1995-0756
This is a refereed journal and all articles are professionally screened and reviewed
ORIGINAL ARTICLE
Linseed and Usages in Humanlife
Mohammad Sharrif Moghaddasi
Islamic Azad University/saveh Branch, Iran.
Mohammad Sharrif Moghaddasi; Linseed and Usages in Humanlife
Common Names: flaxseed, linseed
Latin Names: Linum usitatissimum
Introduction
Flaxseed or linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) is
derived from the flax plant, an annual herb with blue
flowers believed to have originated in Egypt. Also
othere researcher bilived that it maybe from Türkiye,
Suriye, or Irak. Todays this plant cultivated as a
cultivar plant in Europe, Asia, USA. It is a versatile
plant that is grown both for industrial and culinary
applications, as well as for aesthetic purposes. This
is one of the few flowers in the world capable of
truly producing the blue colors.
The popularity of the flax plant has been
increasing in the past years due to health concerns
and awareness that is spreading across the world.
Known for its high content of omega-3 fatty acids as
well as fibre, flax seeds in its various forms have
become standard in the diets of those who are
looking towards a healthier lifestyle. The among of
3-fatty acids is about more than 2 times fishes. Past
the seed, the fibre extracted from the ‘skin’ of the
plant can be used to make clothing articles, beddings,
ropes and more.
The ancient Egyptians used flaxseed for
nutritional and medicinal purposes about B.C 3000.
They also used the fiber contained in the flax plant
to make clothes, fishnets, and other products.
Throughout history, flaxseed has been primarily used
as a laxative. It is high in fiber and a gummy
material called mucilage. These substances expand
when they come in contact with water, so they add
bulk to stool and help it move more quickly through
the gastrointestinal tract, thereby acting as a laxative
for constipation.
The seeds and oil of the flax plant also contain
substances that promote good health. Flaxseed and
Corresponding Author
Mohammad Sharrif Moghaddasi, Islamic Azad University/Saveh branch, Iran
E-mail: [email protected]
Adv. Environ. Biol., 5(6): 1380-1392, 2011
flaxseed oil are rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA),
an essential fatty acid that appears to be beneficial
for heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease,
arthritis, and a variety of other health problems.
Other plants that provide ALA include canola
(rapeseed), soybean oil, walnuts, and pumpkin seed.
ALA belongs to a group of substances called omega3 fatty acids. It is important to maintain an
appropriate balance of omega-3 and omega-6 (another
essential fatty acid) in the diet, as these two
substances work together to promote health.
Mackerel, salmon, and walnuts are also good sources
of omega-3 fatty acids. Most omega-6 fatty acids
tend to promote inflammation while omega-3 fatty
acids help reduce inflammation. A healthy diet
should consist of roughly 2 - 4 times more omega-6
fatty acids than omega-3 fatty acids. The typical
American diet tends to contain 14 - 30 times more
omega-6 fatty acids than omega-3 fatty acids, and
many researchers believe this imbalance is a
significant factor in the rising rate of inflammatory
disorders in the United States, including heart
disease, cancer, and arthritis. Other omega-3 fatty
acids include those found in fish oil
(docosahexaenoic acid or DHA, and eicosapentaenoic
acid or EPA). ALA can be converted to long-chain
omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) and can
therefore be substituted for fish oils. However, EPA
and DHA (the fish oils) are more rapidly
incorporated into plasma and membrane lipids and
produce more rapid effects than does ALA. Only a
small amount of ALA is converted to DHA or EPA
in the body, so larger quantities of flaxseed oil need
to be taken to get the same effects from fish oils.
Larger quantities of flaxseed oil may increase the
chances of diarrhea and may increase blood sugar
levels. One advantage of the consumption of ALA
over omega-3 fats from fish is that the problem of
insufficient vitamin E intake does not exist with high
intake of ALA from plant sources. Generally, if an
individual wishes to supplement the diet with an
omega-3 fatty acid, fish oil products would
bepreferred to flaxseed oil.
Flax seed contains polyunsaturated fatty acids in
high rates, saturated fatty acid in low rates, fiber in
low rates with plenty of potassium, and small
amounts of magnesium, iron, copper, zinc and
various vitamins. It might be more suitable to say
that 100 g flax seed contains 13.4 mg vitamin E;
while 100 g flax oil contains about 450 kcal. The
amino group acid profile of flax seed displays
characteristics similar to soy flour. Flax seed is
frequently recommended by nutritionists because of
its contained rate of N-3 fatty acid (approximately
four times more than Omage-6); its abundance with
regards to soluble and insoluble fibers; and due to
the fact that it is the richest source of lignans a kind
of plant estrogen. In hormone-dependent types of
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cancer, lignans provide protection against cancer by
intervening sex hormones; prevent tumor cells from
growing. Each of the lignans contained in flax seed
is a natural SERM (selective estrogen receptor
modulator), protecting against harms of estrogen use
and ensuring to benefit from all the other positive
impacts at the same time. For example, whereas,
they allow estrogen to set up connections in bones
and thereby ensure growth. They do not allow it to
penetrate into sensitive regions such as breasts and
intra-uterus it may harm. Cancer risk falls down if an
extra cell growth is not present. While flax seed
contains a total of 246.6 mg plant estrogen in 100 g,
this does not exceed 17 mg in 100 g in many other
foodstuffs. Of fiber it contains, approximately two
thirds bear characteristics of fiber insoluble in water,
and the remaining of soluble fiber. Fibers insoluble
in water increase stool density and decrease intestinal
clearance time, thereby having an impact as
preventing constipation and easing intestines. Fibers
soluble in water contained in flax seed (mucilage
glue/gum) maintain blood glucose level and reduce
cholesterol level. There are also cancer preventive
effects of high amount of fiber in the nutrition. Flax
seed is the richest of all the foods in means of alphalinolenic acid (the most significant member of N-3
fatty acids)
. A part of alpha-linolenic acid
transforms into long-chain N-3 fatty acids EPA and
DHA inside the body, which increase good
cholesterol; have an impact as dropping high blood
pressure; reduce blood clotting tendency; and
decrease plasma triglyceride level and arrhythmia
risk. Thus, alpha-linolenic acid has been found to
decrease the risk of coronary heart disease. The
research conducted on flax seed shows that regular
use of flax seed, thus consumption of alpha-linoleic
fat may prevent development of arteriosclerosis
(vessel stiffness), and be effective in autoimmune
disorders. Cancer preventive properties of balanced
N-3 diet have been detected, too. Shifting of fatty
acids balance towards N-6, saturated fatty acids and
trans fats does not only imply our decreased
consumption of N-3; those fats also happen to keep
our body from making necessary benefit from N-3
fatty acids by inhibiting alpha-linoleic fatty acid from
transforming into long-chain N-3 fatty acids. You
may control whether it germinates by controlling its
viability; it is not biable it does not germinate.
Flax seeds may not be digested sufficiently even
through a careful chewing as they are hard; and this
causes them to be excreted without digestion. It is
much more easier to digest ground flax seed. We
may benefit from medicinal properties of flax seed
on a higher scale if we eat it after grinding. Black
pepper or coffee hand mill grinders, or electric
grinders specially produced to grind this type of
seeds may be utilized to grind flax seeds. Flax seed
retain its freshness for a year at room temperature.
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Ground flax seed on the other hand can be stored
inside a jar with airtight cap in the refrigerator for 30
days.
Bakery sector in the west has resorted to the
method of adding ground flax seed into mixed grain
bread for the purpose of meeting customer demands.
Ground flax seed has also entered food industry via
ready mixtures (cakes etc.), frozen pastry and ready
products served by melting. Moreover, eggs enriched
in means of N-3, obtained by feeding chickens flax
seed, are present.
For a person who consumes food equivalent to
2000 kcal a day, daily use of 1 tablespoon of ground
flax seed will provide sufficient contribution with
regards to N-3 fatty acids use. It was determined
through laboratory studies that ground or unground
seeds do not almost any of its N-3 fatty acids and
lignans inside an oven at temperature of 178 degrees
for 2 hours. However flax seed oil has lost its fiber
and lignans in the seed, even if it is a good source
of N-3 fatty acid. It is recommended that flax seed
oil is not exposed to heat during use (in salads and
after cooking dishes.
Its use in traditional treatment
Flax seed possesses antifungal, antimitotic and
antioxidant properties. Mucilage contained in flax
seeds draw water and swells in intestines, exercising
effect as a mechanical laxative. It takes a little time
for flax to exercise this effect, but it has an
important advantage as it does not cause irritation.
It may be used for a longer time compared to other
laxatives. Its oil back up the lapactic effect.
It is known to have been utilized with this
purpose since the time of ancient Egyptians. It may
cause irritations in digestive system. For treatment,
one should eat 1-2 teaspoons of seed preferably
before going to bed, and drink 2 glasses of water
thereafter. Against bad cough, common cold, or
catching chill, 1 tablespoon of flax seed is boiled in
3 cups of water for 10 minutes; left for soaking for
3-5 minutes, drained and then drunk. Vapor of this
tea is inhaled through the nose. Regarding pulmonary
diseases and pneumonia, 80 g flax seed is mixed into
40 g fennel seed, which takesa mushy shape in
slightly warm water and placed on the chest and
back after sandwiching inbetween cheese cloths. In
healing furuncles, herpes zoster and bruises, 80 g
flax seed is assumed a mushy shape together with 40
g mallow and then put on the lesion.
Now it is a known fact that highly effective
laxative medicines cause minerals necessary for the
organism (especially potassium) to decrease and
irritate intestines in case of continuous use. However,
this sort of side effects is by no means in question
in case of flax seed use. Because laxative effect of
flax seed is a mechanical one.
Flax seed tea:
1 dessertspoon of uncrushed seed is added into
1 glass of water, and left for soaking for 20-30
minutes with occasional stirs. Seeds are drained
without squeezing and then obtained water is drunk
by making slightly tepid.
C In order to help newborn babies for dissolving
phlegm, flax seed is pounded and given them to
be licked together with sugar.
C It is useful against dyspnea, asthma, dysphonia,
bad cough and bronchitis. 1 tablespoon of
roasted and milled flax seed is mixed with
honey, and is eaten one hour before meals.
C If flax seed powder is boiled on fire with
sufficient amount of water for a mushy
consistency, and then put on the chest while it
is at normal temperature, this will soften the
chest.
C Helps expel kidney stones; a tablespoon of flax
seed, a tablespoon of hollyhock root and half a
teaspoon of licorice are put into one liter of
water. It is boiled for half an hour and drained;
then 3-4 tepid glasses of this mixture are drunk
on an empty stomach.
C A tablespoon of powdered flax seed is
swallowed with a glass of water an hour before
meals.
C Clears out constipation; flax seed is a natural
laxative. A teaspoon of flax seed powder is put
into a glass of hot water, brewed and drained. A
cup of this is drunk a day.
C Precautions can be taken against prostate cancer
with flax seed support exercised with a low-fat
diet.
C Flax seed are recommended for diabetic patients,
too. 1 tablespoon of flax seed is boiled in 1 liter
of water until the water gets down to 7/2 liters.
Obtained ferment is drunk 3 times a day.
C Used against pulmonary tuberculosis, hemoptysis,
splenomegaly and stomach ulcer. Flax seed flour
in an amount of 10-gram for each is assumed a
paste consistency with honey, 30-40 g of this
paste is swallowed on an empty stomach in the
morning.
C Regarding stomach ulcer; 1 kg flax seed is
pounded in press, boiled with 1 kg milk, taken
off the stove when it gains a thick consistency,
and taken in one tablespoon half an hour before
meals.
C It is put on rectum in a tepid mushy form for
treatment of hemorrhoids, and on the region for
whitlows, furuncles, sprains and dislocations.
Given a mushy form and then put on the
problematic region for treatment of
inflammations and swellings.
C Cures inflammations of intestines and abdominal
pains. Disinfects gastrointestinal tract.
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Its vapor is applied like incense against common
cold. Good for bad colds.
For tooth abscess, it is mixed with milk and
heated; applied in mushy form between
cheesecloth exteriorly on painful and abscessed
tooth.
Used in mushy form against abscesses in
animals, too.
As an aphrodisiac; flax seed is given a paste
consistency together with honey and black
pepper and then swallowed.
Strengthens the nervous system.
Strengthens the memory.
Good for impairment of concentration.
Good for age-associated distractibility.
Ensures rapid healing of wounds through
external use.
Protects the skin against getting dry. ( due to its
omega – 3 fatty acid content)
Used in eczema and psoriasis diseases.
Used as compress on calluses.
Exercises a positive impact on respiratory tract
diseases.
Good for mental disorders.
Cures bad cough.
Used as mouthwash in oral cavity, throat and
gingival disorders.
Its fibers are utilized in industry, especially in
textile industry.
Boosts sexual potency in men.
Reduces the risk of catching breast and colon
cancer.
Provides contribution to a healthy skin
formation.
Useful in adjusting blood pressure.
Lowers sugar in blood.
A source of healing
Flax, with its Latin name ‘Linum Usitatissimum’,
is among the first cultivated products in the world.
It has been utilized not only in the textile industry
and cloth manufacturing, but also as a foodstuff for
about 10,000 years back. At least 5,000 years before
the birth of Christ, Egyptians began to cultivate flax
plant
to wrap mummies. Nevertheless, it is
cultivated all over the world today, including Turkey
and Iran.
Has a weight loss property too
The most significant property of flax which
makes it attractive particularly for women is that it
has a weight loss property. It arouses a feeling of
fullness and causes one to eat less. Its weight loss
property actually results from Omega-3 fatty acids it
contains. Flax seed has just the same effect as the
fish. Flax seed contains as much Omega-3 oil as
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salmon. One may averagely lose 4-5 kilos in a
month if taken one tablespoon a day. Nevertheless
this naturally varies from person to person and from
structure to structure. It is of great importance to
consult with an expert. For some reason, ‘natural’
foods or plants are believed to be harmless. Yet, a
plant too may result in health problems if used
unconsciously. If you consume flax seed in excess
doses, intestines soften way too much and body
losses extreme amounts of water. Consequently,
extreme weight loss occurs. Its ideal use is a
tablespoon a day. But, dosage that should be taken
may differ depending on weight problem. In fact,
people can adjust this dosage themselves. If it is
used in a way that intestines do not get too softened,
that means right dosage is not exceed.
Flax seed is a shiny substance which is similar
to sesame, but brown in color is utilized especially
in the food industry, by
adding into numerous
bakery products, bread, cookies and pastries being in
the first place. It is possible to use flax seed in form
of oil, seed or ground powder. Its use method varies
according to purpose. It may be necessary to
consume it with its shell, and sometimes without it.
It is more beneficial to apply it without grinding on
people who do not consume pulpy, fibrous foods in
sufficient amounts. It is more useful to consume it
in its seed form, in a pulpy, fibrous structure. A
person, who is able to digest foods in a normal way,
can consume it in its seed form. It may cause gas in
some people; nevertheless it is recommended that
those people drink a cup of fennel tea after flax
seed. Flax seed does not have any known serious
side effect. The greatest effect of flax seed is that it
acts as a laxative, i.e., activates intestines. Experts
recommend flax seeds especially for people with
constipation problem. Stating that its seeds are
consumed generally, yet flax seed oil too has started
to become widespread in recent years, experts add;
“Flax seed oil is being used as an assistant to
activate and clean intestines, and ease surfaces of
inner organs. It also softens the skin and is good for
bad cough. It is not something that easily spoils.
That means; it can be stored in any jar for a long
time. It can be also used as mouthwash in oral
cavity, throat and gingival disorders. It has positive
effects on bad cough, coughing fit and stomach
problems like gastritis, too.” Experts put emphasis on
the fact that flax seed contains a serious amount of
Vitamin B12; and particularly vegetarians should be
careful for flax seed intake. “Number of vegetarians
has increased dramatically in recent years. Subjects
vegetarians should be careful about are iron, zinc and
Vitamin B12 with regards to anemia. Iron and zinc
are present within numerous plants in the nature. But
the only foodstuff which contains high rates of B12
except for animals and animal protein is flax seed.
Therefore flax seed is highly necessary for
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vegetarians in particular with regards to Vitamin
B12.”
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Stay young with flax seed
Anti-ageing has begun to get increasingly
widespread in the world. So to speak; people
compete with each other to stay young’, thin and
fit. Here, according to experts, flax seed has positive
effects on this issue too. It is stated that Flax seed
postpones ageing; “Omega-3, Vitamin B12 and fibers
in flax seed postpone ageing by keeping cells young.
However, if taken in excessive amounts, it would not
exercise a weight loss effect since this plant too
contains fat and vitamins. But one or half a teaspoon
of flax seed would be sufficient in means of daily
consumption.” Experts also mention that benefits of
flax seed are not widely known, thus people do not
consume this plant much.
Flax Seed Oil
It is the vegetable oil with the highest amount of
Omega 3 fatty acid which lowers LDL cholesterol
and triglyceride level. Omega 3 need may be
satisfied by means of adding flax seed into bakery
products or eating eggs obtained from chickens fed
with flax seed. Flax seed prohibits inflammations,
prevents swelling and pain in joint diseases. It is also
useful in recovering from skin diseases such as
psoriasis. Fibrous elements are also present in flax
seed and flax seed preparations. Those fibrous
elements are effective with polyunsaturated fatty
acids both in recovering of cholesterol level and in
strengthening of immune system.
It was
demonstrated in experimental animals fed with flax
seed that hormone-associated types of cancer (breast,
uterine and prostate) were prevented to occur. This
positive effect is thanks to phytoestrogen (natural
plant estrogen hormone ).
Moreover, flax seed oil;
C REGULATES CHOLESTEROL AND BLOOD
PRESSURE; PROVIDES PROTECTION
AGAINST HEART DISEASES: It was
determined through the research that flax seed
oil reduces heart attack risk by lowering
cholesterol. Use of flax seed oil prevents high
blood pressure, cholesterol and angina as well. A
research conducted at Boston’s Simmons College
has revealed that flax seed oil prevents
secondary heart attacks and circulatory disorders.
C PROVIDES PROTECTION AGAINST GOUT
AND SKIN DISEASES: Regarding skin
diseases, flax seed oil not only reduces
inflammation in joints, but also lowers the
cholesterol level raised by the disease. Use of
flax seed oil in gout disease eliminates swelling
and joint pains caused by the disease.
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PROVIDES PROTECTION AGAINST
CONSTIPATION, HEMORRHOIDS AND
DIVERTICULAR DISORDERS: Flax seed
prevents constipation and hemorrhoids by
facilitating stool pass in intestines due to its
fibrous structure. It prohibits formation of
gallstones and eradicated already formed
gallstones.
CURES ACNE, ECZEMA AND PSORIASIS
DISEASES: It is known that basic fatty acid
present in flax seed oil has skin healing
properties. Skin diseases such as psoriasis,
strawberry marks fail to resist against antiinflammatory effects of EFA, and fade away.
Sunburns heal faster when treated with flax seed
oil.
FEEDS HAIR AND FINGERS: Omega-3 fatty
acids, present in flax seed oil in abundance, are
observed to exercise effect on healthy growing
of hair and finger.
REDUCES NERVOUS SYSTEM DISORDERS
WHICH CAUSE OTHER DISORDERS SUCH
AS PARESTHESIA AND FORMICATION:
EFAs present in flax seed oil transmission of
neural impulses. Neural nutrient properties of
this oil can be used in treatment of Parkinson’s
disease and as a protective against diseases such
as diabetes and sclerosis.
REDUCES CANCER RISK AND POSTPONES
EFFECTS OF AGING: Lignans present in flax
seed oil are thought to provide protection against
breast, colon, prostate and even skin cancer. It
was determined through studies conducted at
University of Toronto that women who have
caught breast cancer respond to the treatment
administered with flax seed oil, regardless of
advancement degree of the cancer. Studies have
also revealed that lignans postpone various effect
of aging.
CURES MANIFESTATIONS OF MENOPAUSE,
MENSTRUAL CRAMPS AND INFERTILITY
IN WOMEN: Hormone stabilizer lignans and
plant estrogens in flax seed oil are highly useful
in fighting against menstrual problems and
menopause since they help balance estrogen and
progesterone levels of women. Flax seed oil
increases uterus functions and that is why it
eradicates infertility problem.
EFFECTIVE AGAINST PROSTATE,
INFERTILITY IN MEN AND IMPOTENCY:
EFAs present in flax seed oil prevents prostate
from swelling and getting inflamed. Swelling of
urinary bladders, which is the manifestation of
prostate, decreases after use of this oil. EFAs
protect sperm health at the same time, which is
highly significant for treatment of infertility in
men.
Good against stomach-intestine problems;
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strengthens immune system.
Strengthens bones. Beneficial especially during
menopause period. Prevents rheumatismal diseases.
Strengthens the nervous system.
Strengthens the memory.
Stabilizes blood sugar.
Good for impairment of concentration.
Good for age-associated distractibility.
Ensures rapid healing of wounds through
external use. Softens the skin. Useful against pain
and swelling in joint disorders.
Used as compress on calluses.
Exercises a positive impact on respiratory tract
diseases.
Good for mental disorders.
Cures bad coughing.
Used as mouthwash in oral cavity, throat and
gingival disorders.
Effective against impotency, prostate and
infertility.
Points to consider while using flax seed oil
- Do not heat or expose it to heat. It should not
be used in preparing dishes.
- It should be protected against light, too.
- Prefer those sold in small bottles instead of
those sold in large bottles.
- It is better to store it by freezing.
- Date of production and expiry date can be found
on product tag.
Studies suggest that flaxseed (both the ALA in
the flaxseed oil and the lignans in the seed) may
play a role in the
Prevention and tratement of the folowing helth
conditions:
High cholesterol
People who follow a Mediterranean diet tend to
have higher HDL ("good") cholesterol levels. The
Mediterranean diet consists of a healthy balance
between omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 (found in
olive oil) fatty acids. It emphasizes whole grains,
root and green vegetables, daily intake of fruit, fish
and poultry, olive and canola oils, and ALA (from
flaxseed, flaxseed oil, and walnuts), along with
discouragement of ingestion of red meat and not
much use of butter and cream.
Flaxseed and flaxseed oil have been reported to
possess cholesterol-lowering properties in laboratory
studies. Human studies have used flaxseed products
and measured effects on cholesterol, with mixed
results. A human study found that dietary flaxseed
significantly improved lipid (cholesterol) profile in
patients with high cholesterol, and may favorably
modify cardiovascular risk factors.
Flaxseed is one of the richest sources of alphalinolenic acid (ALA), that is, the parent compound of
Omega-3 fatty acids. Studies have shown that those
following the Mediterranean diets have superior HDL
cholesterol levels, due to the strong emphasis on a
balance between Omega-3, Omega-6 and Omega-9
fatty acids. HDL – High Density Lipoprotein, “a
blood constituent involved in the transport of
cholesterol and associated with a decreased risk of
atherosclerosis and heart attack.” “Flaxseed and
flaxseed oil have been reported to possess
cholesterol-lowering properties in laboratory studies.”
This is due to ALA inhibiting the production of
triglycerides and Very Low Density Lipoprotein
(VLDL, bad cholesterol) in the liver.
Heart disease
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains,
nuts or legumes, and ALA-rich foods may
substantially reduce the recurrence of heart disease.
One of the best ways to help prevent and treat heart
disease is to eat a low-fat diet and to replace foods
rich in saturated and trans-fat with those that are rich
in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats
(including omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed).
Evidence suggests that people who eat an ALA-rich
diet are less likely to suffer a fatal heart attack.
C ALA may reduce heart disease risks through a
variety of biological mechanisms, including
platelet function (making them less "sticky"),
inflammation, blood vessel health, and
arrhythmia (irregular heart beat).
C Several human studies also suggest that diets
rich in omega-3 fatty acids (including ALA) may
lower blood pressure.
C The occurrence and recurrence rate of heart
disease has been reportedly lower with the
consumption of foods abundant in ALA. This
effect is achieved through biological
mechanisms, including but not limited to
reduction of inflammation and an increase in the
blood vessel health. Studies have also reported
that lowered blood pressure is another benefit
provided by ALA that may reduce the risk of
heart disease.
Menopausal symptoms
Flaxseed was compared to hormone replacement
therapy (HRT) in menopausal women. 40 g of
flaxseed was reported to be equally effective as HRT
for mild menopausal symptoms (hot flashes, mood
disturbances, vaginal dryness) and to lower blood
sugar levels. However, a few studies report no
benefits in reducing menopausal symptoms when
using flaxseed oil. Flaxseed was also found to be
beneficial in bone health, potentially decreasing the
chances of developing osteoporosis.
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In addition to the important omega-3 fatty acid
ALA, flaxseed (not the oil) also contains a group of
chemicals called lignans that may protect the body
from cancer. Lignans are plant compounds that
mimic the action of the natural hormone estrogen.
For this reason, lignans are considered phyto (plant)
estrogens. Because of their estrogen-like activity,
scientists aren't sure whether flaxseed would be
harmful or helpful for breast cancer. Several
laboratory studies support the use of flaxseed oil in
preventing cancer development.
Laboratory studies have reported reduction in
breast tumor growth and metastasis (spreading) in
rats. A human study has examined the effects of
dietary flaxseed in postmenopausal patients with
newly diagnosed breast cancer. The authors found
that dietary flaxseed may have the potential to reduce
tumor growth in patients with breast cancer.
progression than those who did not consume the diet.
However, a study of about 47,000 men found that
ALA omega-3 fatty acids may stimulate the growth
of prostate tumors in men with advanced prostate
cancer. The researchers found that men who were
suffering from advanced prostate cancer had higher
quantities of ALA from nonanimal as well as meat
and dairy sources.
The study included men that were scheduled for
a prostatectomy and gave them 30 grams of flaxseed
for 30 days prior to their surgery. The men that took
the flaxseed along with a low-fat diet were compared
to the men that were only following a low-fat diet
and also men that made no adjustments to their diet.
The tumours were then removed and analyzed by the
researchers and they found that the men who had
taken the flaxseed had slower growth rates of their
tumors. The scientists believe that the lignans in
flaxseed might work by choking the blood supply off
to the tumors, in essence stunting their growth.
Colon cancer
Breast Cancer
Laboratory studies show that lignans may slow
the growth of colon tumor cells and some studies
have found that flaxseed may significantly reduce the
number of abnormal cell growths (early markers of
colon cancer). More research is needed. A Canadian
study published in the Journal of Nutrition followed
1,095 people that were diagnosed with colon cancer
and 1,890 people who were cancer-free. The
participants had to complete a questionnaire about
their diet and provide blood samples. The participants
who had a larger amount of lignan-rich foods in their
diet has a 27 percent lower risk of colon cancer
compared with the other group who had the lowest
amount of lignans in their system. Those who had
the highest level of isoflavones had a 29 percent
lower risk of developing colon cancer compared with
people who consume very small amounts.
A study performed at the University of Toronto
and Princess Margaret Hospitals in Toronto found
that women with breast cancer benefited from
flaxseed. The study followed 9 women with newly
diagnosed breast cancer tumors. One group of
women were eating 25 grams of ground flax in a
muffin each day and the other half were given a
control muffin that was whole-wheat flour. The study
lasted for approximately five and a half weeks and
the women that ate the flax muffins showed
significant reductions in breast cancer cell
proliferation and the tumor growth was smaller
compared with the women eating the whole-wheat
flour muffins.
Lignans from flaxseed
Prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is a hormone-sensitive cancer
meaning tumor growth is linked by the sex hormone
called testosterone and the metabolite called
dihydrotestosterone. A study led by Duke University
Medical Center found that flaxseed appears to stop
the formation of prostate tumours. The findings
showed that the compounds, called lignans, may be
able to interrupt the process of the cells dividing and
becoming cancerous.
Researchers are investigating whether lignans in
flaxseed help prevent prostate cancer. In one study
that compared 25 men with prostate cancer to the
same number of men without the disease, researchers
found that men who consumed a low-fat, flaxseedsupplemented diet for 1 month had slower tumor
Flax and Osteoporosis
Researchers from Oklahoma State University
found from tests on postmenopausal women that flax
had a positive effect on their bones. The lignans and
ALA in flaxseed may help in preventing bone loss
and osteoporosis by blocking the production of
prostaglandins and decreasing the rate of bone
resorption, which increase bone loss.
Flax and Kidney Disease
Researchers at the University of Toronto found
that ground flax reduced the inflammation of the
kidneys and improves the function of patients with
chronic, inflammatory autoimmune disease with
major health consequences, including renal failure,
arthritis, thrombosis, and seizures. Patients with these
conditions were given 15-45 grams of flax on a daily
basis for a total of four weeks and they showed
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improved kidney function and reduced inflammation.
Flax and Immune System
Studies from the University of Toronto regarding
the effects of flaxseed on the immune system have
favorably shown that the body’s ability to defend
itself against bacteria and viruses is increased with
the use of flaxseed.
Flax and ADHD
The Department of Foods and Nutrition at
Purdue University have found that boys who have
been diagnosed with ADHD had significantly lower
concentrations of certain EFAS in their blood. The
use of flaxseed to increase this EFA level is a safe
and beneficial treatment.
Flax and Diabetes
The University of Manitoba is currently studying
the effects of ground flax and flax oil on blood
glucose and insulin levels in people with type 2
diabetes. In the study so far flax consumption lowers
the blood glucose level in healthy young adults. One
study had six healthy volunteers fast overnight and
in the morning they consumed a test meal containing
50 grams of bread with either ground flax or white
flour. The blood glucose response was 28% lower
after eating the flax bread compared with the white
flour bread.
Skin cancer
Animal studies suggest that lignans from
flaxseed may also offer some protection against skin
cancer including, possibly, the prevention of
metastatic spread of melanoma from the skin to the
lungs.
Other uses
Although further research is needed, preliminary
evidence suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may help
protect against certain infections and treating a
variety of conditions, including ulcers, migraine
headaches, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder,
addiction, eating disorders, preterm labor,
emphysema, psoriasis, glaucoma, Lyme disease,
lupus, and panic attacks.
Also it is good for MİGRENS headech, MS and
PARKİNSON.
especially in hormone sensitive cancers, such as
breast and prostate cancer. The US Department of
Agriculture has stated that flaxseed contains 27
identifiable cancer preventative compounds.
Does flax seed have any harm?
How do harms of flax oil occur? Side effects of
flax seed may appear in consequence of wrong
method and amount of use.
It should be stored and utilized in proper
conditions. Its intake in a wrong way will have
negative effects on immune system due to its
tendency to rapid spoiling.
It is recommended
that flax seed and
particularly flax seed oil should be consumed fresh,
and stored at -7 degrees in the refrigerator. It is
also recomended that some harmful substances like
cancer may reproduce in case it spoils and one
consumes it in this spoiled condition.
Plant Description:
Flax is an annual plant that thrives in deep moist
soils rich in sand, silt, and clay. The small, ovalshaped seeds of the flax plant contain oil (sometimes
called linseed oil).
Its roots are thin and in form of taproot. Its
length varies between 50 – 100 cm. Its leaves are
lined on the body in the shape of pikes placed on it.
Its flowers resemble an umbrella; and are bright blue,
blue, white and pink in color. Roots are 1 mm in
thickness, 2 – 4 mm in width and 4 – 6 mm in
length; shaped like eggs; yellowish, red and brown in
color.
Flexseed cemichals:
Flaxseed contains several phyto (plant)
compounds that may be beneficial in humans,
including:
C Fiber (including soluble and insoluble)
C Protein -- approximately 20%
C Lignans
C Essential fatty acids (ALA) -- flaxseed is
approximately 35% oil, of which 55% is ALA.
The laxative effect of flaxseed is due to its fiber
and mucilage content. As described earlier,
phytoestrogens, known as lignans, appear to play a
role in the cancer protective effects of this plant.
Other health benefits of flaxseed (such as protection
from heart disease and arthritis) are likely due to its
high concentration of the omega-3 fatty acid ALA.
Flaxseed Attributes and Medical Data
Composition:
The National Cancer Institute has released a
report stating that flax as a food has been identified
as having potential cancer fighting properties
High Amounts of Mucilage Which Is of Top
Priority in Plant’s Used for Treatment Purposes.
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Nutritional Information of Flax Seed Percentages are relative to the US recommendations for adults. (Source: USDA Nutritional Database)
Nutritional Value per 100g (3.5 oz) – 530 kcal 2230 kJ
Sugar
1.55 g
N/A
Folate
0 μg
0%
Dietary Fibre
27.3 g
N/A
Vitamin C
0.6 mg
1%
Fat
42.16 g
N/A
Calcium
255 mg
26%
Protein
18.29 g
N/A
Iron
5.73 mg
46%
Thiamin
1.644 mg
126%
Magnesium
392 mg
106%
Riboflavin
0.161 mg
11%
Phosphorus
642 mg
92%
Niacin
3.08 mg
21%
Potassium
813 mg
17%
Pantothenic Acid
0.985 mg
20%
Zinc
4.34mg
43%
Vitamin B6
0.473 mg
36%
Fatty Acid Information of Flax Seed Oil (Source: Flax Council of Canada)
Fatty Acid Breakdown
%/100Saturated
Fatty Acids
9
Monounsaturated
18
Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids
57
• Omega-6 Fatty Acids
16
Fixed Oil Which Increases Effectiveness of Mucilage.
Linamarin Which Contains a Very Low Amount of
Hydrocyanic. Linamarin Is a Glycoside. Hydrocyanic
Is a Toxic Substance, but the Rate Contained by the
Plant Is So Low That it Does Not Pose Any Danger
Even If Used in High Doses.
It contains about 41%, oil Omega 3 and 6 at
73% and oleic, linoleic, palmitic and alpha-linoleic at
remaining rates.
Available Forms:
Flaxseed oil should be refrigerated. Use whole
flaxseeds within 24 hours of grinding, otherwise the
ingredients lose their activity. Flaxseeds are also
available ground in a special mylar package so that
the components in the flaxseeds stay active. Ripe
seeds, linseed cakes, powder, capsules, and flaxseed
oil are all available at health food and grocery stores.
How to Take It:
Pediatric
Flaxseed oil may be added to a child's diet to
help balance fatty acids. If an infant is breastfed, the
mother may ingest oil or fresh ground seed to
increase fat content in breast milk. See adult dosage
below.
Children (2 - 12 years): 1 teaspoonful (tsp) daily
of ground flaxseeds, or 1 tsp of fresh flaxseed oil for
constipation.
Adult
Flaxseed: Take 1 tablespoonful (tbsp), 2 - 3
times daily or 2 - 4 tbsp, 1 time daily. Grind before
eating and take with lots of water.
Flaxseed oil: Take 1 - 2 tablespoonfuls daily, or
1 - 2 capsules daily. Flaxseed oil is often used in a
liquid form, which contains approximately 7 g of
ALA per 15 mL tbsp, and contains approximately
130 calories.
As a substitute for fish oil, a dose of 7.2 grams
of flaxseed is approximately equivalent to 1 gram of
fish oil.
Precautions:
The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to
strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs,
however, contain components that can trigger side
effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or
medications. For these reasons, herbs should be taken
with care, under the supervision of a health care
provider qualified in the field of botanical medicine.
C Although studies have found that regular
consumption of fish (which includes the omega-3
fatty acids EPA and DHA) may reduce the risk
of macular degeneration, a recent study including
two large groups of men and women found that
diets rich in ALA may increase the risk of this
disease. Ask your health care provider.
C Flaxseed may slow down the absorption of oral
medications or other nutrients if taken at the
same time. Therefore, flaxseed should be
ingested several hours before, or after medicines
or supplements. Talk to your health care
provider before taking flaxseed if you regularly
take any prescription or nonprescription
medications, or dietary supplements.
C People with either diabetes or schizophrenia may
lack the ability to convert ALA to EPA and
DHA, the forms of omega-3 fatty acids that are
generally made from ALA and are more readily
used by the body. Therefore, people with these
conditions should obtain their omega-3 fatty
acids directly from dietary sources rich in EPA
and DHA, such as cold water fish (including
mackerel, salmon, or whitefish).
C Do not use flaxseed products or ALA if you
have diabetes, prostate problems, breast cancer,
or schizophrenia without the advice and
supervision of a qualified health care provider.
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Possible Interactions:
Refrences
Flaxseed supplements may alter the effects of
some prescription and nonprescription medications. If
you are currently being treated with any of the
following medications, you should not use flaxseed
without first talking to your health care provider:
1.
2.
Blood-Thinning Medications
Omega-3 fatty acids may increase the effects of
blood-thinning medications, including aspirin and
warfarin. While the combination of aspirin and
omega-3 fatty acids may be helpful under certain
circumstances (such as heart disease), they should
only be taken together under the guidance and
supervision of a qualified health care provider.
Diabetic Medications
If you are taking medicines for diabetes,
including insulin, you should only use flaxseed
(ALA) under the supervision of a qualified health
care provider.
Oral Contraceptives or Hormonal replacement
therapy (HRT) -- Flaxseed may alter hormonal levels
and alter the effects of oral contraceptives or HRT.
Only use flaxseed under the supervision of a
qualified health care provider if you are taking
hormonal altering medications such as oral
contraceptives or HRT.
Other
Avoid taking flaxseed at the same time of day as
medications and other supplements, as it may slow
down the absorption of oral medications or other
nutrients if taken at the same time. Take the flaxseed
either 1 hour before or 2 hours after taking any
prescription or nonprescription medicine or dietary
supplement.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Other Places of Use:
Obtained from seeds of the plant and frequently
utilized in dyeing, linoleum manufacturing, and
sometimes food industries, this oil is called flax seed
or linseed oil. Linseed oil is the top quality and
active oil at the highest rate among vegetable oils.
Flax seed oil contains Omega-3 fatty acid. After
crushing seeds of the plant and draining the oil, its
remaining pulp makes a valuable animal feed. Fibers
obtained from the body of flax are used in textile
industry, as to manufacture flax yarn. Gathering –
Storing: Seeds are generally gathered in the month of
September after they are ripe thoroughly, and when
flower capsules gets brown well enough. Seeds are
dried fairly well after blending thoroughly by using
a thresher.
11.
12.
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