Although it has been around for more than 4,000 years, the flax plant is surprisingly versatile. Various parts of this plant can be used to create soap, dye, paper, and fabric. In addition, the seeds of the flax plant can be used to create a beneficial nutritional supplement.

What is Flax Seed Oil?

Flax seed oil supplements are a rich source of Omega 3 essential fatty acid, Omega 6 essential fatty acid, and alpha linolenic fatty acids. Flax seed oil also contains significant amounts of fiber, protein, and lignans.

Flax seed oil supplements are fairly inexpensive and come in many different forms. The most common forms are soft gel capsules and a liquid that can be easily mixed into juices or other drinks. In addition, you can purchase seeds to use on salads, cereals, or breads. Since the various forms of flax seed oil offer the same nutritional benefits, choosing a supplement is a matter of your personal preference.

In most cases, nutrition experts recommend you take at least 1,000 mg of flax seed oil one to three times each day. However, it is possible to use up to 30 grams per day without harmful side effects. 

Flax Seed Oil Benefits

While flax seed oil is most often used by people seeking to lower their risk of developing coronary heart disease, research has show that supplements can assist in treating or preventing many different conditions. For example:

• Since they contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, flax seeds are an effective remedy for constipation.
• Flax seed oil is sometimes used in the treatment of skin conditions such as dandruff, psoriasis, and eczema.
• Since it reduces inflammation, flax seed oil benefits people with lupus or arthritis.
• Flax seed oil helps athletes by shortening the recovery time for fatigued muscles, increasing stamina, and providing extra energy.
• Flax seed oil is sometimes used to treat cases of mild depression or to reduce the symptoms of PMS in women.
• Since it’s rich in lignan, flax seed oil reduces the risk of colon and breast cancer.
• Some studies have indicated that supplements can help people suffering from obesity lose weight more easily by increasing the base metabolic rate.
• Flax seed oil may help people suffering from allergies or asthma.
• Recent studies have shown that flax seed oil appears to help heal the inner lining of the intestines, making this supplement beneficial for people suffering from Crohn’s Disease or Colitis.
• The Omega 3 fatty acids in flax seed oil may reduce the risk of macular degeneration, a serious condition that leads to blindness by damaging nerve cells in the eyes.

While the benefits of flax seed oil can be quite significant, this dietary supplement is not recommended for everyone. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid this supplement. In addition, flax seed oil is not intended for infants or young children.

There are no known drug interactions associated with flax seed oil, although you should always let your physician know which dietary supplements you are taking. The most common side effect of flax seed oil supplements is mild diarrhea.

by Dana Hinders