The benefits of flaxseed and flaxseed oil are numerous! Flaxseed comes from a blue flowering plant located on the western prairies of Canada. The plant, linum usitatissimum, bears fruit. Inside the fruit lies glossy brown seeds. These seeds are best digested when ground to a fine texture or used as oil. A clear to yellowish oil is pressed from these seeds, called flaxseed oil or linseed oil. Flaxseed has a sweet and nutty flavor. Flaxseed and flaxseed oil offer many healthful benefits and are used a variety of ways!

BENEFITS OF FLAXSEED / FLAXSEED OIL:

FIBER:

The fiber found in flaxseed oil contains a balance of soluble and insoluble fiber. This fiber helps clean the colon, inhibits the formation of disease causing organisms in the intestine, stabilizes blood sugar levels and is a natural laxative. Fiber maintains proper functioning of the digestive system and acts like a sweeper, cleaning the colon of toxins, metabolic waste and dried mucus.

PROTEIN:

Flaxseed oil provides essential protein for the body. It is considered to be a complete amino acid, essential for healthy metabolism and the absorption of nutrients. Its high quality protein source helps maintain healthy hair, skin and nails. Its protein source increases energy, as well! For every 100 grams of flaxseeds, you average 25 to 30 grams of protein.

LIGNANS: (Natural Anti-Bacterial Nutrients)

One hundred times more lignans are found in flaxseeds than wheat bran, rye, oats, and soybeans. Lignans have anti-viral, anti-tumor, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties. They reduce the activity of free radicals and flush excess estrogen out of the body, reducing estrogen-linked cancers. Lignans are found in flaxseeds themselves but not in the extracted oil. Some brands have lignans added during the production phase.

MUCILAGE:

Mucilage forms from flaxseeds after soaking them for about thirty minutes. This mucilage has the consistency of light oil, which lubricates and absorbs toxins, well. It helps to prevent toxic build up in the bowels and makes a gentle, non-irritating, laxative.

VITAMINS & MINERALS:

Flaxseeds contain an impressive list of vitamins and minerals including: vitamin B1, B2, B6, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, calcium, sulfur, potassium, phosphorous, manganese, silicon, copper, nickel, molybdenum, chromium, cobalt, iron, carotene, zinc, magnesium, riboflavin, niacin, folate, selenium and pantothenic acid. The benefits of vitamins and minerals maintain healthy cardiovascular system, colon, brain function, skin, boosts immunity, metabolic system, circulatory system, and more!

ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS: Omega 3 & Omega 6

Omega 3 fatty acids lower LDL, (bad cholesterol), improves brain function, (memory, performance, behavioral functions), lowers risk of heart disease, lowers blood pressure, reduces risk of estrogen linked cancer, reduces symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, (joint pain and morning stiffness), and reduces inflammation.

Omega 6 fatty acids improve brain function, stimulate skin and hair growth, maintain healthy bones, regulate metabolism and maintain the reproductive system. Both omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids are necessary for human wellbeing. Since the body cannot make these essential fatty acids, they must be found in external sources.

HOMEMADE SKIN CARE:

Flaxseed improves skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, inflammation, acne, rosacea, dry and mature skin by providing healthy cellular activity and skin regeneration. It softens skin, heals abrasions, reduces scars, heals burns, reduces the redness of rashes, and reduces inflammation. When combining this natural oil with calendula oil and mango butter, it is healing for dry skin, dry flaky skin, dry scaly skin and more. Flaxseed can be used for making homemade soap, lotions, creams, balms and more. Flaxseed is well known for its overall healthful skin care benefits!

Flaxseed can be used internally and externally. Internally, you can sprinkle ground up flaxseeds on foods like oatmeal, mixed vegetables, cereals and breads. Instead of grinding up flaxseeds, some find it easier to take a recommended dosage of flaxseed oil. Add this natural oil to a protein shake or just a glass of water. The health benefits of flaxseed oil and flaxseed are numerous!

Externally, flaxseed or flaxseed oil can be used in making homemade lotion, soaps, creams, balms and other homemade skin care products! You can improve your overall health, inside and out, with the benefits of flaxseed and flaxseed oil!