As a laxative, 10 g of the uncrushed or freshly ground flaxseed (1 teaspoon equals about 4 g) can be taken with plenty of liquid at each meal.
For the treatment of intestinal inflammation, pre-swelling with plenty of liquid is recommended. In case of gastritis, flaxseed can be taken in the form of mucilage. For this purpose, prepare 5-10 g of the uncrushed seeds with 150 ml of cold water, let it steep for about 20-30 minutes and then pour off the liquid.
It is recommended to still drink some liquid afterwards.
For external use, 30-50 g of flax seeds can be used to make a moist hot poultice.
Flaxseed in finished products
In commerce, there are also numerous herbal medicines that contain flaxseed. For example, these can be taken in the form of capsules. In many combination preparations, flaxseed is included as a filler or excipient.
Average daily dose
Internally, one tablespoon (1 tablespoon equals about 10 g) each of the uncrushed or “digested” seeds can be taken 2-3 times daily, along with about 150 ml of liquid each time. “Pulped” means that the seeds are not crushed, but merely bruised.
Alternatively, especially in cases of inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, 2-3 tablespoons of the ground or crushed flax seeds can be made into a mucilage (see under “Dosage Form”). Children between 6 and 12 years of age should use only half of the indicated dosage at a time.
Flaxseed – preparation and storage
Tea preparation from flaxseed is not common.
Flaxseeds should be stored in a dry place away from light.
When not to take flaxseed?
Flaxseeds must not be taken in case of an existing or even imminent intestinal obstruction, as well as constipation. Other contraindications to use include:
- Narrowing of the esophagus (difficulty swallowing!) and other sections of the intestine.
- Acute inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative collitis.
- Diseases of the gastric inlet
- Abdominal pain of unclear cause
- Nausea
- Vomiting
What should be considered during use?
When taking flaxseed, you should always make sure to drink enough liquid. A guideline is 150 ml per single dose of flaxseed taken. Failure to do so may cause flaxseed to swell prematurely and clog the throat or esophagus.
In case of prolonged constipation and irregularity of stool, as well as complaints in the gastrointestinal tract of unclear origin, a doctor should be consulted.
For external use, if there is severe redness of the wound edges, discharge of pus, and heavily weeping wounds, medical attention is also required.
