Products
Flaxseed and flax oil are available in pharmacies and drugstores, among other places. They are also included in medicinal products.
Stem plant
Linaceae, seed flax, flax.
Medicinal drug
Linseed (Lini semen), the dried, ripe seeds of L. Linseed oil and linseed meal are also prepared from the seeds as a medicinal raw material.
Ingredients
- Mucilage in the seed coat
- Dietary fiber
- Fatty oil: linseed oil with linoleic acid and linolenic acid
- Phosphatides
- Cyanogenic glycosides
Effects
Flaxseeds have laxative, anti-irritant and mucosal properties.
Indications for use
- Constipation
- Irritable bowel syndrome, gastritis, enteritis
- Substitution with unsaturated fatty acids
Dosage
2 to 3 times a day, take 1 tablespoon (equivalent to about 10 grams) of uncrushed or digested seeds with sufficient liquid. Follow up with another glass. Drink sufficient liquid during the day. The effect occurs after 18 to 24 hours. The seeds are swallowed unchewed because of the calories. They can be lightly nudged. Flaxseed meal for warmth compresses e.g. for rheumatic complaints: Mix equal parts water and flaxseed meal in a pan and heat to make a paste. Spread the paste on a gauze. Seal well. Control temperature to avoid burns! Attach to desired area, cover and leave to act for about half an hour.
Contraindications
Intestinal obstruction, narrowing of the gastrointestinal tract.
Interactions
May affect absorption of other agents. Take other drugs at intervals.
Adverse effects
Toxicity: possible cleavage of hydrocyanic acid from cyanogenic glycosides, harmless according to literature. If there are concerns, alternative plants can be used (e.g., Indian psyllium). None known when ingested with sufficient water.
