Flaxseed Oil

Flaxseed Oil, an extract of flaxseed, is loaded with essential fatty acids such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, C, E, K and B vitamins and minerals such as iron, potassium, calcium, sodium and zinc. Also called linseed oil, flaxseed oil aids in treating a wide range of medical conditions.

Health Benefits

Flaxseed oil reduces high cholesterol.

It reduces risk of heart conditions. By lowering high blood pressure and protecting against angina, flaxseed oil assists in heart health. Omega-3 fatty acid in flaxseed oil reduces risk of heart conditions.

Flaxseed oil is a rich source of dietary fibre and hence it alleviates constipation. It is used in the treatment of inflammatory bowel condition. It helps ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

Flaxseed oil assists in skin health. Essential fatty acids in flaxseed oil aid in treating skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, eczema and rosacea.

Flaxseed oil contains lignans, which protect against cancer in skin, breast, prostate and colon. Lignans block enzymes involved in metabolism of hormone and checks growth of cancer cells.

Flaxseed oil promotes hair and nail health. Essential fatty acids again play a role here too by nourishing the hair and treating brittle nails. It treats dandruff, retains moisture in hair and keeps your hair healthy.

Owing to the presence of lignans and estrogens, which stabilize the ratio of estrogen and progesterone in women, flaxseed oil works for symptoms associated with menstrual cycle. It treats symptoms of menopause. By blocking the production of prostaglandins, flaxseed oil addresses heavy bleeding during menstruation.

Flaxseed oil prevents and dissolves stones in the gallbladder.

Flaxseed oil is used in the treatment of Parkinson’s, a condition in which the nervous system degenerates. It is also helpful in protecting against nervous conditions associated with diabetes.

Lignans in flaxseed oil fight aging and reduce symptoms associated with aging.

Flaxseed oil assists in liver health too.

Flaxseed oil ensures eye health. It reduces symptoms of dry eyes. Fatty acids in flaxseed oil reduce risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.

Arthritis symptoms can be reduced by using flaxseed oil. Alpha-linolenic acid in flaxseed oil converts into omega 3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for arthritic conditions including joint pain and stiffness.

Flaxseed oil treats infertility in both men and women. It improves blood flow to penis and aids in treating impotence.

The antioxidant properties of vitamins A and C in flaxseed oil aid in preventing free radical damage. The antioxidants postpone aging as well. Along with vitamin E, yet another anti-aging vitamin, the combination prevents cell degeneration and keeps you young.

Vitamin C in flaxseed oil promotes healthy bones and muscles. It also helps to maintain blood cholesterol levels thereby preventing risk of coronary heart condition.

Flaxseed oil is effective for depression. Studies show that docosahexaenoic and eicosapentaenoic acids are lower in those who are depressed. Flaxseed oil contains these acids and hence reduces symptoms associated with depression.

Side Effects

Those who are diabetic should seek professional guidance regarding use of flaxseed oil as it may not be possible for them to convert ALA to EPA and DHA to be used immediately by the body. Flaxseed oil may interact with other medications and hence it is highly recommended to use the supplement after seeking your physician’s advice. Using flaxseed oil along with other medications at the same time may hinder absorption of medications taken orally. Hence, it is best to avoid taking both at the same time.