Flaxseed

Introduction

This fact sheet provides basic information about flaxseed and flaxseed oil, including familiar names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for further information. Flaxseed is derived from the flax plant, believed to have originated in Egypt. It is cultivated in Canada and the northwestern United States, and flaxseed oil is extracted from it.

Common Names

• Flaxseed
• Linseed

Latin Names

• Linum usitatissimum

What It Is Used For

• Laxative: Flaxseed is primarily used as a laxative.
• Menopausal Symptoms: It is also used for alleviating hot flashes and breast pain.
• Arthritis: Flaxseed oil is utilized for various conditions, including arthritis.
• Cholesterol and Cancer Prevention: Both flaxseed and flaxseed oil have been explored for their potential to lower cholesterol levels and prevent cancer.

How It Is Used

Flaxseed can be consumed whole or crushed, mixed with water or juice, or in powder form. Flaxseed oil comes in both liquid and capsule forms. Notably, flaxseed contains lignans (phytoestrogens), while flaxseed oil does not.

What the Science Says

• Laxative Effect: Flaxseed contains soluble fiber, similar to oat bran, making it an effective laxative.
• Cholesterol Studies: Research on flaxseed’s ability to lower cholesterol has yielded mixed results.
• Heart Disease: Some studies suggest that alpha-linolenic acid (found in flaxseed and flaxseed oil) may benefit heart disease patients, but reliable data is lacking.
• Hot Flashes: Research results regarding flaxseed’s effectiveness in reducing hot flashes is inconsistent.
• Ongoing Research: The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) is funding studies on flaxseed, focusing on its effects on cholesterol and its potential role in preventing heart disease and osteoporosis.

Side Effects and Cautions

• Tolerance: Flaxseed and flaxseed oil supplements are generally well tolerated, with few reported side effects.
• Water Intake: Flaxseed should be taken with ample water to prevent worsening constipation or, in rare cases, intestinal blockage.
• Medication Absorption: Flaxseed’s fiber may interfere with the absorption of orally taken medications. Therefore, it is advisable not to take flaxseed simultaneously with conventional oral medications or other dietary supplements.
• Communication with Healthcare Providers: Inform providers about complementary and alternative practices to ensure coordinated and safe care.

Sources

• Flaxseed and flaxseed oil information can be found on the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database and the Natural Standard Database.
• For more detailed information, visit the NCCIH National Institutes of Health.