The unique benefits of flax for he alth and beauty are determined by its seeds (the so-called linseed), which are like a well-stocked pharmacy. Linen not only prevents constipation and supports weight loss. The mucus compounds in the flax seeds coat the stomach lining, soothing the ulcer. Learn about other healing properties of linseed oil and the use of linseed in cosmetics.

For herbalists, the raw material is flax seeds, fine and shiny, called linseed. They contain mucus compounds, proteins, sterols, organic acids (including ascorbic acid), enzymes, and mineral s alts (including magnesium, zinc, iron). Above all, however, they are rich in oil, which contains glycerides of unsaturated acids (including linolenic and linoleic acids), slightly less glycerides of saturated acids, as well as phytosterols and vitamin E.

In medicine, whole seeds are used, as well as the oil and expeller pressed from them, i.e. linseed meal. They are applied externally to compresses or in the form of liniments and internally.

Linseedis known primarily for its beneficial effects in peptic ulcer disease. The mucilages contained in the seeds coat the mucous membranes of the esophagus, stomach and partially the duodenum, protecting them against aggressive hydrochloric acid and reducing inflammatory reactions. The seed is also a good antitussive, effective especially in bronchitis, but also helps in skin diseases, burns and frostbite treatment.Linseed oilaccelerates the regeneration of the epidermis and mucous membranes, but it is most valued for the fact that it reduces the level of lipids and sugar in the blood.

Important

Linseed heals the skin, lowers the level of bad cholesterol. The oil squeezed from these seeds is one of the he althiest fats in the world.

Collecting flax

Linenripens in July and August. Harvesting begins when the plants are still greenish yellow - they are uprooted and left to dry in the field. The seeds ripen during drying, then they turn brown. After threshing and cleaning, it is best to store them in a paper bag. It is best to grind the seeds just before use.

Healing effects of linen

Linseed oil is edible, but as a cholesterol lowering agent it is better to take it in the form of capsules. On the other hand, there is flaxseed in herbal mixturesor linseed meal. These are preparations that protect the gastrointestinal mucosa, especially the stomach. They are recommended in peptic ulcer disease, and the addition of appropriate herbs (e.g. chamomile, licorice, mint, lemon balm) makes them also anti-inflammatory and relaxing.

Read also>>How to dose linseed oil <<

  • Linen moisturizes the skin

Unsaturated fatty acids, abundant in linseed oil, affect the functioning of membranes and intercellular spaces, preventing water loss through the outer layers of the skin and maintaining an optimal level of skin hydration. In addition, vitamin E improves the lipid barrier of the epidermis, which makes the skin more resistant to moisture loss and retains its elasticity for longer.

  • Linen strengthens the hair

Thanks to the vitamins and minerals contained in flax seeds and linseed oil, the scalp is well nourished, and fatty acids ensure its optimal level of hydration. After oiling dry, damaged hair, it becomes soft and bouncy, perfectly moisturized.

  • Linen prevents constipation

The lignans (phytohormones) and fiber found in the linseed perfectly affect digestion and proper intestinal peristalsis, and the mucilages also have a softening and relaxing effect. As a result, flaxseed effectively prevents constipation and helps to maintain the proper rhythm of bowel movements.

  • Linen cares for the complexion

Linseed oil and cosmetics with its addition are great for not only dry skin, but are also suitable for oily skin - they help regulate the level of sebum secreted, prevent clogging of the pores and the formation of blackheads. Additionally, the fatty acids contained in the oil, to some extent, activate the skin's natural protection against UV radiation and prevent sunburn, and vitamin E protects it against oxidative stress and premature aging of the epidermis.

  • Linen helps with bronchitis

Hoarseness, cough, colds, bronchitis - in all these cases an infusion of linseed can be helpful. Flaxseed mucus soothes the unproductive (dry) cough reflex, while in wet cough it helps to clear the bronchial secretions from the bronchi.

  • Linen protects the stomach

Linseed infusions are an ally of people suffering from gastric and duodenal ulcers. Since flaxseed contains large amounts of mucus, it coats the mucosa of the esophagus, stomach and stomach with a thin layer.partially duodenum, shielding them from the aggressive effects of digestive acids. Flax mucus is quite resistant to hydrolysing agents and does not change its viscosity for a long time. In this way, it supports the treatment of peptic ulcer disease and temporarily relieves symptoms associated with it - pain, burning, heartburn.

  • Linen helps you lose weight

The lignans contained in linseed oil act similarly to the female hormones - estrogens, which influence, among others, on the metabolic rate and carbohydrate management of the body. By introducing oil into your daily diet, you can count on getting rid of unnecessary kilograms easier, because it will help to speed up metabolism, facilitate the conversion of food into energy instead of fat, and also stimulate the production of bile that breaks down fats.

  • Flax regulates cholesterol

Linseed oil is a real benefactor for the circulatory system. Phytosterols and unsaturated fatty acids remove excess bad LDL cholesterol from the body and at the same time increase the level of good HDL. In addition, these beneficial acids affect the dilatation of the coronary vessels and increase the strength of myocardial contraction, reduce the risk of hypertension, atherosclerosis and heart disease.

You must do it

Flax seed decoction

Pour a glass of lukewarm water over a tablespoon of linseed and cook, covered, slowly for 15 minutes. Set aside to cool the decoction, strain. Drink half a glass twice a day to soothe stomach irritations.

Flax seed infusion

Pour a glass of boiling water over a tablespoon of linseed and leave it covered for 15 minutes. Drink the infusion in the morning and evening in case of constipation, and also to cleanse the bronchi of the secretions remaining in them. You can also wash the skin with the infusion in case of shingles, psoriasis, and boils.

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Alternative medicine