Flaxseed (Linseed)

Basic Information

Biological name (genus and species):
Linum usitatissimum
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Seeds
Chemicals this herb contains:
Gum (See Glossary)
Fixed oil (See Glossary)
Linamarin
Mucilage (See Glossary)
Protein
Tannins (See Glossary)
Wax (See Glossary)

KNOWN EFFECTS

Protects scraped tissues. Forms bulk in intestinal tract. Interferes with absorption of iron and other minerals when taken internally.

Miscellaneous information
All parts of flax can contain toxic chemicals, but immature seeds grown in warm climates may have higher toxic concentrations. Linamarin may be converted to cyanide in the body.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Soothes coughs. Oil softens or smoothes skin. Is used as a bulk-forming laxative. Is used for poultices to apply to chest for colds and coughs. (See Glossary)

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Don't take if you:
Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan pregnancy in the near future.

Consult your doctor if you:
Take this herb for any medical problem that doesn't improve in 2 weeks. There may be safer, more-effective treatments. Take any medicinal drugs or herbs including aspirin, laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or non-prescription drugs.

Pregnancy:
Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don't use.

Breast-feeding:
Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don't use.

Infants and children:
Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation is hazardous.

Others:
None expected if you are beyond childhood and under 45, basically healthy and take for only a short time.

Storage:
Keep cool and dry, but don't freeze. Store safely away from children.

Safe dosage:
At present no "safe" dosage has been established.

TOXICITY

Comparative-toxicity rating not available from standard
references.
For symptoms of toxicity: See Adverse Reactions, Side Effects or Overdose Symptoms section below.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS