Herb library

Flaxseed

Linum usitatissimum

Flaxseed, the small brown or golden seed of Linum usitatissimum, is a kitchen staple in many households. Traditionally used as a gentle demulcent and source of slippery mucilage, it is kept on the shelf for soothing digestive and throat complaints and for adding body to porridges and breads.

Traditionally used for.

• •Traditionally used as a gentle demulcent for soothing irritated throats and coughs, taken as a warm flaxseed tea or syrup.
• •Traditionally used as a softening, bulk-forming remedy for mild constipation or to support regular bowel movements when soaked or ground into foods.
• •Traditionally used as a topical poultice or warm compress to soothe minor skin irritation and draw moisture to dry, rough patches.
• •Long-standing household use for adding nourishing oil and a silky texture to porridges, baked goods, and homemade infant-freezing-age recipes (note: honey not for children under one).

Simple preparations.

• •Flaxseed tea: Simmer 1 tablespoon whole or lightly crushed flaxseeds in 1 cup water for 10 minutes, strain through a fine sieve, sip warm. Take 2 to 3 times a day as needed for throat soothing or a gentle mucilaginous drink.
• •Flaxseed soak/gelling: Soak 1 to 2 tablespoons whole seeds in 1 cup cold water for at least 4 hours or overnight until jellylike. Take 1 to 2 tablespoons of the gel with food to help ease stool passage, or stir into porridge or yogurt once daily.
• •Warm flaxseed poultice: Grind 2 to 3 tablespoons whole seeds coarsely, heat gently in a dry pan to warm (do not burn), wrap in a clean cloth and apply as a warm compress to the affected skin area for 15 to 20 minutes, repeat 2 to 3 times daily as needed.

Cautions.

• !Flaxseed is high in fiber and mucilage, start with small amounts and increase slowly to avoid bloating, gas, or cramping.
• !Ground flaxseed can spoil more quickly than whole seed; store in the refrigerator in a sealed container and use within a few weeks.
• !Because flaxseed can affect absorption and has mild blood thinning qualities in some people, check with your doctor before use if you take blood-thinning or hormone-related medications, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Often kept beside.