The flax plant’s scientific name is Linum usitatissimum. It is a flowering plant belonging to the family Linaceae. The seeds of this plant, called flaxseeds, are rich in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). These seeds also contain phytoestrogens. Flaxseed oil, also called flax oil or linseed oil, is extracted by grinding and pressing flax seeds to release their natural oil.
Phytoestrogen
Phytoestrogens are naturally occurring plant compounds with estrogen-like properties. Flaxseeds contain lignans, a type of phytoestrogen, which can help maintain hormone levels, particularly in women. These plant components can help treat hormonal imbalances and alleviate symptoms experienced during menopause, such as hot flashes and mood swings. Additionally, some research has found that these naturally occurring flaxseed phytoestrogens can help reduce the risk of breast cancer and other hormone-related cancers by modulating the body’s estrogen metabolism.
Flaxseed Oil Benefits
When considering the benefits of flaxseed oil, regular consumption can improve heart health by lowering blood pressure, reducing inflammation, and decreasing cholesterol levels. It also boasts anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate symptoms of arthritis and promote healthy skin by reducing dryness and irritation. Additionally, it helps relieve constipation by lubricating the digestive tract.
The phytoestrogens in flax seed oil can balance women’s hormone levels, lessening menopausal symptoms like mood swings and hot flashes. Because of its rich nutrient profile, flax seed oil is a versatile addition to a healthy diet, supporting weight management, immune system strength, and brain health.
01. Flaxseed Oil and Cardiovascular Health
Flaxseed oil, rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), offers several heart health benefits. Studies have shown that regular consumption of flaxseed oil can lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and decrease cholesterol levels(Paschos et al., 2007). ALA, a type of omega-3 fatty acid, is known to have a cardioprotective effect, contributing to these positive outcomes.
Additionally, flax seed oil can help reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries, by lowering serum lipids and exhibiting antioxidant activity. These combined effects make flaxseed oil a valuable addition to a heart-healthy diet.
02. Anti-inflammatory properties
Because of its strong anti-inflammatory properties, flaxseed oil is beneficial for people with chronic inflammatory diseases such as arthritis. Flax seed oil’s omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce joint stiffness and pain and improve mobility and quality of life.
03. Skin Health
Flaxseed oil benefits the skin by keeping it hydrated and reducing dryness. It also helps improve skin texture and manage conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Its antioxidants protect the skin from damage and help maintain a youthful appearance.
In a study with 26 female participants, flaxseed oil was found to significantly reduce skin sensitivity, water loss, roughness, and flaking, while increasing softness and hydration. It also improves the ratio of certain fatty acids in the blood(Neukam et al., 2011).
One of the chronic inflammatory skin diseases is atopic dermatitis, characterized by redness, eczema, and itching. Research involving mice investigated the effects of fermented flax seed oil, and the results indicated that the symptoms of atopic dermatitis were reduced with its use (Yang et al., 2017).
04. Digestive Health
Flaxseed oil supports a healthy digestive system by lubricating the digestive tract, which helps prevent constipation and promotes regular bowel movements. It also soothes the intestinal lining, which eases the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other digestive problems.
05. Weight Management
Adding flaxseed oil to your diet can help control weight. The healthy fats in the oil make you feel full and satisfied, which can reduce overeating. It helps stabilize blood sugar levels, prevents hunger and overeating.
06. Hormonal Balance
Flaxseed oil contains plant compounds called lignans that have estrogen-like effects. These help balance hormones, especially in women, and may ease menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings.
07. Brain Health
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseed oil supports brain health. Regular use improves cognitive function, improves memory and reduces the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
08. Immune Support
The oil’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help boost the immune system, making it easier to fight infections and maintain overall health.
Reference
Paschos, G. K., Magkos, F., Panagiotakos, D. B., Votteas, V., & Zampelas, A. (2007). Dietary supplementation with flaxseed oil lowers blood pressure in dyslipidaemic patients. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 61(10), 1201–1206. https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.ejcn.1602631
Kaithwas, G., Mukherjee, A., Chaurasia, A., Dipak, amp;, & Majumdar, K. (2011). Antiinflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic activities of Linum usitatissimum L. (flaxseed/linseed) fixed oil. Indian Journal of Experimental Biology, 49, 932–938. https://nopr.niscpr.res.in/bitstream/123456789/13100/1/IJEB%2049%2812%29%20932-938.pdf
Neukam, K., De Spirt, S., Stahl, W., Bejot, M., Maurette, J.-M. ., Tronnier, H., & Heinrich, U. (2011). Supplementation of flaxseed oil diminishes skin sensitivity and improves skin barrier function and condition. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 24(2), 67–74. https://doi.org/10.1159/000321442
Yang, J., Min, S., & Hong, S. (2017). Therapeutic Effects of Fermented Flax Seed Oil on NC/Nga Mice with Atopic Dermatitis-Like Skin Lesions. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2017, 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/5469125
