Flax seeds: useful properties and contraindications, how to take, reviews

2024 Author: Isabella Gilson | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:14

We are most familiar with the use of flax as a raw material for making ropes and fabrics. However, this low plant from the oil family, pleasing to the eye with its blue flowers, is the source of the most valuable product for human he alth. Flaxseed is obtained from it.

And it is not for nothing that the word “flax” is translated from Latin as “the most useful”. The seeds of this plant contain a whole storehouse of unique fats and valuable substances necessary for the body to maintain he alth, beauty and youth.

A bit of history

Cultivation of flax by man was started many centuries ago. Historians know for certain that in ancient Egypt, the fibers of this plant served as raw materials for the manufacture of the finest fabrics. Most likely, already then flax seeds were used for medicinal, food and cosmetic purposes.

Ibn Sina and Hippocrates wrote about the wonderful qualities of this gift of nature. Medieval healers also had an idea about the benefits of flax seeds. In Russia, a plant with blue flowers is cultivated andused since about the 9th century.

Today, a lot is known about the benefits and harms of flax seeds to those who are a supporter of a he althy lifestyle. People who actively use what is given to us by nature use this product as a universal remedy for getting rid of many diseases and as a valuable food supplement. So, they use the seeds in their raw form, prepare infusions and goods from them, and also grind them into flour, adding them to pastries or cereals.

The properties possessed by flax seeds, as well as its derivatives, continue to be investigated by the largest scientific centers around the world. This product has found wide application in the countries of Western Europe and in America. As for Russia, here flax seeds are not yet so popular. How can this be explained? Quite possibly, due to the fact that the amazing properties of flax seeds are far from known to many.

Appearance and release form

What are flax seeds? These are fruits of an oblate, unequal-sided shape, which are somewhat rounded on one side, and pointed on the other. At the same time, their surface is shiny and smooth. When viewed through a 10x magnifying glass, a light yellow seminal hilum can be seen.

Flax seeds are up to 3 mm thick and up to 6 mm long. Fruit color varies. Its borders are in the spectrum from yellowish tones to deep brown. The seeds have no smell.

Flax fruits are sold in bags frompolyethylene or paper. There may be different quantities in the package. This is 50 or 75, as well as 100 or 150 grams.

Composition

What valuable substances do flax seeds contain? The most beneficial of its many components are:

1. Omega-3. According to the content of these polyunsaturated fatty acids, flax seeds are ahead of only salmon and fish oil. But omega-3 is a vital element of cell membranes, on the state of which many metabolic processes occurring in the body directly depend. In addition, Oomega-3 is a powerful antioxidant. Due to the fact that PFAs are practically not formed in the human body, it becomes necessary to ensure the supply of these acids from outside to maintain he alth.
2. Lignans, which are classified as phytohormones. It is worth noting that these valuable substances contain only flax seeds. There are no lignans in the oil obtained from them. The action of these phytohormones is still being actively studied, but very interesting results have already been obtained to date, giving reason to believe that their use can provide invaluable assistance in the treatment and prevention of oncology. And first of all, this applies to malignant tumors of the hormone-dependent type.
3. Fiber. A lot is already known about the benefits of this substance. Fiber is a very valuable component necessary for the normal functioning of the intestines.

In addition to these substances, the benefits of flax seeds are also manifested due to their constituents:

• vitamins of group B (1, 2, 6 and 9), choline, vitamin PP and K, E andC;
• minerals: selenium and manganese, copper and zinc, iron and phosphorus, potassium and sodium, magnesium and calcium;
• mono- and disaccharides;
• proteins;
• carbs;
• vegetable styrenes, alkaloids;
• valuable amino acids (more than twenty items);
• PFA omega-6 and 9.

It is thanks to such a rich composition that flax seeds receive positive feedback. They not only give he alth, but also differ in energy value. For 100 g of seeds, their calorie content is 540 Kcal.

Useful properties

Before healing with flax seeds, the properties and contraindications of this natural product must be studied without fail. So, using it allows:

1. Normalize blood cholesterol levels, which becomes possible due to the significant content of natural phytoestrogens, into which lignans are transformed in the large intestine. These components make flax seeds a wonderful prophylactic that prevents atherosclerosis and vascular and heart diseases. The use of a natural remedy allows the body to resist oncology and such life-threatening ailments as stroke and heart attack. At the same time, it should be noted that lignans are found only in seeds, and they are absent in the oil obtained from them.
2. Eliminate malfunctions in the functioning of the cardiovascular and nervous systems. This is influenced by the omega-3 and -6 complex. Thanks to these components, chronic fatigue, depressive states are eliminated, resistance is increasedorganism to stress and harmful effects of the atmosphere. Getting enough omega fatty acids can reduce the risk of asthma and diabetes, as well as joint diseases, having a beneficial effect on the appearance and condition of nails, skin and hair.
3. Have a positive effect on the digestive organs due to the presence of fiber in the product. Soluble dietary fiber contains a high concentration of gluten. Swelling, it envelops the gastric walls, relieving inflammation and pain. Being in the digestive tract, insoluble fiber significantly slows down the process of absorption of toxins and other harmful substances. Such an effect on the body allows the use of flaxseeds for its detoxification during various kinds of poisoning. In addition, the natural product allows you to remove excess cholesterol and other carcinogens. Its use contributes to the prevention of bowel cancer. At the same time, fiber helps to improve the microflora of the gastrointestinal tract, normalizing the processes of digestion and eliminating constipation.
4. Improve metabolic processes, strengthen immunity and maintain vascular he alth, which is directly affected by the complex of trace elements and vitamins that make up the seeds. Antioxidants play a special role in this task, including vitamin E. These substances valuable for he alth prevent the formation of free radicals, protecting the body from the formation and growth of cancer cells.

Indications for use

Flax seeds, contraindications and healing properties of which should be studied before taking, are recommendedto reduce irritation that accompanies inflammatory and ulcerative diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. The list of such pathologies includes colitis and enteritis, stomach ulcers and esophagitis, gastritis, etc. In addition, the seeds are an excellent remedy for constipation. Their external use is indicated in the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases and burns.

Traditional medicine uses this remedy to treat respiratory ailments, rid the body of parasites, and also to protect all organs and systems of the body from the negative effects of radioactivity. Healing seeds are recommended for diabetes, pathologies of the urogenital tract, as well as for those ailments, the occurrence of which is associated with a lack of prostaglandins. Flaxseed is recommended in case of sexual dysfunction in women and men, with allergies, edema, and also to eliminate some mental illnesses, including schizophrenia and depression. The healing herbal product helps with drug and alcohol addiction.

Recommend a decoction of flax seeds for women and men seeking to slim and want to eliminate extra pounds. The ground product is indicated in the postoperative period. Its intake helps to strengthen the immune system and prevents the development of inflammation.

Lignans in the composition of flax seeds are an excellent support for hormonal balance and stand in the way of the development of hormone-dependent tumors. This property allows the use of plant materials for the prevention of cancer.

Selection and storage

Flax seeds are sold in stores offering he althynutrition. Moreover, they are not only brown, but also white. When choosing them, you should not pay attention to color. After all, the effect of the product in both cases will be the same. Seeds that differ in color have only a slight difference in taste. Light flax fruits are more delicate and resemble raw sesame seeds.

Purchased seeds after opening the package must be poured into a dry, tightly closed jar. It should be borne in mind that if moisture gets into the container, then the flax will immediately begin to mold and secrete mucus. Some of its useful properties in this case will be lost. The product does not require special storage conditions. It is enough if the container with it is placed in the kitchen cabinet.

Eating

How to take flax seeds? In order to strengthen the body, as well as for the purpose of prevention, the product is consumed daily in the amount of 5-10 g. If the seeds are added to drinks or ready meals, they should be crushed, doing this immediately before eating. A ground product prepared in advance oxidizes in air, losing some of its important healing properties.

Flax seeds can either be added to cereals and soups, salads, pastries or main courses, or simply eaten, after which they should be washed down with a glass of compote, water, fruit or vegetable juice. Flax combined with kefir is especially useful. In this case, plant seeds will cleanse the intestines, and beneficial lactic acid bacteria will normalize and improve the further functioning of this organ.

It is important to remember that the daily norm of a plant product should not exceed two tablespoons, otherwise harm will be received from flax seeds.

Colour Cleansing

Plant-based product is an excellent aid to the digestive system. It is especially useful to use flax seeds for the intestines. After all, every day a large amount of processed products and unnecessary substances settle on its walls. These deposits are a fertile environment for the development of putrefactive bacteria and parasites. Such pollution does not allow the colon to fully work and cleanse itself. This causes problems first with the stool, and then with he alth. The skin integument reacts very painfully to such a state of the gastrointestinal tract. Acne and inflammation begin to form on it, disturbances in the functioning of the sebaceous glands occur.

How to avoid such problems? It is enough to cleanse the intestines twice a year, using flax seeds. Recipes that include this product, folk healers offer quite a lot. From this amount, you can always take for yourself the most suitable option that will take into account the person's lifestyle and capabilities.

The easiest way is to use only the flax itself and water. To make a remedy, you need to grind 2 tbsp. l. seeds. the resulting raw material should be added to 150 milliliters of hot water. The mixture must be stirred and kept from 10 minutes to 2 hours. The finished drug is consumed on an empty stomach for 30 days daily.

You can drink healingsolution before bed. After dinner, in this case, at least 3 hours should pass. The course of such bowel cleansing with flax seeds will be 30 days. After 6 months, the drug can be started again.

You should know how to take flax seeds. Benefits for the body will be obtained only if during this period the volume of liquid drunk by a person is increased. This will allow the fiber to swell, otherwise it will not cleanse the body and will only provoke the formation of constipation.

Stomach treatment

Flax seeds, when combined with water, begin to produce mucus, which can be of great benefit to the entire digestive system. At the same time, traditional medicine recommends it for the prevention and treatment of certain gastric diseases. Reception of flax seeds is contraindicated in case of exacerbation of an ulcer or gastritis. Such a warning will help to avoid unexpected reactions.

How to take flax seeds to eliminate stomach pathologies? To do this, you need to prepare 1.5 tbsp. of this product, as well as 200 ml of water and 1 tsp. honey. If the latter of these ingredients is intolerant, it can be replaced with maple syrup. In this case, the properties of the finished product will change slightly, but this is quite acceptable. Seeds should be ground in a mortar, pouring prepared raw materials with hot water. After that, the mixture is stirred and divided into 4 portions, each of which is added ¼ teaspoon of honey. Use the drug 30 minutes before each meal, after shaking to evenly distribute the hard shells. Store the mixture in the refrigerator forthroughout one day. I drink it in a warm state, for which they warm it up a little before taking it. The course of treatment with this remedy lasts from three weeks to three months.

For women's he alth

Flax seeds not only gently cleanse the intestines. They normalize the work of the entire digestive tract, inhibiting oxidation processes, thereby slowing down the aging of the body.

Flax seeds contain such a valuable and rare element as selenium. The body needs it to form proteins, as well as to strengthen immunity, maintain normal liver function, and activate the process of excretion of heavy metal ions, including cadmium. In addition, selenium is considered a powerful carcinostatic element, and, what is very important, it is in an easily digestible form in flax seeds.

The benefits of a herbal product for women lies in its ability to:

• cleanse the body by fighting acne;
• soften PMS by eliminating discomfort and menstrual cramps;
• normalize hormonal levels;
• quickly restore the body after an abortion or miscarriage;
• eliminate discomfort during menopause.

No less valuable is the product for bringing the emotional background back to normal. It allows you to relieve tension, fight stress, as well as prolonged depression.

For men

Flax seeds are useful not only for women. For men, they also help cleanse the intestines, eliminate constipation and strengthen the immune system. But some properties of this valuable product are associated with the gender of a person. So,By eating flax seeds, men can:

• increase potency;
• improve sperm quality;
• increase body endurance;
• build muscle faster.

As a supporting agent, the product is recommended by folk healers for male infertility. In addition, it will increase endurance and give strength to those who go in for sports and hard physical labor.

To eliminate excess weight

Very often used flax seeds for weight loss. They are included in various diets to improve the functioning of the digestive tract and remove toxic substances from the body. The use of flax seeds for weight loss is also associated with their laxative properties. It is thanks to this action that the intestines get rid of the decay products that have accumulated in it for a long period. In addition to this, judging by the numerous reviews of adherents of traditional medicine recipes, the product heals, improves immunity and normalizes metabolism.

How to take flax seeds for weight loss? For this purpose, the product is consumed up to four tablespoons. during the day in a ground form, filling it with a sufficient amount of water. Reception of flax seeds for weight loss begins with a minimum dose, bringing the healing volume to 50 g per day for a week. At the same time, it is necessary to increase the amount of fluid consumed up to 2 liters during the day.

Judging by the reviews of nutritionists, to get the desired result, you will need to drink funds from flax seeds for 2 weeks. Subsequently, a seven-daybreak. Then the course of admission is repeated and lasts 2 weeks.

In order for the seeds to please with their result, it is better to combine their intake with a diet. At the same time, alternative medicine offers a lot of options for their use. For example, a daily allowance of seeds brewed with hot water can be drunk instead of dinner. Another option for drinking a drink is 100 mg an hour before each meal. Judging by the reviews of people who used flax seeds for weight loss, the addition of 2 tbsp gives a wonderful effect from their use. (shredded) in your morning oatmeal.

The number of kilograms lost will depend on the calorie content of the daily diet. At the same time, the first 1.5-3 of them will still be lost due to bowel cleansing and removal of excess fluid from the body. For those who want to lose weight in the shortest possible time, it is recommended to take flaxseed jelly in combination with a s alt-free diet.

Contraindications

It should be borne in mind that it is not always possible to use flaxseeds. Contraindications to their use are conditions such as:

• exacerbations of cholecystitis and pancreatitis;
• intestinal obstruction;
• cirrhosis of the liver, hepatitis;
• stones in the bladder or gallbladder;
• individual intolerance to any of the components of the product.

It is undesirable to take flaxseed during lactation. The fact is that its active substances, entering the child's body along with mother's milk, can provoke allergic reactions in the baby.

In connection with the presence of monosaccharides in the composition of flax seeds, they should be taken with extreme caution by people suffering from diabetes. It is better if such patients consult a doctor beforehand.

Treatment with flaxseed is not recommended for those men who suffer from inflammatory diseases of the prostate gland. You should also not overdo the product. The use of flaxseed in large quantities provokes the development of flatulence and diarrhea. Judging by the reviews of people who have used this product for healing, it is advisable to consult a doctor to give recommendations on possible restrictions and dosages of a natural remedy.

Use in home cosmetology

Flax seeds or extracts produced from them are often included in cleansing foams, rejuvenating masks and creams. Based on this product, skin care products can be made at home. Judging by the numerous reviews of women, such cosmetics allowed them to solve a number of problems, improving the condition of the skin and its appearance.

So, a change of linen can be used to make a scrub. The result is a cleanser that can be used as a base for a foam or gel cleanser. Its composition is quite simple. It includes 1 tsp. flaxseed and 2 tsp. cleansers. The plant product must be pre-mashed and slightly crushed in a coffee grinder. Washing agent is added to the raw materials prepared in this way. Ingredientsmix thoroughly and leave for a quarter of an hour. The product is applied to the face and massaged into the skin for 2-3 minutes. After that, they wash it with warm water.

Very effective, judging by the reviews, is a wrinkle mask made on the basis of flaxseed. It perfectly rejuvenates mature and fading skin of any type. To prepare it, you need to take 1 tsp. product, the same amount of honey and 2 tsp. cream. The seeds will need to be ground into flour, and then combined with a dairy product and left for 0.5 hours. This time will be enough to release mucus and valuable substances. Honey is added to the resulting mass and it is thoroughly mixed. The prepared product is applied to the neck and face, which must first be cleaned. After 10 minutes, the product is washed off with warm water.