Botanical Overview
Linum usitatissimum, commonly known as Flax or Linseed, belongs to the Linaceae family. Its primary parts used medicinally are the seed, oil, and fiber. Native to Europe and Western Asia, it is widely cultivated and used in North America as well.
Energetics
Flax is traditionally considered cooling in temperature and moistening in nature. It has bitter, oily, and sweet tastes, with a descending directionality. It is relaxing in tonicity and influences the body’s fluids.
Primary Actions
- Demulcent
- Laxative
- Emollient
- Anti-inflammatory
- Cardioprotective
Indications
Western
- Constipation
- Dry cough
- Inflammation
- High cholesterol
- Menopausal symptoms
Syndromes
- Constipation due to dry stool
- Hypercholesterolemia
- Mucous membrane irritation
TCM
- Constipation
- Dryness in intestines
Syndromes
- Large intestine dryness
- Lung dryness
Ayurveda
- Constipation
- Dryness
- Inflammation
Syndromes
- Vata imbalance causing dryness
- Pitta inflammation
Unani
- Constipation
- Dry cough
- Inflammation
Syndromes
- Bawl-e-Qai
- Sulah Lujah
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemical components include alpha-linolenic acid, lignans, mucilage, omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, and fiber, contributing to its demulcent, laxative, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Seed whole or ground: 1-2 tablespoons daily
- Oil: 1-2 teaspoons daily
- Powder: 1-3 g, 1-2 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Flax is generally safe when consumed in dietary amounts. It may cause mild laxative effects. High doses are cautioned against during pregnancy due to potential uterine stimulation. Use caution with bleeding disorders and concurrent anticoagulant therapy due to risk of increased bleeding.
Astrological Correspondences
Not established with sufficient authoritative sources.
Selected References
- Plants For A Future: Linum usitatissimum (Flax)
- World Health Organization: WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants – Volume 2: Flaxseed
- European Medicines Agency – HMPC: Assessment report on Linum usitatissimum L., semen
- PubMed Central: Flax and human health: reviews and recent findings
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India: Linum usitatissimum L. (Flaxseed)