FLAX SEED POWDER (LINSEED MEAL)
Product No. P06065
Flaxseed oil is derived from the brown seeds of the slender flax plant. Since ancient times, the flax plant has been a source of fibre for linen fabric and also boasts a long history as a healing herb. First cultivated in Europe, the plant's seeds were regularly used to prepare balms for inflamed skin and healing treatments for constipation. Today, flaxseeds (also called linseeds) are best known for the therapeutic oil that is derived by pressing them.
Rich in beneficial essential fatty acids (they contain around 50-60%), flaxseed oil has earned a solid reputation for treating a wide range of ailments. One such fatty acid - alpha linolenic acid - appears to be beneficial for heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis and a variety of other health conditions. It also seems to be particularly important for cognitive and behavioural function, as well as normal growth and development.
In addition to fatty acids, flaxseed contains a group of chemicals called lignans that appear to positively affect hormone-related problems. Lignans may also be useful in preventing certain cancers and combating specific bacteria, fungi, and viruses, including those that cause cold sores and shingles.
Specifically, flaxseed oil and flaxseeds may help to;
Treat depression - People who do not get enough omega-3 fatty acids, or do not maintain a healthy balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids in their diet, may be at an increased risk of suffering from depression. The omega-3 fatty acids are important components of nerve cell membranes, and help nerve cells communicate with each other, which is an essential step in maintaining good mental health.
Lower cholesterol, protect against heart disease and control high blood pressure - several studies have indicated that flaxseed oil, as well as ground flaxseeds, can lower cholesterol, therefore significantly reducing the risk of heart disease. Taking flaxseed oil may also protect against angina (chest pain), and high blood pressure by inhibiting inflammatory reactions that cause artery-hardening plaque and poor circulation. In addition, a five-year study undertaken recently found that flaxseed oil may be useful in preventing a second heart attack.
Counter inflammation associated with gout, lupus and fibrocystic breasts - omega-3 fatty acids appear to limit the inflammatory reaction associated with these conditions. In cases of lupus, flaxseed oil not only reduces inflammation in the joints, skin and kidneys, but also lowers cholesterol levels that may be elevated by the disease. Taking flaxseed oil for gout may lessen the often sudden and severe joint pain or swelling that is a symptom of this condition. In addition, the ability of omega-3 fatty acids to boost the absorption of iodine--a mineral often found in low levels in women suffering from fibrocystic breasts--makes flaxseed oil potentially valuable for treating this often painful condition.
Control constipation, haemorrhoids, diverticular disorders and gallstones - because they are high in dietary fibre, ground flaxseeds can help ease the passage of stools and thus relieve these problems. In those with diverticular disease, flaxseeds may also keep intestinal pouches free of waste, therefore keeping potential infection at bay. Taken for inflammatory bowel disease, flaxseed oil can help to calm inflammation and repair any intestinal tract damage. In addition, the oil may prevent painful gallstones from developing and even dissolve existing stones.
Treat acne, eczema, psoriasis, sunburn and rosacea - the essential fatty acids in flaxseed oil are largely responsible for its skin-healing benefits. Red, itchy patches of eczema, psoriasis and rosacea often respond to the anti-inflammatory actions and overall skin-soothing properties of the essential fatty acids. Sunburned skin may heal faster when treated with the oil as well, and it may encourage thinning of the oily sebum that clogs pores in cases of acne.
Promote healthy hair and nails - the abundant omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseed oil have been shown to contribute to healthy hair growth (in fact, low levels of these acids may cause dry and lacklustre hair). Hair problems exacerbated by psoriasis or eczema of the scalp may also respond to the skin-revitalising and anti-inflammatory actions of flaxseed oil. Similarly, the oil's essential fatty acids work to nourish dry or brittle nails, stopping them from cracking or splitting.
Minimise nerve damage, numbness and tingling - the essential fatty acids in flaxseed oil assist in the transmission of nerve impulses, making the oil potentially valuable in treating conditions of numbness and tingling. The oil's nerve-nourishing actions may also help in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, a degenerative disorder of the nervous system, and protect against the nerve damage associated with diabetes and multiple sclerosis.
Reduce cancer risk and guard against the effects of ageing - the lignans in flaxseed oil appear to play a role in protecting against breast, colon, prostate, and possibly skin cancer. Preliminary research undertaken in Canada indicates that women with breast cancer, regardless of the degree of cancer invasiveness, may benefit from treatment with flaxseed oil. The oil's lignans may also protect against various effects of aging.
Treat menopausal symptoms, menstrual cramps, female infertility and endometriosis - because the hormone-balancing lignans and plant estrogens (phytoestrogens) in flaxseed oil help stabilise women's estrogen-progesterone ratio, they have a beneficial effect on the menstrual cycle, and help relieve hot flushes. Flaxseed oil may also improve uterine function and therefore treat fertility problems. In addition, the essential fatty acids in flaxseed oil have been shown to block production of prostaglandins – hormone-like substances that, when released in excess amounts during menstruation, can cause the heavy bleeding associated with endometriosis.
Fight prostate problems, male infertility and impotence - the essential fatty acids in flaxseed oil may help to prevent swelling and inflammation of the prostate, the small gland located below the bladder in males that tends to enlarge with age. The essential fatty acids also play a role in keeping sperm healthy, which may be of value in treating male infertility, and they can improve blood flow to the penis, which is helpful in cases of impotence.
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