Flaxseed and Flaxseed Oil

by National Center for Complimentary & Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), 12/06/06

Introduction
This fact sheet provides basic information about flaxseed and flaxseed oil--common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Flaxseed is the seed of the flax plant, which is believed to have originated in Egypt. It grows throughout Canada and the northwestern United States. Flaxseed oil comes from flaxseeds.

Common Names--flaxseed, linseed
Latin Names--Linum usitatissimum

What It Is Used For

Flaxseed is most commonly used as a laxative.

Flaxseed is also used for hot flashes and breast pain.

Flaxseed oil is used for different conditions than flaxseed, including arthritis.

Both flaxseed and flaxseed oil have been used for high cholesterol levels and in an effort to prevent cancer.

How It Is Used
Whole or crushed flaxseed can be mixed with water or juice and taken by mouth. Flaxseed is also available in powder form. Flaxseed oil is available in liquid and capsule form. Flaxseed contains lignans (phytoestrogens, or plant estrogens), while flaxseed oil preparations lack lignans.

What the Science Says

Flaxseed contains soluble fiber, like that found in oat bran, and is an effective laxative.

Studies of flaxseed preparations to lower cholesterol levels report mixed results.

Some studies suggest that alpha-linolenic acid (a substance found in flaxseed and flaxseed oil) may benefit people with heart disease. But not enough reliable data are available to determine whether flaxseed is effective for heart conditions.

Study results are mixed on whether flaxseed decreases hot flashes.

NCCAM is funding studies on flaxseed. Recent studies have looked at the effects of flaxseed on high cholesterol levels, as well as its possible role in preventing conditions such as heart disease and osteoporosis.

Side Effects and Cautions

Flaxseed and flaxseed oil supplements seem to be well tolerated. Few side effects have been reported.

Flaxseed, like any supplemental fiber source, should be taken with plenty of water; otherwise, it could worsen constipation or, in rare cases, even cause intestinal blockage.

The fiber in flaxseed may lower the body's ability to absorb medications that are taken by mouth. Flaxseed should not be taken at the same time as any conventional oral medications or other dietary supplements.

Tell your health care providers about any herb or dietary supplement you are using, including flaxseed or flaxseed oil. This helps to ensure safe and coordinated care.

Sources
Flaxseed. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Web site. Accessed on March 29, 2006.
Flaxseed oil. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Web site. Accessed March 29, 2006.
Flaxseed and flaxseed oil (Linum usitatissimum). Natural Standard Database Web site. Accessed March 29, 2006.
Flaxseed. In: Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckman J, eds. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs. Newton, MA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2000:134-138.

For More Information
Click on:

"What's in the Bottle? An Introduction to Dietary Supplements"

"Herbal Supplements: Consider Safety, Too"

Be well,
Medicine Plants™

Health Disclaimer! The information presented on this site should not be construed as personal medical advice or instruction. You should consult appropriate health professionals on any matter relating to your health and well-being. The information and opinions provided here are believed to be accurate and sound, based on the best judgment available to the authors, but readers who fail to consult appropriate health authorities assume the risk of any injuries. The publisher is not responsible for errors or omissions.

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