Flax - Digestive & Hair Beauty Benefits : Your online pharmacy selection

What is flax and why is it so beneficial to our health?
Flax (Linum usitatissimum) is a plant that has been cultivated for thousands of years for its nutrient- and fiber-rich seeds, as well as for its oil, which has exceptional nutritional and cosmetic properties. Renowned for its digestive, cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory effects, it is widely used in phytotherapy, nutrition and cosmetics.

Thanks to its high content of omega-3, lignans and soluble fibers, flax is a superfood that helps regulate intestinal transit, protect the heart, balance hormones and improve skin and hair health. Its seeds, oil and flour are included in many diets for their digestive virtues and positive impact on general well-being.

What are the health and skin benefits of flax?
Above all, flax is recognized for its beneficial effect on digestion. Flaxseeds are an exceptional source of soluble and insoluble fiber, helping to regulate intestinal transit, prevent constipation and nourish the intestinal microbiota. Their ability to absorb water gives them a slightly laxative effect, facilitating waste evacuation while soothing digestive mucosa.

Its plant-derived omega-3s (alpha-linolenic acid) are essential for cardiovascular health. They help reduce inflammation, lower bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and improve blood fluidity, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and hypertension.

Flax is also a natural source of lignans, phytoestrogens that help regulate hormonal imbalances, particularly in women undergoing menopause or suffering from hormonal disorders. These plant compounds also possess antioxidant properties, protecting cells against aging and oxidative stress.

For cosmetic use, linseed oil is an excellent skin and hair care product. Rich in essential fatty acids, it helps moisturize, nourish and soothe dry, irritated or atopic skin. Applied to hair, it restores suppleness, shine and strength, while combating breakage and dehydration.

Finally, its anti-inflammatory properties make it a natural ally for people suffering from joint pain, arthritis or chronic inflammatory diseases.

How do I use flax on a daily basis?
Flax can be consumed in various forms: whole or ground seeds, flaxseed oil, flaxseed meal and infusions.

In food for transit and cardiovascular health
Consume 1 to 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed a day, added to yogurts, smoothies, cereals or salads.
Sprinkle in bread, pancake or cake dough to enrich meals with fiber and omega-3s.
Drink a flaxseed infusion, soaking 1 tablespoon of seeds in 250 ml of hot water for 10 minutes, for a soothing effect on the digestive system.
As an oil for the skin, hair and body
Take 1 tablespoon of virgin flaxseed oil a day, as a seasoning on vegetables or salads, to benefit from its heart-protecting and anti-inflammatory omega-3s.
Apply as a hair mask to nourish the hair fiber and protect lengths from dryness.
Use on face and body as a natural moisturizer for dry or eczema-prone skin.
As a poultice to relieve pain and inflammation
Heat flaxseed meal in hot water to a thick paste.
Apply to painful or swollen areas for an anti-inflammatory and soothing effect.

Does flaxseed have any side effects or contraindications?
Although beneficial, flaxseed should be used with care to avoid certain inconveniences.

Precautions for use

• Do not consume whole flaxseeds in large quantities, as they are difficult to digest and their cyanogen content can be irritating in high doses. It is preferable to grind them before consumption.
• Drink plenty of water when consuming flaxseeds, to avoid bloating or intestinal obstruction.
• Avoid heated linseed oil, as it quickly oxidizes and becomes toxic under the effect of heat. Always consume it raw.
• People on anticoagulant therapy should seek medical advice before consuming flaxseed, as its omega-3 fatty acids can thin the blood.
• Not recommended for pregnant women, due to the presence of phytoestrogens, which can influence hormonal balance.

How to choose quality flax?
To guarantee the quality and benefits of flaxseed, it's important to choose organic, cold-pressed products to preserve their nutrients.

• Choose organic, pesticide-free flaxseeds, and store them in the refrigerator after crushing to prevent rancidity.
• Opt for virgin linseed oil, extracted by first cold pressing, stored in an opaque bottle to limit oxidation.
• Check product freshness, as linseed oil goes rancid quickly once opened.
• Choose flaxseed flours and supplements without additives or preservatives, to take full advantage of their benefits.

Flaxseed is available in pharmacies, organic stores and specialized stores, in the form of seeds, oil, flour or dietary supplements.