Top 10 Benefits of Flax Seeds

Flax seeds are also called as Linseeds. They are flat, oval, glossy, hard hull and pointed at one end. They are light to dark reddish brown in colour.

They are called in different names in different languages -

Kannada -

Tamil - Ali Vidai/Ali Virai

Telugu - Bittu, alasi, atasi

Malayalam -Cheruchana vithu

Sanskrit - Alasi, neem pushpi, Kshuma, Pichhala, Atasi
Hindi - Alasi, tisi
Gujarati - Alasi
Marath - Javasu
Bengali - Marshina

Arabian: Kattan
French: Jagira, tukhme kattan
Marwadi: Alasi

Flaxseed has long been valued for its health benefits. One of the unique characteristics of flax is the oil in the seed. Flaxseed is over 40 percent oil. Like other vegetable oils, flax oil is a mixture of fatty acids, but it is the highest single source of a fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid or ALA.

ALA is a member of the omega-3 fatty acid family. They are essential fatty acids, which the body cannot make, but absolutely needs for normal growth and development. These fats must be supplied by diet. Hundreds of studies have shown that diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids decrease risk of heart attacks, strokes, and abnormal heart rhythms.

Whole flax seeds are sold inexpensively at natural-food stores and some Indian grocery stores. It is best to buy them whole and grind them as needed in a coffee grinder.

It is imperative to grind these tiny, hard-shelled seeds, or they will pass through the body undigested.

Flax seed is not a new arrival to the health world. It has been around since the dawn of civilization; but it was only recently that people came to give more attention to its nutritious and preventive values.

Flax seeds are a great source of lignans, vitamins and minerals.

Flax seeds are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids

Flax seeds are high in fibres

Flax seeds are High in Phytochemicals

Flax seeds can be used in different forms such as whole seeds, oil, powder, and capsules. They can be consumed by various recipes, too.

Flaxseeds are originated from Mesopotamia. the flax plant has been known since the Stone Ages. These seeds are an excellent source of omega-3 essential fatty acids. They are a very good source of dietary fiber, vitamin B1, and manganese. They are also a good source of the minerals magnesium, phosphorus, and copper. In addition, flax seeds are concentrated in lignan phytonutrients.

1. Flax seed is helpful in preventing certain cancers and also treating certain cancers. Helpful in reducing hot flashes, preventing breast cancer in women, and prostate cancer in men.

2. In preventing bone loss, flax seed pays a great role. It increases bone density and decreases the risk of osteoporosis.

3. Flax seed is highly useful in maintaining hormonal levels in women of all ages.

4. Flaxseeds are helpful in reducing cardiovascular diseases, by reducing bad cholesterol and increasing good cholesterol, and thus protects against heart disease.

5. Another important use of flax seed is that it helps in proper functioning of kidneys, lowers Blood Sugar and Blood pressure,and helps to reduce weight.

6. Strengthens finger and toenails.

7. Flaxseeds can relieve the symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis.

8. Helpful in the treatment of skin disorders like Eczema, Psoriasis, and Dandruff.

9. Flax seed is useful in relievings constipation and Diarrhoea.

10. Flax seed builds immunity to keep good health. The alpha linolenic acid and the lignans in flax seeds, decreases inflammation and promotes healthy functioning of the immune system.