Flaxseed oil can increasingly be seen not only in specialized health food stores, but also on the shelves of regular supermarkets. Many people have heard about its miraculous properties, but it is not just a healthy food product, but a full-fledged therapeutic agent with contraindications and side effects.
Humanity has been familiar with such a product as linseed oil for a long time: people began cultivating flax (Linum usitatissimum) back in the 7th millennium BC in India, and in the 4th millennium BC. e. flax cultivation was practiced throughout the Middle East and Mediterranean. At first, flax was of interest as a material for the production of fabric, and then as a valuable food product.
Flax seed - a source of linseed oil
Until the beginning of the 20th century, the consumption of flaxseed oil as food in Russia and Europe was much more widespread than it is today, not because of its beneficial properties, but because of its availability. Now, after the discovery of the unique therapeutic properties of this product, flaxseed oil is experiencing its second “birth”.
Flaxseed oil can be of two types depending on the production technology:
The color of linseed oil is from greenish-yellow to orange, the consistency is light and fluid. A characteristic feature of this product is the ability to be oxidized by air oxygen within several hours, so the pleasant seed-nut aroma of freshly squeezed oil quickly changes.
Flax seed oil is a mixture of polyunsaturated fatty acids:
The main component of flaxseed oil, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), can only be obtained by the body from food. ALA is a structural component of cell membranes and is involved in regulating lipid levels in the blood, preventing the development of cardiovascular diseases. In addition, approximately 5-10% of all ingested ALA is converted into eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids, which suppress inflammatory and allergic reactions, and are also necessary for the implementation of thought processes, maintaining a stable emotional state, hormone synthesis, and maintaining healthy skin and good vision.
The anti-inflammatory and soothing effect of flaxseed oil on the skin improves the condition of patients with eczema, rosacea and psoriasis. The low density of the oil promotes rapid absorption and comfort of use, while polyunsaturated fatty acids reduce the appearance of wrinkles and give the skin a more youthful appearance.
Flaxseed oil is a “capricious” product, since any violation of storage conditions can negate all the benefits of its use. To prevent this from happening, follow these rules:
Flaxseed oil should not be taken in the following cases:
If you take flaxseed oil for a long time in quantities of more than 2 tablespoons per day, the following side effects are possible:
There are no contraindications for external use of flaxseed oil, except for an allergic reaction. To identify individual intolerances, apply a small amount of oil to the inside of your forearm.
To enrich your diet, it is enough to consume 1 tablespoon of flaxseed oil per day. To avoid possible digestive problems, start with 1/3 teaspoon per day and gradually increase the dose. The duration of the course for the purpose of prevention is 1 month, for the purpose of treatment - 3 months or more. The oil can be taken pure or used in cold cooking. Flaxseed oil is not used for frying and baking, as high temperature changes the structure of the oil and gives it carcinogenic properties.
ALA and lignan, which flaxseed oil is rich in, improve the condition of the skin and hair, and also maintain hormonal balance. In addition, the presence of these substances in the diet slows down the aging process and reduces the risk of developing breast cancer. However, during pregnancy it is recommended to avoid consuming flaxseed oil due to the risk of premature birth.
To speed up pregnancy, pay attention to flaxseed oil with lignan, a substance with a phytoestrogenic effect that is present in flaxseed, but is partially removed when the oil is squeezed out along with the fiber. Some manufacturers additionally add lignan to the finished product, which should be indicated on the packaging (for example, Flax Oil High Lignan or Barlean’s). It is recommended to take this product in the period between ovulation (approximately the 14th day of the cycle) and menstruation, 1 teaspoon 1-2 times a day. Continue courses until pregnancy. Gradually, the second “progesterone” half of the cycle is extended, which increases the likelihood of conception.
If difficulty conceiving is caused by a hormonal imbalance (polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, uterine fibroids), taking flaxseed oil should be discussed with your doctor, as this product may interact with medications prescribed to treat these diseases.
To maintain healthy hormonal levels, stabilize the menstrual cycle and reduce the severity of PMS symptoms, 1 dessert spoon of flaxseed oil per day is enough, but the results will be noticeable no earlier than in a month.
In the fight against thrush, flaxseed oil can be used in two ways at once: to build a balanced diet and for topical use. Enriching the diet with polyunsaturated fatty acids (1 tablespoon of flaxseed oil per day after meals) and strictly limiting simple carbohydrates - especially sugar in any form - is the optimal diet for reducing the activity of the fungus Candida albicans, which causes thrush.
For topical use, the soothing and anti-inflammatory properties of flaxseed oil should be enhanced by the addition of essential oils with a pronounced antifungal effect, namely tea tree, thyme and oregano. Mix essential oils with flaxseed oil in a ratio of 1:10, then apply the resulting composition to a tampon and insert into the vagina for 2-3 hours. Repeat the procedure daily until the symptoms of thrush disappear.
Consuming 2 teaspoons of flaxseed oil daily suppresses the secretion of histamine by mast cells in the bladder wall, which reduces inflammation and pain.
ALA improves the condition of blood vessels, regulates cholesterol levels in the blood and helps build muscle mass during training. There is conflicting data on the effect of flaxseed oil on the risk of developing prostate cancer, but so far no final verdict has been made on this issue, so experts simply do not recommend that men consume more than 1 tablespoon of flaxseed oil per day.
Those who suffer from erectile dysfunction are recommended to eat a daily salad of grated carrots with 2-3 cloves of garlic, seasoned with flaxseed oil. This combination has a powerful cleansing effect on the vascular system, which improves blood circulation and enhances potency.
Flaxseed oil with a high lignan content (1 tablespoon per day) or flaxseeds (2–4 tablespoons per day) are suitable as a natural cure for prostatitis.
To speed up beard growth, you should combine the intake of flaxseed oil internally and external use: apply the oil to the hair roots with massaging movements, leave for 1 hour, then rinse.
Flaxseed oil is used for a wide range of diseases and disorders, the main rule is that treatment should be carried out with the permission of a doctor.
To strengthen eyebrows and eyelashes, mix flaxseed, camphor and castor oil in equal proportions, apply this mixture to the roots of eyelashes and eyebrows for 20 minutes, then remove excess with a cotton pad.
Another option for the mixture: add 1 capsule of vitamins A and E to a teaspoon of oil. Carry out the procedure daily for 1 month.
Consuming flaxseed oil helps strengthen nails and reduces the tendency to split. Results can be seen within 2 weeks of daily intake of 1-2 teaspoons.
The result of taking flaxseed oil internally for two weeks
Since the skin of the hands is constantly exposed to adverse external influences, it requires additional care; To do this, mix flax oil and hand cream in equal proportions, then apply with massaging movements. The result of such nightly procedures is impressive: cracks heal, the skin becomes elastic and soft.
At first glance, flaxseed oil is suitable for massage due to its light, skin-gliding texture. On the other hand, rapid absorption and specific odor make this oil not the best option for relaxation and sports massage. These shortcomings can be partially neutralized by mixing flaxseed oil in equal proportions with avocado or wheat grain oil - this mixture is suitable for oil massage in a bathhouse or sauna. However, linseed oil is ideal for two types of massage:
The effectiveness of procedures with linseed oil can be increased by adding essential oils at the rate of 1-3 drops per tablespoon: bay oil, rosemary, Atlas cedar, juniper to strengthen hair; ylang-ylang, geranium, lemon - to give the skin elasticity and tone.
With the permission of a doctor, flaxseed oil can be gradually introduced into the diet of children over 6 months after breastfeeding in order to improve digestion and prevent constipation according to the following scheme:
Be sure to pay attention to signs of possible allergies: any suspicious rashes on your child’s skin indicate the need to stop taking this product.
The presence of sufficient ALA in the diet improves cognitive function and social behavior in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Flaxseed oil will help athletes and bodybuilders improve the quality and results of training in several aspects:
During the cold season, a multi-purpose healing balm will come to the rescue: for 1 tablespoon of flax oil, take 1 drop of essential oils of pine, thyme, thyme and oregano. The mixture has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal effects:
Stye on the eye also responds well to treatment with linseed oil: pour 2 crushed cloves of garlic into 20 ml of oil, strain after an hour and apply with a cotton swab to the inflamed area of the eyelid every 3 hours.
Adding flax oil to personal care products will enhance their effectiveness: it is recommended to dilute the mask and moisturizer with oil in a 2:1 ratio. This mixture spoils quickly, so it should be prepared only for one-time use.
The fatty oil obtained from flax seeds is not only nutritious, but also a beneficial product for the health of the body. To achieve the desired result, it is recommended to take.
Flax oil has organic value; it contains vitamins A and E necessary for the body. In addition, it contains fatty acids that are essential in the regulation of water-salt metabolism. An indicator of the high quality of the oil is the percentage of alpha-linolinic acids (Omega III) in its composition. This acid is contained in sufficient quantities only by fish oil and the above-mentioned oil, which explains its uniqueness. Practical observations have shown that when taken daily it results in the following:
The oil is useful for women suffering from premenstrual syndrome. The valuable components included in its composition stabilize the body’s hormonal levels, mitigating the manifestations of ill health. It is useful for pregnant women and nursing mothers to take the nourishing oil.
The oil has been successfully used in home cosmetics. It is enough to add one spoon to your face cream to significantly improve your skin condition.
Advice: When heated, flaxseed oil loses its healing properties. Therefore, it cannot be subjected to heat treatment.
Flax seed oil is recommended to be consumed after prior consultation with a doctor. This is necessary in order to identify possible contraindications.
It is recommended to drink flaxseed oil early in the morning on an empty stomach. This is due to the fact that in the morning before the first meal, valuable substances are better absorbed by the body. It is advisable to take the drug according to the following scheme:
When taking vegetable oil on an empty stomach, you can wash it down with a glass of warm water. The recommended serving for an adult is two tablespoons of oil per day; it is useful for children to take 0.5/1 tbsp. spoons per day. It is useful to add oil to honey, mix with dried fruits, and season salads with it. So it also brings exceptional benefits to the body.
Having a laxative effect, the oil heals the intestines. It is gently distributed over the walls, helping to heal small cracks. It is recommended to take flaxseed oil to lose excess weight.
In order to get rid of excess weight, you need to take 1 teaspoon of oil half an hour before meals and after dinner. Gradually, the dose must be increased to a tablespoon. The course of administration is from 1 to 3 months. After treatment the following results are observed:
To consolidate the effect, you should take a break of two weeks. After which the course of treatment should be continued. Vegetable oil has a complex effect on the body. Weight loss occurs gradually.
Interesting fact: Flax seed oil is high in calories. Just 100 grams of product brings 900 kilocalories.
High-quality oil has a golden color with a hint of brown. Its transparency depends on the degree of purification. Preference should be given to a clear liquid. You should know that the lighter the oil, the better quality it is. The oil has a persistent tart aroma, similar to the aroma of freshly cut grass. The taste of fresh oil is specific, with a peculiar vegetable bitterness. If the liquid has an unpleasant odor or tastes rancid, this oil is not worth buying.
High-quality flaxseed oil is sold in pharmacies and specialty stores. It can be purchased at the pharmacy in bottles and capsules. Oil in capsules has the same beneficial properties as liquid oil. The dosage form is preferable for those who cannot tolerate the bitter taste of the product. The capsule can simply be swallowed with water. When purchasing, you need to carefully study the composition, as well as the terms of use.
When exposed to sunlight, the oil quickly loses its healing properties. It is sold in dark glass bottles to protect it from destruction. Sometimes oil is sold in containers made of polymer material. To prevent the product from losing its valuable properties, after opening it should be poured into a glass bottle. The product has a limited shelf life, and therefore it is packaged in small containers. The maximum storage period for oil in a sealed bottle is 1 year. The shelf life of the printed oil is 3 months. The oil should be stored in a tightly sealed container where the sun's rays do not penetrate. The refrigerator is best suited for storage.
If stored and used incorrectly, the product may be harmful to health. Polyunsaturated fatty acids, so necessary for the human body, are easily destroyed under the influence of sunlight and thermal processing. When they are destroyed, toxic substances are formed that can disrupt metabolism.
Interesting fact: Due to the presence of phytosterol compounds in flaxseed oil that regulate the hormonal levels of the female body, it is called female. Regular intake of oil can normalize the menstrual cycle and restore reproductive function.
Flaxseed oil is an excellent remedy for the correction and treatment of many diseases. In addition to its beneficial properties, it has side effects. Like any useful product, it has some contraindications for use. Therefore, before starting treatment, you should consult with your doctor. Taking flaxseed oil is limited by the following contraindications:
Pregnant and lactating women should consume flaxseed oil with caution. This is due to the product’s ability to stimulate intestinal motility, which can cause involuntary contraction of the uterine walls and lead to premature termination of pregnancy.
The beneficial properties of flaxseed oil should not be underestimated. Subject to proper storage conditions, the product can bring exceptional benefits to the body. It should be taken into account that like any useful product, it has some contraindications for use. Your doctor will tell you whether it can be eaten in a particular case and how to do it correctly.
Thanks to Omega-3 and Omega-6, flaxseed oil has healing properties and is used for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes:
For therapeutic and prophylactic purposes, you need to consume 1 tbsp daily. l. linseed oil. You can drink it separately or add it to a glass of kefir at night.
The benefits of flaxseed oil are undeniable and the results will not be long in coming.
When you decide to try this product, pay attention to the following points:
Flaxseed oil is one of the most healing and healthy vegetable oils. But despite this, nothing was heard about him in Russia for a long time. During the Soviet Union, it was rare, and the production of this oil almost ceased: it was believed that the production of this oil was much more expensive than the production of sunflower oil, and at that time it was necessary to produce products en masse, since first of all they thought about fulfilling the state plan, and not about benefit.
Hippocrates also used flaxseed oil to relieve pain in patients, treat burns and wounds, and stomach diseases. In Russia, this oil was used as a cosmetic and medicinal product and eaten. Nowadays, you can easily verify the benefits of this oil, however, in order to get the maximum of such benefits, you need to know how to drink flaxseed oil.
One to two tablespoons of flax oil contains the daily requirement for unsaturated fatty acids. You can drink the oil immediately before eating, with a piece of bread, preferably rye bread. Flaxseed oil can be added to porridge, salads, etc. The duration of the course for medicinal purposes is at least two to three months. When taking flaxseed oil for one to two years, people recorded good results in terms of improving the health of the entire body and the duration of an active life.
People with arthritis or other joint diseases should drink flaxseed oil on an empty stomach, one tablespoon twice a day.
If a patient has hypertension, then flaxseed oil is recommended to be included in the diet every day.
For diseases of the cardiovascular system, it is recommended to take one tablespoon of oil in the evening a couple of hours before dinner. Subsequently, the dose can be increased.
Atherosclerosis: the oil must be taken daily for a month or a month and a half. spoon 2 times a day, during meals. At the end of the course, take a break of three weeks, and then repeat the course again.
If you have multiple sclerosis, which is a fairly serious disease, you can also alleviate the condition by taking flaxseed oil. Take it on an empty stomach, two teaspoons daily: before breakfast and before bed.
If lipid metabolism is disturbed, then such oil must be present in the patient’s diet every day. For constipation, it is recommended to drink a tablespoon of oil before meals, once or twice a day.
People who consume vegetables should also consume this oil consistently. This is due to the fact that, as is known, they contain a large amount of nitrates, and flaxseed oil contains thioproline, a natural TCA antioxidant. Thioproline absorbs and removes carcinogenic substances nitrosamines, which are derivatives of nitrates, from the body.
You cannot cook with such oil, because when heated, all the beneficial properties are lost, and therefore, when consumed, only harm will result - the oil will oxidize and the body will receive free radicals rather than fatty acids.
Oil can be added to sauces, salads, appetizers, main courses, etc.
It is better to buy oil in small bottles and always check the expiration date when purchasing: after opening, the oil will quickly deteriorate, even when stored in the refrigerator, and a small volume of oil is used up faster. The container with oil should be made of dark glass, with a well-closed stopper. If the oil thickens and becomes cloudy and becomes more bitter, it should be thrown away immediately. You shouldn’t even use it externally, because it won’t do any good.
The oil is also used for weight loss: it accelerates fat loss at night. Flax oil not only burns fat, but also can remove harmful toxins from the body. Thus, there is a gradual cleansing of blood vessels from cholesterol deposits.
Like any medicine, you need to use weight loss oil in the system:
Within a week, the dose should be increased to a tablespoon, and drink this way for two to three months.
Acute cholecystitis, inflammation of the cornea, severe diarrhea.
If there is a peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, pancreatitis, ulcerative colitis or cholelithiasis, then the oil cannot be consumed, but it is not forbidden to use flaxseed jelly.
The beneficial effects of flaxseed oil on the body have been known for a long time. And its uses are very diverse and there are really many benefits from this oil. However, for some ailments you should not use flaxseed oil; there are also contraindications for its use.
If you suffer from cholelithiasis or have diseases of the biliary tract, then the use of flaxseed oil is contraindicated. This oil should not be used by people undergoing treatment with antidepressant drugs or antiviral drugs. Contraindications may include exacerbation of chronic pancreatitis and hepatitis. (In these cases, taking a tincture of flaxseed oil can cause aggravation rather than relief.) It is also contraindicated to use flaxseed oil for people who have hypertension, atherosclerosis, increased blood clotting, enterocolitis, bleeding caused by cysts, polyps and other tumors of the uterus (and also its appendages), during lactation. Flaxseed oil is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactating women, when taking oral contraceptives, and children under five years of age. Flaxseed oil cannot be used in combination with St. John's wort (in this case, the oil produces hypericin), which affects the appearance of allergic reactions to sunlight (this usually happens in people with fair skin and blond hair).
If you have liver disease, you may experience quite unpleasant sensations and temporary discomfort. In this case, seek advice from an experienced doctor.
Not contraindicated for cholecystitis. For this disease, it is recommended to take flaxseed oil only with meals. It is not recommended to use it between meals. People suffering from hypertension should use this oil with caution; it is better to use flaxseed oil under the supervision of a doctor.
There are indisputable facts that when a pregnant woman consumes flaxseed oil, the risk of premature birth increases three times. This is especially unsafe if you use flaxseed oil in the last two trimesters of pregnancy. We quite often hear that natural remedies may contain quite strong and unsafe components, many of which can cause irreparable harm to the health of not only the expectant mother, but also her unborn baby.
It is very possible that the polyunsaturated acids (omega-3) contained in flaxseed oil are such a compelling reason for the strong uterine activity. And this in turn leads to premature birth.
Canadian medical professionals, meanwhile, strongly recommend that all pregnant women avoid simple herbal remedies and herbal preparations for the entire period of pregnancy. Therefore, you should not get carried away and experiment with herbs.
In addition to flaxseed oil and seeds, they also advise avoiding drinking green tea, mint and chamomile.
I would like to recommend that all people who are going to take a long course (which lasts several weeks) of self-medication with flaxseed oil should first consult with their doctor. And health to you all!
Flaxseed contains up to 48% fatty aromatic oil. Flaxseed oil is an important and indispensable health product. Its regular use normalizes the functioning of the body and eliminates many diseases. In this article you will find detailed information about flaxseed oil in medicine.
The peculiarity of linseed oil is its unsaturation. The relative content of saturated fatty acids (% of total fatty acids) is about 10%. In terms of the content of monounsaturated acids, flaxseed oil is in last place - also about 10%. But flax seed oil has the highest content of polyunsaturated fatty acids - more than 70%. For this reason, it does not tolerate bright light, heat or contact with air. However, a number of studies have shown that oil obtained in compliance with technical requirements for seed quality, production technology and storage conditions retains its medicinal properties for a whole year.
Flax seed oil has its own protection - a high content of tocopherols, which have E-vitamin activity and have an antioxidant effect, and a number of other antioxidants (in particular carotenoids). The tocopherol content in flax seed oil is 106-170 mg per 100 g of product, the carotenoid content ranges from 2 to 5 mg per 100 g.
The most valuable thing that flax seed oil contains is essential polyunsaturated fatty acids - linolenic (omega-3), linoleic (omega-6) and oleic acid (omega-9). It has been established that omega-3 acids have antiatherogenic, antiarrhythmic, hypolipidemic, hypotensive and thrombolytic effects. The indispensability of these acids is determined by their action. They increase the intensity and improve metabolism, promoting normalization in pathologies, and also increase the absorption of oxygen by tissues and promote energy production. Polyunsaturated fatty acids are also necessary for the transport and metabolism of triglycerides and cholesterol. And most importantly, these acids are precursors of hormone-like substances - prostaglandins.
In medicine, flax seed oil is especially indicated for people:
Thus, in medicine, flaxseed oil acts as a dietary supplement - a dietary supplement to food, with a recommended period of use and dose, which is used for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, including arrhythmia, atherosclerosis, angina pectoris, thrombosis, etc., as well as in the treatment acute and chronic disorders that arise against the background of an inappropriately activated immune response.
Flaxseed oil is a generous source of alpha-linolenic acid and lipolic acid, an Omega-3 fatty acid. The body itself is not capable of synthesizing these acids and can only obtain them from food. Let's look at what flaxseed oil does.
Flaxseed oil treats cardiovascular diseases. Most diseases of this system are a consequence of atherosclerosis. In other words, hardening of the walls of the arteries, which are clogged with blood clots with a large amount of fatty substances, cholesterol and cell debris. Supplying the heart with nutrients and oxygen, the blood flow makes its way through the vessels, as blood clots accumulate, with great difficulty. The number of blood clots can form in such quantities that the heart muscle cannot withstand and because of this, paralysis and heart attacks occur. Scientists have proven that flaxseed oil reduces the risk of blood clots by affecting triglycerides and cholesterol. And they are the main cause of atherosclerosis. It can be noted that the effect of flaxseed oil in our body is much more effective than the effect of fish oil.
Flaxseed oil treats diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Omega-3 polyunsaturated acid helps with these diseases. By increasing the overall immunity of the body, flaxseed oil thereby prevents the formation of inflammatory processes in the body. This also applies to diseases of the genitourinary system. Flaxseed oil is recommended for patients after surgery.
Consuming this oil provides relief from asthma, even within a few days of use. In addition, frequent regular consumption of flaxseed oil improves the action of insulin in the body, which is necessary for diabetes. It also prevents diabetes.
Flaxseed oil is an excellent help for allergies. In the treatment of inflammatory and allergic processes in the diet, fatty acids play a major role, because in the body these acids are converted into leukotrines and prostaglandins - these are important mediators of inflammation. When consuming flaxseed oil, inflammatory and allergic processes are reduced and a person’s condition improves.
With regular use of edible oil, you provide a beneficial service to the body. This is an excellent prevention of cancer. As a result of many studies, it has been revealed that the lignins contained in flaxseed oil can bind and then neutralize estrogenic compounds that contribute to the formation of breast cancer. In addition to lignins, the oil provides the human body with alpha-linolenic acid, and it also has enormous anti-carcinogenic potential, especially for breast cancer.
Flaxseed oil helps with arthritis. The effect of using this oil for arthritis is quite successful. This is facilitated by Omega-3 and Omega-6 acids, which are found in large quantities in the oil. Oil is applied to painful areas.
Based on observations, it can be noted that more than half of arthritis patients refuse to take various anti-inflammatory medications in favor of flaxseed oil, and some simply reduce their medications.
Flaxseed oil perfectly helps with the healing of scratches, wounds, irritation, abrasions, bruises, and cracks in the skin. Simply lubricate these external damages with this oil. Flax oil also alleviates the human condition after insect bites, reducing irritation and itching. Flaxseed oil is also good for children. It is not only good to add to their diet, but also to lubricate their skin with diaper rash.
Before you start using flaxseed oil, consult your doctor. This oil also has its drawbacks. The fatty acids contained in it are oxidized very quickly. You can’t keep linseed oil open, you can’t heat it. It must be stored in the refrigerator for no more than 6 months from the date of manufacture.
Flaxseed oil for pregnant women is approved for use, which indicates the safety of this drug. Flax seed oil has a positive effect on the body of the pregnant woman and the fetus, it improves metabolic processes in organs and tissues. However, obstetricians warn that many natural remedies are unsafe for the health of the expectant mother and fetus due to their strong compositions, so flaxseed oil can only be prescribed to a pregnant woman by an obstetrician or a antenatal clinic therapist. This rule must be strictly observed by pregnant women; they should not allow themselves to take either biologically active food supplements or medications.
Pregnancy is a very difficult period during which active medicinal effects are impossible. Flax seed oil is a source of polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as omega-3, omega-6, omega-9, which have a positive effect on the entire metabolism, because they are used to build an integral participant in all biochemical processes - “good” cholesterol. The mild effect of flaxseed oil through metabolism helps to activate the immune system. During pregnancy, it is enough to even slightly strengthen the immune system, thereby getting rid of many diseases.
Flaxseed oil has the most positive effect on blood vessels for pregnant women - it cleanses the walls of blood vessels from cholesterol plaques.
Thanks to this, blood circulation improves and the fetus is better supplied with oxygen and nutrients. Therefore, taking flax seed oil during pregnancy is necessary to prevent fetoplacental insufficiency - a severe pathology that can lead to significant damage to the nervous system of the fetus or even its death.
By participating in biochemical processes, flax seed oil normalizes the hormonal levels of pregnant women. The oil also has a positive effect on the gastrointestinal tract of a pregnant woman, its activity improves, therefore, while taking flax seed oil, constipation, which negatively affects the condition of both the pregnant woman and the fetus, completely disappears. However, there is some danger here: under the influence of vegetable oil, it is possible to increase the motor activity of the intestines, which will create a risk of miscarriage, because at the same time the motor activity and muscles of the uterus may increase.
Pregnant women should be aware that flaxseed oil, if taken incorrectly and during the final two trimesters of pregnancy, quadruples the risk of premature birth. The high danger of flaxseed oil most likely lies in its plant origin - probably, excessive exposure to omega-3, omega-6 fatty acids, together with vitamins A and E, negatively affects uterine activity.
The standard course of taking flaxseed oil for preventive purposes consists of daily use of 2 tablespoons of the product. It is better to add this amount of oil to various cold dishes, for example, vinaigrettes, salads. Prophylactic intake of flaxseed oil is one month.
Over time, our intestines accumulate harmful toxins and impurities, which cause discomfort and constipation. Therefore, the intestines must be cleansed periodically. Cleaning procedures are recommended to be carried out at least twice a year. The most common way is to cleanse the intestines with flaxseed oil.
The essence of this cleansing method is as follows: in the morning on an empty stomach you need to drink two tablespoons of flaxseed oil, and half an hour later - a glass of raw water. The beginning of intestinal cleansing will be felt literally immediately - after 30-60 minutes.
Cleansing with flax seed oil occurs gradually throughout the day. After such intestinal cleansing, an average of 1.5-2 kilograms is lost. It is necessary to cleanse yourself with linseed oil for more than one day. It is advisable to use it every morning for several days in a row.
Update: December 2018
Today only the lazy do not talk about the benefits of flaxseed oil for the body. It can be freely purchased in stores and pharmacies and used as a universal, biologically valuable product for internal and external use. But, as with other vegetable oils, certain recommendations must be followed, since any useful product ceases to be so if used unreasonably.
How to use flaxseed oil correctly and in what cases, what are the benefits and harms, we will look into this article.
What are the benefits of flaxseed oil? This product is a real storehouse of biologically active elements that provide numerous positive effects:
Vegetarians and dieters must include flaxseed oil in their diet, since the product is an optimal source of Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Calorie content – 884-900 kcal per 100 g. oils Content in seeds – 48%. The unique chemical composition allows the oil to be classified as the strongest antioxidant.
Fats, 99.98 g:
We'll talk about the benefits of fats a little later. In addition to fats, the product contains:
Indicators may vary due to different production methods and the introduction of additional components into the product.
The largest amount of Omega-3 of all plant products is found in flaxseed oil, 44-60%. Lipids are preprocessed in the duodenum by bile enzymes and then absorbed through the intestinal wall. A certain amount of fatty acids enters the liver and takes part in metabolism.
Omega-3 fatty acids:
Normalizing cholesterol levels, reducing blood viscosity and increasing vascular elasticity are the key “trio” in preventing hypertension, coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis and reducing the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke and blood clots.
Omega-6 fatty acids stimulate brain function, improve memory, vision and hearing. Improves the condition of skin and hair. Restores in women and men.
Omega-9 is a factor in preventing the development of cancer.
Obtaining a product in ancient times and now are two completely different technologies: technological progress has made its own adjustments. Today, to obtain an environmentally friendly product, the cold pressing method is used:
The result is a dietary, environmentally friendly product with medicinal properties, ready for use. If storage conditions are met, the shelf life is 12 months.
Some people get flaxseed oil at home from seeds purchased at the pharmacy - grind them in a blender, and then squeeze the oil out of the pulp through cheesecloth. The yield of the product in this case is scanty, and such oil must be consumed within 1-2 days.
The best is unrefined flaxseed oil, obtained by cold pressing: it is used as a therapeutic and prophylactic agent. The oil has the strongest healing properties and optimal taste during the first 1-2 weeks after pressing, but finding this is very problematic. Good oil is transparent and ranges from golden to brown in color. It has a neutral odor, slightly reminiscent of fish oil, and a distant taste of seeds. On sale you can find a product with various additives, for example, artificially introduced vitamins, plant extracts, but they do not make it healthier and it is better to purchase pure oil.
Supermarkets and pharmacies are unlikely to sell counterfeit flaxseed oil, so all manufacturers can be trusted. The shorter the path from production to the counter, the better, i.e. It is not worth buying a product that is produced in one place and packaged in another. At the pharmacy you can buy flaxseed oil in gelatin capsules (for example, from the domestic company Evalar), which is recommended for people who cannot stand the smell and taste of the product. Capsules can only be stored in the refrigerator.
You should not fall for tricks in the form of commercial inscriptions “For the liver”, “For blood vessels”, “Stop cholesterol”, “Enriched with Omega 3”, etc. This is ordinary flax seed oil and does not have any additional capabilities. People overpay for not knowing the properties of a product that is good for both the liver and blood vessels, and helps fight “bad” cholesterol in itself.
You can store the oil at temperatures from +5 to +22°C, in a dark place, or in the refrigerator. The entire volume must be consumed within 3 months after opening the bottle, unless otherwise indicated. After use, close the lid tightly - the product oxidizes under the influence of oxygen. Some people recommend not throwing out expired oil, but using it for external purposes, but we advise using only fresh oil. Even if the shelf life is still good, but the oil has become very bitter, it should be thrown away.
Many people are interested in whether it is possible to fry in oil? This is not only wasteful, but also harmful - when exposed to high temperatures, beneficial fatty acids turn into dangerous carcinogens.
The beneficial properties of flaxseed oil allow both women and men to take it.
This natural medicine should not be considered as a single drug - unfortunately, the oil does not have a miraculous effect and in no case excludes etiological therapy prescribed by a doctor.
The following is considered a universal method of use for both treatment and prevention: 1-2 tsp. flaxseed oil on an empty stomach before meals 3 times a day. But they always start taking it with minimal doses, 1 tsp. per day, monitor the reaction, and only then adjust it to the daily norm.
How much oil can you drink per day? The recommended daily intake is 3 tbsp. for an adult. The duration of the course is 2-3 months, if necessary, after a 2-week break, treatment is continued again with a similar course. The product should be used for treatment only after consultation with a qualified specialist in the field of chronic diseases, taking into account contraindications.
The peculiarity of the oil is that it can be mixed with fermented milk products, yoghurts and juices without fear of developing diarrhea. The oil should be at room temperature - then it is maximally absorbed by the body.
Let's consider other treatment regimens:
How to drink flaxseed oil in each specific case should be checked with your doctor!
Mix 150 ml of flax oil and 100 g. chopped burdock root, leave the mixture for 1 hour in a warm place. Boil it in a water bath for a quarter of an hour, strain, apply to hair and scalp for an hour and a half, then rinse.
Mix 1 chicken egg yolk and 1 tbsp. a spoonful of linseed oil, heated until warm. Beat with a mixer and apply to hair for 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
Mix 2 tbsp. flaxseed oil and 2 tbsp. lemon juice, apply the mixture to your hair for 20 minutes, then rinse.
Take 1 egg yolk, half a teaspoon of honey, 10 drops of lemon juice and 3-4 drops of oil, beat the mixture until foamy and add 1 tsp. ground oatmeal. Apply to face, neck, hands for 20 minutes and rinse.
Mix 1 tbsp. flax seeds, ground in a coffee grinder, 1 tbsp. milk powder, flaxseed oil and honey, add 2 tbsp. water, mix and add 1 ampoule of vitamins A and C. Use at night.
Take 1 tbsp. wheat flour, 3 tbsp. kefir, 1 tsp. oil, 2 tsp. lemon juice and a little salt. Mix everything and apply to face for 15 minutes. Rinse off with cool water. After just 3 applications, oily shine will decrease, pores will narrow, and the skin will become more toned.
Add 1 yolk, lemon juice to a small amount of oil and apply the mixture to the skin for 20 minutes.
Mix a small amount of oil with ground coffee and use during showers and baths on steamed skin: massage problem areas with a scrub.
Mix 1 egg yolk with 1 tbsp. oil, apply to feet (or hands), put a plastic bag on top and leave for 1 hour. Wash off without using soap.
For half a glass of kefir, take 2 tsp. oils, mix and apply to skin after cleansing. Wash off after 10 minutes.
Add a little oil to your usual lotion or cream that is used for daily care.
Apply a mixture of almond, grape and linseed oil, taken in equal parts, to the eyelashes before going to bed.
Mix a few tablespoons of flax seed oil with 5-6 drops of neroli. Apply this product to the areas where stretch marks appear after a shower.
Flaxseed oil for hair and face should be used for at least 2 months at least once a week - you should not expect instant results.
Improper storage, overdose (more than 30 grams per day) and use in the presence of contraindications can cause harm to health. In general, it is quite difficult to achieve an overdose, because... Not everyone can drink a lot of oil, but if this happens, stool upset and dyspepsia are guaranteed. But the use of a low-quality product is a very real phenomenon, which often happens when stored improperly or when purchasing low-quality oil.
Omega acids can oxidize under the influence of elevated temperatures and light, resulting in the formation of peroxides - chemical compounds that are hazardous to health and have a carcinogenic effect. At the same time, the oil changes its organoleptic properties - it becomes bitter in taste and acquires an unpleasant odor.
You cannot heat the oil, much less bring it to a boil - such “recipes” will cause harm and no benefit.
Peroxide poisoning causes the following symptoms:
Contraindications to the use of flaxseed oil are:
The oil is used with caution in cases of chronic pancreatitis or removal of the gallbladder.
This biologically active agent has a fairly strong effect on the body, so this treatment should be combined with other medications carefully, after consulting a doctor.
Flax is a unique crop: it has no analogues in nature. In addition to being an environmentally friendly and healthy linen, flax provides a person with oil, which is rightly called the elixir of beauty, health and longevity. Use it for the benefit of the body, but wisely and in doses!