What is Flaxseed? How can I include Flax Seed in my Daily Routine - User Guide

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

Flaxseed, also known as linseed or Alsi, is a tiny but mighty seed that has been celebrated for its numerous health benefits and nutritional value for centuries. Derived from the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum), these seeds are packed with essential nutrients, making them a popular addition to a balanced diet. Whether you call it flaxseed, linseed, or Alsi, the benefits remain consistent, offering a wide range of advantages for your overall well-being. In this post, we will explore the various benefits of flaxseed, how to use Alsi effectively, potential side effects to be aware of, and practical ways to incorporate flaxseed into your daily routine. So, let's dive into the world of flaxseed and discover why it should become a staple in your diet for a healthier lifestyle.

Flax seed botanical name is Linum Usitatissimum, some other common names are alsi, linseed, atasi, katan, and flax. It is mainly found in the Indian region – Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, and Rajasthan. The seeds and the oil of the plant are used for their medicinal health benefits, the seeds increase the volume of the urine.

It is one of the crops to be cultivated for its oil, bark fiber, and flax.

2. What is Flax Seed?

Flax Seed or flax is one of the most important oilseeds, it is a many-branched, bushy annual plant, with erect, slender stems growing up to 30 cm high with alternate, stalkless leaves and blue flowers in loose clusters.

Leaves – The leaves alternate, opposite, or whorled, simple, with 3 or 5 veins basally, with a small and lance-shaped.

Flowers – The flowers are borne on stems growing from the branch tips and have five petals, they are blue in color and bisexual, pentamerous.

Fruits – The fruits are rounded and ten-celled, each cell contains one oval seed, usually brown-colored.

3. Nutritional Value

This plant contains rich minerals and vitamins, per 100 grams of flax seed contains – 6.5% moisture, 20.3% protein, 37.1% fat, 2.4% minerals, 4.8% fibers, and 28.9% carbohydrates. Its minerals and vitamin contents are calcium, phosphorus, iron, carotene, riboflavin, and niacin. Its caloric value is 530.

Linseed contains a substantial amount which is a very valuable source of linoleic acid. The flax seed has antioxidants, anti-diabetes, and laxatives, rich in fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids properties.

4. Ayurvedic Properties of Flaxseed

Flaxseed, also known as Alsi in Ayurveda, is a highly nutritious and versatile seed that has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries.

Ayurvedic properties of flaxseed:

1. Rasa (Taste): Flaxseed is believed to have a combination of sweet (Madhura) and astringent (Kashaya) tastes.

2. Virya (Potency): It is heating in nature (Ushna Virya).

3. Vipaka (Post-digestive taste): The post-digestive taste is sweet (Madhura Vipaka).

4. Dosha Effects: Flaxseed primarily balances Vata and Kapha doshas, and in excess, it may increase Pitta dosha due to its heating nature.

Ayurvedic Uses:

1. Digestive Support: Flaxseed is known to support healthy digestion and can help relieve constipation due to its high fiber content. It also aids in promoting regular bowel movements.

2. Heart Health: Flaxseed is beneficial for heart health as it contains alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid that helps reduce inflammation and supports cardiovascular function.

3. Anti-inflammatory: Flaxseed has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body and alleviate certain inflammatory conditions.

4. Lubrication and Moisturization: Flaxseed is believed to provide lubrication and moisturization to the digestive system, respiratory system, and joints.

5. Weight Management: Flaxseed's high fiber content can contribute to a feeling of fullness, aiding in weight management by reducing appetite and overeating.

6. Hormonal Balance: Flaxseed contains phytoestrogens, which are plant compounds that may help balance hormone levels in women, especially during menopause.

7. Immune Support: The omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants in flaxseed can contribute to a stronger immune system.

8. Skin and Hair Health: Flaxseed oil can be beneficial for skin and hair health due to its moisturizing properties and the presence of essential fatty acids.

5. What are the benefits of Linseed?

Linseed has many health benefits, it controls diabetes and blood sugar helps to improve digestion, and treats constipation problems. It is beneficial to control blood cholesterol and keep the weight in balance.

Flaxseeds contain plenty of plant-based, high-quality proteins that are rich in glutamic acid, aspartic acid, and amino acids.

Here are some health benefits of Linseed

For Chest Complaints

A loose poultice of the seeds can be applied with excellent results in chest troubles and diseases like pneumonia, bronchitis, and pleurisy.

For Constipation

Due to its laxative properties, it is beneficial to treat constipation and help in bowel movement.

For Genito-Urinary-Disorders

The flax seeds are beneficial in gonorrhea, irritations of the genitourinary organs, nephritis, and cystitis.

For Respiratory Disorders

The seeds are beneficial in treating respiratory diseases besides being a useful remedy for cols, cough, sore chest, throat, and pulmonary complaints.

Skin Disorders

Flax seed oil is an herbal and effective remedy for skin diseases like eczema and herpes, and blemishes on the face.

6. How to use Alsi / Flax seed?

The whole plant and seeds are extensively used in the traditional system of medicine for various ailments like diabetes, skin problems, constipation, digestion, weight management, and respiratory wellness.

Dosage and uses depend upon the health problems and conditions or as recommended by an Ayurvedic doctor. The general recommended dosage is 3-6 grams of Alsi / Flax seed daily once a day.

Here are some dosages and uses of Alsi / Flax seed

• Take 1 tsp of flax seed powder and make a tea, this tea helps to counteract wheezing or asthma.
• Take 1-2 tsp of flaxseed with water, once a day after meal. Helps to treat constipation.
• Apply flax seed oil on skin problems like boils, abscesses, and carbuncles.
• Take 1tsp of roasted flax seed twice a day, helps to treat cholesterol and manage weight.
• You can also include flax seeds in your regular menu.

7. Side Effects of the Flax Seed

All Ayurveda herbs are plant-based, and they don’ have any side effects but they may react with some allopathy or homeopathy medicine. It is better to consult the doctor if you are on any medications or have special health issues.

Some side effects of Alsi / Flax seed are mentioned below

• Consult the doctor if you are breastfeeding.
• Do not take Alsi / Flax seed without a doctor’s prescription if you are pregnant.
• Do not take Alsi / Flax seed without a doctor’s prescription if you are on any kind of hormonal or sexual-related medication.
• If you are on any health supplements, advise the doctor before starting Alsi / Flax seed.
• If you are on diabetes or hypertension medication. Consult first the doctor before consuming Alsi / Flax seed.

8. How can I include Flax Seed in my Daily Routine?

Flax seeds are rich in fiber, minerals, and other nutritional values, they have a mild nutty flavor that can be easily fit with several dishes. In this post we have shared some easy recipes, you can add any of them in your daily diet.

Flax Seed Indian Bread

Ingredients

• Wheat flour – 1 cup
• Flax Seed Roasted – 1tbsp
• Salt – ¼ tsp
• Red Chili Flakes – ¼ tsp
• Garlic Powder – ½ tsp
• Fennel Seeds Ground – ½ tsp

Method

• Take a mixing bowl and add all the items.
• Knead the dough with help of water and rest it for half an hour.
• Make delicious bread or paratha with a little amount of olive oil.

Buy Flax Seed Roasted 

Flax Seed Tea

Ingredients

• Flax Seed Powder – 1 tsp
• Water – 360 ml
• Holy Basil Leaf Powder – 1 tsp
• Myrica Nagi Bark Powder – ½ tsp

Method

• Take a pan and add water, boil it.
• Add all the items and boil them to reduce them to half.
• Strain the tea into a cup and add honey and lemon juice.
• Drink hot.

Buy Holy Basil Leaf Powder

Buy Myrica Nagi Bark Powder

Some other uses of Flaxseed

• Sprinkle the roasted flax seed on your salad, soups, and smoothies.
• You can also make pancakes with flax seed flour.
• Use roasted falx seed in bread, cakes, and pudding.
• Use roasted flax seed in yogurt preparation or sprinkle it over raita.

9. Frequently Asked Question

Q - What are the 10 benefits of eating flaxseed?