Flax seed ~ Linum usitatissimum

Flax seed

Latin name: Linum usitatissimum

Family: Linaceae

Part used: seed

Habitat: native to Europe; cultivated in N. America, Europe, andCanada

Main constituents: omega-3 fatty acids

Energetics: moistening

Main herbal actions: mucilaginous agent, bulking agent, lubricating agent, emollient, laxative, demulcent

Minor herbal actions: anti-inflammatory

Main medicinal uses: chronic constipation, arthritis, psoriasis

Minor medicinal uses: arteriosclerosis prevention

Preparations: 1 Tbsp crushed seeds/cup water: drink, followed by a glass of pure water; infusion/decoction: 1 tsp seed/cup water: take 1-2 mouthfuls bid-tid; external: poutice

Contraindications: bowel obstruction, severe constipation; take with adequate liquid; may delay absorption of oral drugs or herbs

Toxicity: immature seed pods can cause poisoning; large quantities of purging flax can cause fatal poisoning; overdoses can cause respiratory distress and paralysis

Sources: Sharol Tilgner, N.D.: Herbal Medicine from the Heart of the Earth; http://www.egregore.com/herbs/FlaxSeed.htm