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Flax
Family:
Linaceae |
Latin Name:
Linum usitatissimum |
Description
Slender annual with wiry stems to 3 feet. Linear pointed leaves; pale to bright blue flowers or white in summer, followed by pods of flat oval brown seeds, rich in oil. Grows wild in dry grasslands, usually as an escape from cultivation.
Common Uses
Linseed has a long history of medicinal use. The seeds are a valuable demulcent and emollient, with soothing qualities both internally for coughs and externally for skin irritations. Flax seed oil has been found to be a healthy substitute for other cooking oil. It treats malnutrition and helps prevent blood clots in the veins. It has been used to help remove heavy metals, as in lead, from body tissues. It may also help reduce cholesterol in the blood.
History
It is estimated that flax has been grown as a fiber crop for weaving into fabric since the 23rd century BC. The specific botanical name usitatissimum, meaning "most useful," reflects the value and varied uses of flax. Societies made clothing, rope, cord, fishing nets, and sails from the soaked and dried fibrous stems, and today flax is still extensively cultivated for linen manufacture.
Products Containing this Ingredient
EFA, The Total- Essential Fatty Acids, EFA’s, The Total Essential Fatty Acids, Environmental X™ (formerly Environmental Cleanse®), Facial Cleanser, Lavender, Flax Oil, Flax Oil w/ Lignans, Certified Organic, Flax Seed, Cert. Organic, Flax, Organic, Flax- O- Mega, Hand & Body Lotion, Lavender, Hand & Body Lotion, Lemon, Hand & Body Lotion, Peppermint, Hand & Body Lotion, Rosemary, Oil Blend, Udos Choice 3- 6- 9, Rebuilder®, Vitality Super Green
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