Flax Herb

Flax, also known as Linseed is native to eastern Mediterranean and Asia regions. Flax name is derived from the Latin name Linum usitatissimum and means most useful. Flax flowers are a pale blue and have been naturalized through out the world as an ornamental plant.

Flax is very fibrous and has been used to make fabric, dyes, paper and even fishing nets and soaps. Flax seeds have become widely used in medicine and the health food arena for its Omega-3 fatty acids. Linseed oil, one of the oldest commercial oils is the oil from the Flax plant.

Flax Tea

Flax seed tea is a bit more complicated to make, however the trouble is worth it. Combine 1 teaspoon ground flax seed with 1 cup boiling water, cover and let it sit for about 1 hour. The flax seed will swell and absorb the water and become a gel. This gel can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Using 1 � 2 teaspoons of the gel mix it into a cup of hot water to drink as a tea.

Flax Uses & Herbal Remedies

Eating Flax seeds is healthful and is high in essential omega fatty acids.

Flax seed can substitute for egg in recipes that call for egg by combining 1 tablespoon of ground Flax seed in 3 tablespoons of water.

Flax seed gel can be used as a laxative.

Flax has been reported to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood.

Flax seed oil can be used to treat leather keeping it supple.

Flax Folklore

Historically Flax has been thought to ward off the evil eye and bring luck.

Flax Cautions

Excessive use of Flax seeds can cause diarrhea.

Eating excessive amounts of the Flax seed could cause intestinal obstruction when the seed begins to swell.