Flax Seed Laxative

FLax Seed or Linseed

Flax seed (alternatively spelled flaxseed or linseed) is the seed of the flax plant. The flax plant is used for the production of the clothing material and fiber linen. The oil is also extracted from the seeds. There are a number of purported uses for flaxseed, but the most common is for treating constipation as a natural laxative. Some have claimed that the oil is like castor oil or mineral oil in being able to act as a lubricant laxative, but this is poorly substantiated.

Flaxseed has also been used to treat hormone-related conditions in women, such as hot flashes and pain in the breast. The oil has been used for conditions such as arthritis. Some studies have been carried out in both to ascertain whether the seeds can reduce high cholesterol or inhibit cancer. The studies are highly inconclusive. In fact, some Mayo Clinic studies argue that the component substances might increase rates of certain cancers.

Using the seed

The seeds can be kept whole and eaten for their effects. Crushing for ease of digestion is also possible. Perhaps the simplest way to take it is in powdered form, available at nutritional supplement stores. Beside the powdered form, one can also get it predissolved in liquid capsules. Linseed oil is said to have a very strong taste and smell, leading many to eschew the product. In addition, the oil quickly spoils under regular room temperatures. Even if kept in a cool place it becomes oxidized and spoils (turning rancid). If an oil smells rancid, it should be discarded.

The medical science of flax seeds

The main reason why flaxseeds are said to be good for treating constipation lie in their high soluble fiber content, much like the kind in oat bran and the main reason for its natural laxative effects. Taking the seeds may provide additional benefits such as reducing cholesterol, but scientific studies have produced mixed results. The same is true of using it to treat heart disease - insufficient data to draw clear conclusions. As mentioned already, women take it to alleviate conditions related to hormones, such as breast pain or hot flashes. The studies are these are also inconclusive.

The role of water

As with other types of high fiber sources, it has always been recommended by manufacturers and physicians that flaxseeds be taken with plenty of water. Fiber natural laxatives have the effect of drawing water from the gut walls into the lumen space. Otherwise, insufficient water intake plus high fiber may lead to worsened constipation.

Major suppliers

In terms of production strength, the countries that produce most of the flax seeds are Canada, China, and India.

Source: NIH complementary and alternative medicine site on flax seed.