From floor covering to laxative
Linseed (Linum usitatissimum), otherwise known as flax, is a slender annual of the Linaceae family growing to 1m in moist, well-drained soil.
Originally a native of temperate European and Asian zones, it is now cultivated throughout the world’s temperate regions. The plant has thin linear leaves on a delicate stem, which is topped by bright blue, flat flowers, which develop into spherical pods that contain shiny brown beaked seeds which produce the oil. The stems yield a durable fibre, used to make linen and twine.
Linseed, or flaxseed, and its fibre have been put to innumerable uses, both medicinally and commercially, throughout history. It was probably first grown by the Mesopotamians about 7,000 years ago and was known to be processed by the ancient Egyptians who wrapped their mummies in the linen.
Linseed contains a fixed oil comprised of alpha-linolenic and linoleic acids, proteins, sterols, fibre, lignans and minerals, which makes it nutrient, demulcent, laxative, anti-oxidant, phytoestrogenic and emollient.
A-linolenic acid, which is essential for mammalian growth, is an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid similar to, and six times richer, than those more commonly found in fish oils. This is one of the ‘good’ fats often missing from the western diet and is known to lower cholesterol, reduce triglycerides and blood clots. Some studies suggest that omega-3 acids can reduce blood levels of the protein homocysteine, which may increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
A Dutch study indicates that consumption of omega-3 reduces the chances of developing glucose intolerance, a prediabetic condition.
Ground linseed has an anti-cancer effect, specifically against endometrial and breast cancers. The phytoestrogens reduce the impact of estradol, a potentially harmful hormone, and the fibre and mucilage prevent the re-absorption of unwanted oestrogens from the intestines. The healing mucilage is also beneficial in the treatment of inflammation of the digestive and respiratory tracts and of the gall duct. It soothes irritable mucous membranes and is valued in treating bronchitis.
Older readers may remember the ubiquitous linseed poultice, which mothers and matrons would immerse in boiling water, and then apply to boils, abscesses and congested chests. The Portuguese steeped the poultice in hot red wine for the same purpose.
One of the most common uses of linseed is as a laxative, particularly for chronic constipation, a condition not unknown in Cyprus; the effective dose is one part seed to five parts water.
This preparation will also give relief to those suffering from IBS, Colitis and haemorrhoids.
The hot pressed oil is used in paints, varnishes and wood treatments, it protected cricket bats and long bows. The fibre not only produces linen, but also paper, rope, muslin, bandages and parachute harnesses. The waste from the oil extraction process is rendered into a nutritious cattle cake.
Does anyone remember the strange smell of linoleum? Guess what it was made from.
