Flaxseed oil – benefits and harms, how to take it?

For the population of Rus', flax was the plant about which they said: “If there is flax, you will be strong.” People valued linen not only for what it clothed, but also for what it fed. The strength was given by the oil that was made from it. Flaxseed oil was the basis of both festive and everyday dishes; healers treated the afflicted with it. In the twentieth century, the state placed the main emphasis on the production of linen fabrics, and oil faded into the background. But this did not diminish the people's love for this oil.

Rural residents used oil that was made at local oil mills. The oil was pressed in small volumes, stored in cellars, and it did not have time to burn out because it was eaten very quickly. City dwellers practically never saw linseed oil. And until now, linseed oil is as simple as sunflower oil and cannot be bought on the market. But it is so popular among modern people who adhere to a healthy lifestyle and do not want to connect their lives with medications that they even go to the pharmacy to buy it. Flaxseed oil: benefits and harm, how to take it - you will learn about this and much more in our article.

Linseed oil

The composition of linseed oil does not allow it to be stored for too long. This is due to the fact that, like all oils, it contains polyunsaturated fatty acids, but in very large quantities compared to others. Due to the ability of these acids to oxidize when heated or stored in air, flaxseed oil has a short shelf life. But it is precisely because of these acids that fresh flaxseed oil is very useful and healing. With the development of private entrepreneurship, the production of flaxseed oil began to revive.

More information has appeared and, accordingly, the number of its consumers has increased. Although for many its taste is unusual, so not everyone can appreciate all the advantages of flaxseed oil.

Harm of flaxseed oil

Any substance can be harmful to the body if used incorrectly. Flaxseed oil is no exception. You need to know the conditions under which it preserves well and under which it deteriorates. Naturally, it is better to refuse to use a spoiled product.

Oily liquid from flax should not be heated, as after this it becomes poisonous.
Do not store the oil for very long, as it oxidizes when exposed to air and loses its beneficial properties. It is better to buy it in small bottles so that it does not last long. Open and pour the liquid quickly, and use it quickly. If you dress salad with oil, do it immediately before eating.
A dark glass bottle guarantees that the oil will not be subject to the damaging effects of sunlight.

Remember that flax oil negatively affects blood clotting. If you are taking blood clotting medications, eliminate this oil from your diet.

Please note that flaxseed oil is not recommended for use for the following diseases:

cholelithiasis;
cholecystitis;
chronic pancreatitis;
hepatitis;
individual intolerance (in this case, an allergic reaction may occur, such as hives, swelling or rash).

If you regularly take medications, be sure to consult with your doctor about flaxseed oil to see how it will combine with your medications.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, do not risk taking flax oil yourself. Check with your doctor to make sure it is safe for you and your baby. The same applies to children under three years of age.

How and where they are made

All oils are produced in three ways - by pressing fat without heating the raw material using a press, pressing with simultaneous heating and stretching (extraction) using organic solvents that do not mix with the oil. The oil content of flax seed reaches 40% of its weight. Therefore, even when using hand presses at home, at least 200 g of oil is obtained from 1 kg of flax seeds. This oil preserves all the qualities of the plant, both positive and negative. It has a sweetish taste and a yellow tint.

Unlike large-scale production, at home flax seeds do not undergo steam treatment, when pests and various pathogens - fungi, molds, bacteria - are destroyed. Taking into account the fact that raw flaxseed oil is consumed in its original, unrefined form, the entire negative biological environment enters the human body. On a production scale, not only the raw materials, but also the pressed oil are purified. It is filtered repeatedly, thereby eliminating mechanical impurities, and treated with hot water. Refined flaxseed oil undergoes additional processing steps.

Making flaxseed oil at home (video)

Chemical composition of linseed oil

Oil that has simply undergone cold pressing and filtration will differ in its chemical composition from oil that has undergone hot processing and refining. The most important components of flaxseed oil include phytosterols, phytoextragens (lignans), vitamins K, E, B4, phosphorus, calcium, zinc and fatty acids. The specific gravity of unsaturated acids in the total mass is: 90%. Other saturated fatty acids - 10%.

Calorie content and nutritional value of flaxseed oil

Energy value of flaxseed oil: 100 g contains 99.9 g of fat, calorie content 884 kcal. It is used in high-calorie diets. The daily energy requirement of a person leading a sedentary lifestyle is up to 1500 Kcal. That is, 200 g of flaxseed oil, provided that a person eats only one oil, will completely cover all the energy costs of the body.

Vitamin E, which is part of flaxseed oil, is officially recognized as a substance necessary for maintaining normal human health, youth and beauty of the body. 100 g of product contains vitamin E 17.5 mg, and the daily requirement of an adult is 10-15 mg, vitamin K contains 9.3 mcg, the need is up to 60 mcg. The daily requirement for vitamin B4, which is called choline, for men and women over 18 years of age is from 5 mg, containing 0.2 mg.

What are the benefits of flaxseed oil?

Thanks to flaxseed oil, people improve their health. It can be called a universal medicine that acts both on the internal organs and the general condition of the body, and on the external ones, since it is actively used in cosmetology. First of all, the effect of flaxseed oil on a person is a general strengthening one. It not only helps in the treatment of many diseases, but also creates conditions for their prevention.

Gastrointestinal tract. Flaxseed oil has a beneficial effect on the gastrointestinal tract, relieving a person from constipation and flatulence, including in children. It is useful to take for colitis, gastritis and stomach ulcers, as the oil activates the regeneration of the gastrointestinal tract. This remedy perfectly relieves heartburn. In addition, it has antiparasitic properties. This remedy can also be used to successfully combat hemorrhoids at home.

Cardiovascular system. With regular use of oil, blood pressure normalizes and the elasticity of blood vessels improves. By taking it for atherosclerosis, you lower the level of bad cholesterol in the blood, while improving the amount of “good” cholesterol.

Flaxseed oil is also actively used to prevent heart attacks and strokes. The fact is that it prevents the formation of blood clots in the vessels. It is especially useful to take this remedy for the prevention of recurrent heart attacks and strokes.

By consuming it, you reduce the risk of cardiac arrhythmia and coronary disease. Thus, it can be argued that this valuable plant substance strengthens the cardiovascular system and helps in the prevention of almost all its diseases.

Nervous system. By taking flaxseed oil, you also benefit your nervous system. First of all, it should be taken to prevent depression, age-related mental changes, attention deficit disorder, and schizophrenia. The fact is that a significant amount of Omega-3 in oil reduces the risk of all these diseases. According to scientific data, this remedy strengthens nerve cells, helps nerve endings communicate more effectively with each other, which makes the nervous system stronger and more resistant to daily stress. In addition, the ability to concentrate increases and memory improves.

Prevention of cancer. Scientists have found that the beneficial substances contained in flaxseed oil prevent the appearance of tumors, neoplasms and the appearance of cancer cells in the body. It should be taken to prevent cancer of the mammary glands, skin and, above all, intestines.

Skin diseases. If you take flaxseed oil internally, you can ease eczema, psoriasis and get rid of acne. Its beneficial effect on the body as a whole creates conditions for remission of these autoimmune diseases. Applying the extract to the skin relieves inflammation in eczema and similar skin problems. External use of the oil alleviates sun and household burns, helps tissue regenerate faster, and heals wounds and cuts.

How to choose quality

Indicators of the quality of flaxseed oil are its taste - there should be no bitterness; smell - freshly pressed has a pleasant aroma with light nutty notes; transparency - in settled cold-pressed oil there will be sediment at the bottom of no more than 1% of the total volume, in refined oil there should be no sediment; color - depends on the color of the seeds, which can be light golden or dark. Oil made from rancid seeds will definitely taste bitter. Oil produced with violations in technological processes will also be bitter.

When choosing linseed oil based on the appearance of the container and labeling data, first of all you need to pay attention to the date of manufacture and the condition of the container. To improve the preservation of its qualities, the oil must be poured into containers made of material that does not allow light to pass through, or there must be additional paper packaging. Before purchasing, you must carefully study the composition of the raw materials and the composition of the oil. Perhaps the manufacturer, called “linseed oil,” bottled a mixture of oils or added other components that improve its taste and smell. At the same time, you can trust the manufacturer, who has supplied his product with a warning against using oil in a heated and hot (fried) form.

Currently, flaxseed oil is very often included in dietary supplements and in its pure form is used only for medicinal purposes. To do this, you can purchase flaxseed oil gelatin capsules They are recommended for use by adults and children over 14 years of age. Some manufacturers add extracts of medicinal herbs to flaxseed oil, which change its taste and enhance its health-improving functions.

How to store

The rapid oxidation of the components of liquid linseed oil allows it to be stored only in a cool place without access to light in a dark glass container. If flax oil is purchased at a pharmacy in capsule form, then if storage rules are followed, its shelf life is 18 months. Reviews from doctors about the properties of flaxseed oil in capsules are always positive.

Liquid linseed oil should be used as quickly as possible after opening the manufacturer's packaging. If there is oil left in the bottle, then before putting it in the refrigerator, you should make sure that the stopper prevents air from reaching the oil. Cold-pressed unrefined linseed oil is stored at a temperature not lower than + 10°C, refined oil can be stored at temperatures up to + 23 10°C. The shelf life of the oil after opening the bottle is no more than 3-4 weeks. Spoiled oil may develop a characteristic drying oil smell and the consistency will become viscous.

The benefits and harms of flaxseed oil

Flaxseed oil is a kind of chimney sweeper for the human body. Its chemical composition helps prevent diseases associated with poor circulation and increased blood viscosity. The risk of blood clots is reduced and the elasticity of blood vessels is normalized. It is taken to prevent atherosclerosis, dysfunction of the liver and gastrointestinal tract, and to improve the functioning of the cardiovascular system. Used as an anthelmintic for gastritis, heartburn and constipation, to normalize metabolism, blood pressure and prevent strokes.

Flax seed oil has anti-inflammatory, diuretic, emollient, mild laxative, bactericidal, enveloping effects. With its use, the performance of the kidneys and bladder improves, wounds heal faster, and hair grows faster. According to doctors, flaxseed oil is dangerous for those who have undergone antiviral therapy, for those prone to cholelithiasis, and for patients with chronic pancreatitis. Flaxseed oil is included in the diet of vegetarians and fans of a raw food diet.

For women

Flaxseed oil regulates the female menstrual cycle, so it is recommended for girls with unstable hormonal levels; natural ovulation is stimulated. For older women, it is useful in that it helps in solving problems that arise during menopause. Flaxseed oil stabilizes the ratio of female beauty and health hormones progesterone and estrogen, preventing headaches, mood swings, and insomnia. When using hormonal contraceptives, flax oil is not used, because it reduces the effectiveness of the drugs.

The value of linseed oil used as a cosmetic product is invaluable. Using it as a massage makes the skin of your hands smooth and improves the condition of your nails. Problems with dry skin disappear. Traditional healers recommend taking flax oil to increase the volume of female mammary glands. The oil helps limit the growth of fat cells.

For men

Men most often listen to doctors' reviews about the benefits of flaxseed oil in capsules, because it is easier to eat a pill than to properly store an open bottle of oil. Moreover, the taste of the tablet is neutral, the price in pharmacies is affordable, and you need to get used to the smell and taste of the oil. Flaxseed oil is a natural medicine for men, solving problems with potency and improving hormonal levels. When taken regularly, the amount of semen increases and the work of the gonads as a whole is stimulated. The oil strengthens the walls of the blood vessels of the reproductive system, thereby increasing the erection and its duration.

Regardless of the condition of the genitourinary system, taking flaxseed oil will improve a man’s psychological state, increase physical endurance, protect the liver from cirrhosis, and remove toxins from the body. Men who have reached the age of half a century need flax oil to improve the general condition of the body and strengthen the immune system. Flaxseed oil will also help restore the functionality of the body for those who abuse alcohol and smoking.

For children

Flaxseed oil is used as a medicine for diaper rash and skin irritations in very young babies and as an additive to their diet. The oil is used as food after the child is 6 months old. It is given drop by drop; it is recommended to give as many drops as the baby is months old. From 1 year of age, flaxseed oil is added to porridges, soups, salads, cottage cheese dishes, the general intake rate is 1/2 teaspoon 2 times a day. For older children, the norm is increased: from 3 to 7 years old it is allowed to eat flax oil in the amount of 1 tsp twice a day, from 7 to 14 years old the norm is increased to 1 des. l. twice a day. Flaxseed oil, after obtaining permission from a pediatrician, can be included in the diet of children with pulmonary diseases.

How to take flaxseed oil

To meet the body's needs and prevent many diseases, it is enough to take 1-2 tablespoons of flaxseed oil per day. This can be done separately from other food, or you can replace it with traditional vegetable oils - sunflower, olive, corn - for dressing salads and porridges. If discomfort appears in the abdomen or loose stools, reduce the dose, but do not stop taking it. Side effects should disappear after 3-5 days.

For medicinal purposes, you can take the drug in capsules, which are sold in pharmacies.

Let's take a closer look at how to take flaxseed oil to influence certain body systems.

For digestion

For indigestion or inflammatory diseases of the stomach and intestines, take flaxseed oil on an empty stomach.

For constipation, 1-2 tablespoons twice a day before meals.
If there is inflammation in the oral cavity, rinse the mouth for several minutes, then spit it out. Repeat several times a day.
To support the liver, doctors recommend drinking in doses of 15 to 40 grams per day, but no more.
For gastritis, it is combined with drugs that reduce the acidity of gastric juice. Take 1 teaspoon three times a day with warm water. The course of treatment is three months.

For the heart and blood vessels

Here's how to take flaxseed oil for medicinal purposes for cardiovascular diseases.

For atherosclerosis of blood vessels, 1 tablespoon twice a day for three months.
For cardiac ischemia for 4–6 months.
For preventive purposes to reduce cholesterol levels in courses of 2-3 weeks 2-3 times a year.

For weight loss

Weight loss is achieved by normalizing intestinal function, improving liver function and accelerating fat metabolism. In addition, many women noted that if they drink flaxseed oil for weight loss, the condition of their skin and hair significantly improves.

Reception begins with 1 teaspoon per day half an hour before breakfast.
After 10 days, the dose is gradually increased, bringing it to 1 tablespoon.
After a month, take a break for 1–2 weeks, then repeat the course as necessary.

External use

Flaxseed oil has found its place in the treatment of joints, skin and hair diseases, and in cosmetology. The benefits of flaxseed oil for women include a rejuvenating effect.

For joint diseases, massage with heated linseed oil is recommended.
For skin diseases, apply a moistened napkin to ulcers and poorly healing wounds for several hours. You can also do this for trophic ulcers and burns, but first consult with your doctor.
Flaxseed oil for skin has a softening and regenerating effect. It is added to masks and creams or used in its pure form. It is good to mix the product with honey, sour cream, kefir, egg yolk, lemon juice. Abrasions and peeling can be lubricated with pure oil several times during the day.
Flaxseed oil for the face is used for dry or aging skin. It is applied at night in a thin layer, except for the area around the eyes. For an exfoliating effect, make a mask using oatmeal together with linseed oil.
Flaxseed oil for hair is used for its beneficial effects on the scalp and the hair structure itself. It is perfectly absorbed, so it can be added to masks for any hair type. The masks are rubbed into the skin, distributed evenly over the hair and the head is wrapped in polyethylene and a towel. Leave for 1–1.5 hours. Mixtures with burdock and castor oils, egg yolks, onion juice, and honey work well.

Contraindications

Flaxseed oil, which has not lost its medicinal properties, is nevertheless not recommended for patients with cholecystitis, pancreatitis, those suffering from diarrhea, those with gallstones, inflammation of the cornea of the eyes, and increased acidity of the gastrointestinal tract. To take flaxseed oil, pregnant and lactating women need to consult a doctor. Women with benign ovarian tumors should not use the oil. Regardless of age and gender, excessive consumption of flaxseed oil is contraindicated.

What is linseed oil

High-quality flaxseed oil is obtained by cold pressing from dried, ripened flax seeds. They contain up to 48% of it. The oil is consumed as food, used in medicine, as well as for the production of natural linoleum and oil paints for painting.

Compound

The value of oil for the human body is due to its rich composition of both fatty acids and macro and microelements. In terms of omega-3 content, it is 2 times richer than fish oil

Composition of fatty acids in flaxseed oil triglycerides:

α-linolenic acid (ALA, omega-3 precursor) - 45-70%;
linoleic acid (belongs to the omega-6 class) - 12-24%;
oleic acid (belongs to the omega-9 group) - 10 - 21%;
saturated fatty acids - 6-18%.

In 1 tbsp. A spoon (15 ml) of flaxseed oil contains:

126 Calories;
0 g protein;
14.1 g of fat, of which: saturated - 1.2 g;
monounsaturated - 2.4 g;
polyunsaturated - 10.5 g.

0 g carbohydrates.

What are the benefits of flaxseed oil and why does it work?

Flaxseed oil is used in a healthy diet and complex treatment of many diseases as a source of essential alpha-linolenic acid (vitamin F), the deficiency of which adversely affects health.

Linoleic acid triglycerides (ALA) are important building blocks of the entire body. A healthy human body synthesizes eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids from ALA - more important forms from the group of omega-3 acids. Our nervous tissue, including the brain, consists of 70% of them. They are not synthesized by the body, so they must always be supplied with food.

When to use flaxseed oil

Flaxseed oil is the undisputed leader among vegetable oils in terms of the number of therapeutic and prophylactic properties.

Oil is used:

for diabetes mellitus (improves the action of insulin and protects against the development of diabetes);
for auxiliary treatment and for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases;
to reduce triglyceride and cholesterol levels;
to reduce the likelihood of blood clots;
for auxiliary treatment and prevention of cancer;
to improve liver function;
for colitis, gastritis, constipation;
for the prevention of thyroid diseases;
improves microcirculation and elasticity of eye vessels, prevents their spasms;
from heartburn, worms, various ulcers;
has a healing effect on wounds, burns, radiation damage to the skin, frostbite;
to improve the condition of hair and skin;
for weight loss;
during menopause in women;
to increase potency;
has anti-edematous and anti-inflammatory effects;
has a rejuvenating effect;
helps lower blood pressure;
facilitates the treatment of asthma;
as a general tonic (supports the immune system).

Benefits of flaxseed oil for women

The oil can help with women's health problems, from serious illness to fighting the signs of old age.

For healthy skin, nails and hair

Flaxseed oil is valuable due to its ability to maintain the beauty of skin, nails and hair, which will be especially appreciated by the fair half. It promotes healthy hair growth, reducing hair breakage, increasing elasticity and shine. Likewise, the oil nourishes dry or brittle nails, protecting them from cracking or splitting. Essential fatty acids are largely responsible for the healing capabilities of the skin.

Infertility problems and nursing mothers

Flaxseed oil can improve the functioning of the uterus and thus combat some infertility problems. It is also necessary for nursing mothers. Supplied with mother's milk, it supports the baby's body and helps his brain cells develop.

Hormonal background

It is noted that regular intake of flaxseed oil has a beneficial effect on hormonal levels in women. This affects well-being during menopause and on the eve of critical days.

Because the lignans (naturally occurring phytoestrogens hormones) and other plant estrogens in flaxseed oil help stabilize a woman's estrogen-progesterone ratio, they may have a beneficial effect on the menstrual cycle and relieve perimenopausal and menopausal hot flashes.

In addition, essential fatty acids block the production of prostaglandins, hormonal substances that, in excess quantities during menstruation, can cause severe bleeding.

Iodine absorption

The ability of omega-3 fatty acids to enhance the absorption of iodine (deficiency of this mineral is common in women with fibrocystic breast disease) makes flaxseed oil potentially valuable for treating this often painful condition.

Flaxseed oil in cosmetology

Even without cosmetic procedures, consuming flaxseed oil improves the appearance of hair, skin and nails. The oil is used in cosmetology as additional nutrition, to moisturize and rejuvenate dry and aging skin. With constant use, it eliminates flaking and smoothes out fine wrinkles.

Harm and side effects of flaxseed oil

The benefits of flaxseed oil for the body are obvious and difficult to overestimate, so its consumption in food is steadily increasing, but most consumers are not aware of the possible side effects and possible harm of this product.

Contraindications to the use of flaxseed oil

It is not recommended to take the oil:

with individual intolerance;
with exacerbation of chronic cholecystitis;
with severe diarrhea;
with inflammation of the cornea of the eyes;
when taking blood thinning medications;
with increased bleeding.

Sufferers should take with caution:

cholelithiasis,
acute cholecystitis;
pancreatitis.

Benefits of flaxseed oil for the body

Bodybuilders use flax oil as a means to replenish the body's energy costs after training. The oil helps restore the elasticity of ligaments during sprains, which is very important for athletes. In addition to increasing energy potential, the endurance of athletes increases. An important factor for people involved in bodybuilding and people who care about their health is the acceleration of metabolism associated with the use of flax oil.

For the cardiovascular system

The main benefit of the oil is precisely in regulating the functioning of the heart and blood vessels of the human body. The production of red blood cells - erythrocytes - is accelerated, with the help of which oxygen is delivered to all tissues of the human body. Unsaturated fatty acids act as agents to improve the conductivity of the heart muscle and help reduce inflammation. As a result, the possibility of heart attacks and ruptures in the fibers of the cardiac muscle membranes disappears. By strengthening blood vessels, the likelihood of arterial thrombosis and varicose veins is reduced.

Infertility treatment

Flaxseed oil is used as a massage agent for adhesions of the fallopian tubes. Before going to bed every day, rub the oil into the abdominal area with circular movements of the hands. In addition, compresses are used for treatment. Make a paste from 70 grams of flax oil and 300 grams of ground flax seeds. The pulp is slightly heated in a water bath, applied to gauze folded in three and applied to the stomach for three hours. In order for the linseed oil compress to benefit, the procedure is carried out every day for two months.

For nervous system disorders

If a person has a deficiency of omega-3 acids in the body, then neurological diseases, emotional instability develop, memory deteriorates, and visual abilities decrease. The use of flaxseed oil, containing polyunsaturated acids, allows you to regulate the functioning of nerve cells and relieve a person from depressive conditions. Fatty acids improve the transmission of nerve impulses, so the feeling of numbness and tingling in the muscles of the arms and legs disappears. The properties of flaxseed oil can improve the condition of patients with multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease.

Prevention of diabetes

Under the influence of the acidic composition of flax seed oil contained in the capsules, lipid metabolism in diabetics is restored and overall metabolism is improved. The oil helps prevent diabetic retinopathy. An important step in normalizing blood sugar levels is weight loss. A diet that includes dishes with the addition of flaxseed oil allows you to not feel hungry when eating small portions of food, which promotes weight loss.

For the digestive system

Fatty flaxseed oil improves the condition of the mucous membranes of the intestines and stomach. It is recommended for inflammatory processes in the esophagus, duodenal ulcers, fatty liver, and for the treatment of gastritis. Treatment of stomach ulcers is carried out by taking a mixture of several oils for a month - flaxseed - 50 ml, sea buckthorn - 70 ml and St. John's wort - 30 ml. All oils are mixed until smooth and placed in a cool, dark place. Leave for 2 days. Take 1 tbsp in the morning on an empty stomach.

Treatment of constipation

If there is difficulty in bowel movement, you can do without pharmaceutical laxatives. In reviews from doctors, taking flaxseed oil is called a solution to the problem of constipation. The oil helps increase the rate of breakdown of food debris and helps it move through the intestines. There are several recipes to combat constipation: take the oil before meals, 1 teaspoon twice a day; in the evening before going to bed, mix 1 tbsp of warm boiled milk and 1 tsp of flaxseed oil; mix 1 tbsp. l. butter, natural honey and yogurt, take 1 tbsp an hour before night rest, do not

Benefits of flaxseed oil

Flaxseed oil is obtained by cold pressing, that is, without heating, thereby preserving the unique properties and composition of the products. The resulting oil has a large amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are so necessary for stable women's health and maintaining the beauty and freshness of the skin, shine and radiance of hair and strong nails at any age.

We should also highlight the high content of tocopherol (best known as vitamin E) in flaxseed oil, which, among other things, helps girls normalize hormonal levels.

In general, the benefits of this product for women are ensured due to the fact that it contains the following vitamins and amino acids:

Omega-3,
Omega-6,
phosphorus,
magnesium,
iron,
manganese,
lignans (phytoestrogens),
as well as vitamins A, B, K, E, F.

With this composition, with constant use of flaxseed oil internally, you can achieve impressive results, namely:

normalization of interstitial metabolic processes;
strengthening the immune system;
reducing the risk of developing cancer of the reproductive organs and breast;
Helping people lose weight burn fat;
regulation of the monthly cycle;
stabilization of hormonal levels;
assistance in the prevention and treatment of adhesions in the pelvis;
improvement of uterine functions;
relief of skin diseases caused by sunburn, eczema, psoriasis;
Help normalize triglyceride and cholesterol levels;
help in the fight against premenstrual syndrome, endometriosis and menstrual pain;
eliminating constipation;
assistance in the fight against female infertility;
assisting with natural ovulation;
prevention of osteoporosis;
assistance in eliminating menopausal symptoms such as headaches, sleep disturbances, hot flashes;
stabilization of the thyroid gland;
assistance in the prevention of the formation of cysts, mastopathy, uterine fibroids, thrush;
increased libido;
replenishment of vitamin deficiency.

Benefits of flaxseed oil for women

The contribution of linseed oil for the fair sex is enormous. Its use is recommended for both therapeutic and preventive purposes. This product is so healthy and safe for the body that it can be consumed even during pregnancy and lactation.

After all, as you know, pregnant and nursing mothers are not recommended to take synthetic vitamins and medications, but the use of flaxseed oil under the supervision of a gynecologist is quite acceptable. This fact is quite substantiated, since:

this oil strengthens the immune system of the expectant mother;
protects against hormonal imbalances that can cause the risk of miscarriage;
helps fight constipation;
cleanses blood vessels, which guarantees a stable supply of nutrients to the fetus in full;
prevents excessive accumulation of fat and normalizes metabolism.

However, despite all the positive qualities of the product, under no circumstances should you prescribe self-treatment. It is necessary to strictly follow the doctor's recommendations. Medicine knows of cases where exceeding recommended daily doses provoked premature birth. It is recommended to consume this oil after childbirth, since the baby receives the necessary vitamins and amino acids through mother’s milk.

As for the period of planning a child, it is recommended to use flaxseed oil not only for women, but also for men. Since representatives of both sexes are equally susceptible to the negative influence of poor ecology, constant nervous tension and stress, poor nutrition and much more.

The oil is involved in the processes of generating new cells in the body, and due to the content of natural estrogen in it, it normalizes the general hormonal levels of the fair sex at any age, ovulation and the menstrual cycle, thereby making an invaluable contribution to achieving the desired pregnancy.

For men, the benefits of oil are justified by the fact that it enhances potency and improves the quality of sperm. As for libido, flaxseed oil provokes an increase in both sexes.

The benefits of flaxseed oil in cosmetology

The protective and regenerating properties of flax oil are important for cosmetologists. Therefore, it is used for anti-aging and moisturizing masks. The use of oil, in combination with other means, achieves the healing of mechanical damage to the skin. In addition, they treat acne, remove blackheads and blackheads, smooth out fine wrinkles, improve skin color, and lighten age spots. Cosmetic industrial products for face, body and hair care, which contain linseed oil, are very popular and valued not only by women in Russia, but also abroad.

Benefits for the skin

Not only professionals use flaxseed oil for skin care. It is used for homemade masks and creams, decoctions, compresses and infusions.

To tighten the skin around the eyes, make a compress from aromatic essential oils of sandalwood and rosewood, which are added drop by drop to 1 tbsp of flax seed oil. A napkin is soaked in the mixture, which is then applied morning and evening to the area around the eyes for 30 minutes.
A mask to improve the condition of facial skin is made from equal quantities of blue clay and linseed oil. Both components are mixed, gradually adding warm water drop by drop until you get a mass resembling thick sour cream. Apply the mask to a face cleansed of cosmetics and impurities, without touching the area around the eyes. After 15 minutes, wash off with warm water.

Benefits for eyelashes

In order to compensate for the loss of eyelash beauty due to frequent use of cosmetics or some other external factors, use a mixture of castor and linseed oils in a 1:1 ratio. The composition is applied overnight. Use soft swabs soaked in oil, brushes, and cotton swabs. The mixture can be washed off in the morning and wiped with a soft cloth. The procedure must be carried out for at least 2 months. It is important to do this regularly - every evening.

Benefits for hair

Flaxseed oil is recommended for restoring scalp follicles, accelerating hair growth, treating seborrhea and other problems associated with hair care. Apply a mask consisting of a paste of one medium onion, 1 tbsp oil, 1 tbsp honey. The mixture is applied to the hair roots and then distributed along the length of the hair using a comb. A plastic bag is placed over the head and a large towel is wrapped on top. After 40 minutes, wash off with warm water. Before using such a mask, it is necessary to check the skin's reaction to allergies to this composition.

How to take oil correctly

It is advisable to take flaxseed oil orally in the morning, on an empty stomach, 15–20 minutes before breakfast. It is not recommended to heat flax oil before use, since the benefits from a cold product will be much greater than after heat treatment. You can either drink flaxseed oil in pure or diluted form, or add it to all kinds of dishes: salads, meat or fish, side dishes, sauces. The main thing is to observe moderation. It is not recommended to take more than two tablespoons of flaxseed oil per day. It is better to start taking the product with 2-3 teaspoons, gradually increasing the dosage. You may not immediately see the benefits of flax oil: like most natural remedies, flax seed oil acts according to a cumulative system. The result of using the product will be visible when a sufficient amount of certain beneficial substances accumulates in the body. On average, the course of taking flaxseed oil is 2–3 months. Then a two-week break is required, after which you can continue to use the product.

Read: Protein Sources for Vegetarians and Vegans

Flaxseed oil: benefits and harms, how to take it when losing weight

For people prone to gaining excess weight, the high calorie content of flaxseed oil seems to be an obstacle to using it in weight loss diets. But the oil becomes effective because it accelerates metabolism and stimulates the processes of cleansing the body of toxins. In order to see results, you need to take the oil in the morning 20 minutes before meals for a month, and 1 tsp in the evening 20 minutes after meals. The dose is increased slightly every week. The maximum dose should not exceed 1 tbsp. l. In addition to flaxseed oil, the diet should not contain any other vegetable fats.