Flax seeds are the tiny, brown seeds of the flax plant. They are also referred to as linseeds or by the scientific name Linum usitatissimum. Ground flax seeds are added to foods or juices, and people take them for a variety of medicinal uses.
Before beginning to take flax seed or any other medicinal herb, you should consult with your health care provider for instructions.
Flaxseed & Hormones
Flax seed or flax seed oil are commonly taken to combat the discomfort of menopause. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center web site, a few studies have shown flax seed to be as effective in treating hot flashes and night sweats as hormone replacement therapy. But UMMC also says that a few more studies seem to show that flax seed had no success in treating menopausal symptoms.
The U.S. National Library of Medicine, USNLM, says that flax seed is also often used to relieve painful menstrual periods.
Flax seed also contains compounds known as lignans that mimic the effects of natural estrogen on the body. Because of this, some people take flax seed to prevent the occurrence of some types of cancer. However, it may actually be dangerous for anyone with breast cancer. Much more study needs to be done before flax seed can be recommended.
Forms of Flaxseed Used
The UMMC site tells us that flax seed oil or ground up flax seeds are used to treat a wide variety of conditions. Flax seed oil should be refrigerated and it will go rancid in a matter of a few short weeks, so be aware of the age of the oil and discard and replace it often.
The seeds of the flax plant can be ground and added to salads or juices and consumed. This method of using flax seeds also adds the effect of relieving constipation. Flax seed should be eaten shortly after grinding so they keep all of their useful properties. Never heat flax seed oil or ground flax seed because it will spoil.
So far, there is not enough clinical evidence to endorse the use of flax seeds medicinally.
Side Effects
The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center website warns that ingesting flax seeds will have a laxative effect on the body. It could also cause flatulence.
According to the UMMC web site, flax seed may interfere or interact with other medications such as blood-thinning medications, diabetic medications, oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy.
You should also avoid taking flax seed within several hours of taking any other medications because it may interfere with their absorption.
Research
The National Center for Complementary & Alternative Medicine was funding studies on flax seed as of mid 2010, but so far, these have only looked at flax seed’s effect on heart disease and high cholesterol.
The MSKCC website describes several other studies of the effects of flax seed. So far, the results are inconclusive as to whether flax seed is effective as a medicinal herb.
Considerations
Ingesting any new substance can cause an allergic reaction. If you experience a rash, hives or difficulty breathing while using flax seed, discontinue its use and contact your health care provider.
