Flax seed oil, also called linseed oil, is pressed from the seeds of the flax plant. Flax is an annual plant that grows from one to three feet tall with blue bell shaped flowers growing at the top. Historically, the fibers from this plant were used to make linen and the oil was used to make linoleum.
Essential Fatty Acids
Flax seed oil is a good source of both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. The omega-3 fatty acid in flax seed oil is in the form of alpha-linolenic acid, which your body can turn into eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), though research suggests that our bodies are not very efficient in the conversion. Omega-3 in the post-converted form of EPA and DHA and Omega-6 are considered essential to maintain overall health.
Heart Benefits
The University of Maryland Medical Center states that people who consume a balanced diet rich in the omega fatty acids generally show healthier cholesterol levels than those who do not, and tend to be better protected against heart attacks and heart disease. There have been some small studies that show adding flax seed oil to your diet can lower your cholesterol as well as studies that show increasing your omega-3's can also reduce blood pressure.
Other Benefits
The University of Maryland Medical Center also mentions there is research that shows a link to ADHD and people who do not receive enough alpha-linolenic acid. Increasing your diet to include sources high in fatty acids, such as flax seed oil, can improve ADHD symptoms. Other emerging research suggests that alpha-linolic acid can improve some of the milder symptoms of menopause. A study published by the University of Toronto shows that mice given flax seed oil in combination with a particular cancer treatment medication helped reduce breast cancer tumors up to 87 percent. You should always speak to your physician before taking any supplements.
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