Flaxseed, also known as linseed, comes from the flax plant. Parts of the plant have been used to make fish nets and clothes, as well as for medicinal purposes. These days flax oil may be used for cooking and is known to contain beneficial fatty acids that can help to prevent high blood pressure.
Flaxseed Plant
The flaxseed plant is an annual herb that has its origins in ancient Egypt, where it was used for medicinal and nutritional purposes. Its main use was as a mild laxative, due to the fact that it is high in fiber and mucilage, a sticky substance that swells on contact with water. It helps to add bulk to the stool to allow easy transit through the intestines.
Alpha-linolenic Acid
Both the seeds and oil of the flax plant contain alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA. This essential fatty acid is a form of omega-3 fatty acid found in plants that is closely related to those found in fish oils. Omega-3 fatty acids help to lower levels of triglycerides -- a form of fat -- in the body. High levels of this fat can lead to high blood pressure. A 2007 study conducted by Hirotsugu Ueshima, et al., published in the "Journal of Hypertension," showed that intake of omega-3 fatty acids can significantly reduce the effects of high blood pressure.
Flaxseed Oil
Flaxseed oil should have a sweet, slightly nutty flavor. Because it is unsaturated, it can be damaged by exposure to light or heat and should be kept in a cool, dark place. It should not be used for frying as direct exposure to heat will destroy the oil's natural benefits. Instead, use the oil in salad dressings, sprinkle on hot or cold pasta and vegetables, or add to mashed potatoes. Add to spreads and dips or mix with margarine. Products that may contain flaxseed oil include cereal, bread and other baked goods.
Cautions
The University of Maryland Medical Center warns that flaxseed can slow down the rate at which your body absorbs oral medicines. For this reason, you should not take medicines at the same time as flaxseed or its oil. People who are diabetic or schizophrenic may not be able to absorb the beneficial fatty acids from flaxseed and should use fish oils instead.
References
- Benefits of Flax seed in Heart Disease and Cholesterol Lowering; Gloria Tsang, R.D.; 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Flaxseed Oil; May 25, 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Flaxseed; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; Oct. 11, 2008
- Hypertension; Food Omega-3 Fatty Acid Intake of Individuals ... and Their Blood Pressure; Hirotsugu Ueshima, MD, et al.; June 4, 2007
- VegFamily.com; Flaxseed and Flaxseed Oil; Brenda Davis, R.D.
