Flaxseed is also known as common flax or linseed. Native to the Eastern region of the Mediterranean as well as to India, flaxseeds may be consumed in either pill or raw form or used on the skin, hair or nails as a topical treatment in the form of oils, lotions or ointments. While the fatty acids found in flaxseeds offer the greatest benefits to hair, skin and nails, they may also be found in other omega-3 and omega-6 rich food sources such as salmon or tuna. Discuss your skin, hair or nail symptoms with your medical practitioner beforehand to rule out any serious medical problems.
Background
Flaxseeds contain micronutrients such as B vitamins, magnesium, potassium, lecithin, zinc and protein. In addition to nutrient-rich content, they also have the fatty acids necessary for healthy skin, hair and nails. Rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, flaxseeds are reputed to fight off diabetes by stabilizing blood-sugar levels while maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. Omega-6 not only aids the body in proper growth and development, but also it is used as treatment for disorders such as ADHD and arthritis.
Hair
A lack of omega-3 fatty acids in the diet may lead to weak and brittle hair. Cicatricial alopecia is a condition in which inflammation of the scalp causes scarring in the follicles and prevents the growth of healthy hair. Omega-3 is believed to have an antiinflammatory effect that may ease the side effects associated with cicatricial alopecia. Flaxseeds incorporate moisture and reduce inflammation of the scalp. They may also alleviate unsightly flakes and dandruff, according to Dr. Donald Rudin at the Department of Molecular Biology of the Eastern Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute.
Nails
Constant application and removal of nail polish often has a drying effect on the nails, making them weak and brittle. Omega-3 rich flaxseeds, either in supplement form or as a topical treatment, help restore nails by infusing them with much needed moisture. This infusion of moisture allows the nails to continue to grow strong and healthy.
Caution
While regularly applying flaxseed oil to hair, skin or nails has no known negative impact, excessive consumption of flaxseeds may do the body more harm than good. Although flaxseeds are often used as a laxative due to its high dietary fiber content, if you eat too many but don't drink enough fluid they could block your intestines. In addition, large amounts of flaxseeds may diminish the effectiveness of certain oral medications because their high fiber content will prevent your body from absorbing the medication. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the average adult requires only 1 tbsp. of ground flaxseeds per day, which roughly equates to 1 or 2 grams. Dr. Frank Sacks of the Harvard School of Public Health recommends at least one food source rich in omega-3 fatty acids each day.
References
- MayoClinic: Flaxseed and Flaxseed Oil
- Organic Facts: Health Benefits of Flaxseed
- Mother Nature: Hair Loss
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Alpha-Linolenic Acid; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; March 14, 2009
- Harvard School of Public Health; Ask the Expert: Omega-3 Fatty Acids; Dr. Frank Sacks
- Herbal Powers; Flaxseed Oil
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