Flax - Linum Usitatissimum
This flax (Linum usitatissimum) monograph is an excerpt from the 1999, first edition of Dr. Sharol's book "Herbal Medicine From The Heart of The Earth." You can purchase the 2020, third edition of this book with an expanded materia medica/monograph section, herbal formulas and directions on making herbal products in Dr. Sharol's Book Store. You receive free shipping in the USA. The expanded 3rd edition materia medica, and additional herbal tidbits are also available as a kindle ebook at Amazon and details on this e-book are here.
Flax seed - Linum usitatissimum in the Linaceae or Flax family
Parts used: Seed.
Taste/smell: Mucilaginous, oily.
Tendencies: Moistening.
Dosage: 1 tablespoon of crushed seeds per cup of cold water. Let partially dissolve, then drink, followed by a second cup of water. Externally, used as a poultice by powdering the herb and adding enough water to make a paste. Do not powder seed until time of use. The oils in the seed will become rancid faster when stored in powder form.
Use: (a) Mucilaginous agent, (b) Bulking agent, (c) Lubricating agent, (d) Anti-inflammatory.
Flax seed is used in chronic constipation. It is indicated for the treatment of many chronic diseases, including arthritis, psoriasis and prevention of arteriosclerosis.
It is useful as a poultice to remove splinters and is a source of phytoestrogenic lignans.
Flax is high in omega-3 fatty acids.
Contraindications: Flax should always be taken with adequate liquid. Oral drugs or herbs taken at the same time as flax may have delayed absorption due to its mucilage content. Flax is contraindicated in bowel obstruction.
If you are looking for directions on making teas or tinctures, please see our "Making Herbal Products" page.
Remember To Send This To Friends And Family Who Will Benefit From Reading It!
Social media links are at the top and bottom of the page.
Copyright 1999 by Sharol Tilgner, N.D. (ISBN 1-881517-02-0) - all rights reserved.
You Are The Healer exists due to the generosity of my readers.
The Crowdfunding I receive through regular patrons allows me to continue this website. 
“I welcome donations through my company Wise Acres LLC, of any amount in lieu of using ads from outside sources, and thank you!” Please use the Pay Pal donate button. Purchasing my paperback books from this website or e-books from Amazon is another way to support this website. Please note we are not non-profit and donations are not tax deductible.
