Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) are brown seeds with many health properties. Flaxseed consists of mucus and oil fats containing glycerides of linoleic acid. Flaxseed helps health, and also improves the condition of the skin, hair or nails.
Nutrients contained in flaxseed
Flaxseed is called a superfood because of the multitude of valuable nutrients contained in it. The seed is rich in:
- protein,
- dietary fiber (soluble and insoluble in water),
- zinc,
- phosphorus,
- folic acid,
- omega-3 fatty acids,
- lignans (having antioxidant and phytoestrogenic properties),
- magnesium,
- copper,
- potassium,
- calcium,
- vitamin C,
- vitamin E,
- vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B.
Health properties of flaxseed
Soluble and water-insoluble fiber contained in linseed can have a laxative effect, preventively with constipation (the mass of feces is greater, and the time of intestinal transit – shorter). Thanks to fiber, the level of cholesterol in the blood is reduced, which reduces the risk of developing atherosclerosis. Fiber also allows you to maintain a sense of satiety longer, which reduces appetite.
Omega-3 fatty acids contained in linseed have a building function of cell membranes, they are precursors of prostaglandins, responsible for normal blood pressure, its coagulation. Omega-3 acids support immunity, prevent cancer, support the brain, heart, vision, strengthen joints, bones and have a positive effect on the condition of the skin.
Lignans are bioactive plant compounds known to be some of the most powerful antioxidants. They prevent, for example, osteoporosis, counteract the aging process or DNA damage. In addition, they regulate blood sugar levels, regulate hormones. They are also credited with antitumor activity.
In addition, flaxseed is helpful for:
- regulation of blood pressure,
- lowering the level of triglycerides in the serum,
- inflammation,
- allergies,
- glycemic regulation,
- regulation of metabolism,
- regulation of the work of the cardiovascular system,
- regulation of the nervous system,
- regulation of menstrual cycle disorders,
- alleviating the symptoms of menopause,
- relieving stomach and duodenal ulcers,
- gastroesophageal reflux,
- inflammation of the mucosa,
- cancers (breast, colon, prostate cancer…).
Cosmetic effect of flaxseed
Linseed contains ingredients important for hair development: zinc, B vitamins, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), calcium, iron. Thanks to regular consumption of linseed, the hair gains strength, is stronger, more moisturized, shiny, their loss decreases, while growth intensifies.
Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) contained in linseed is a polyunsaturated fatty acid from the omega-3 family. It is important in cosmetics because it prevents increased exfoliation of the epidermis. In addition, it has anti-inflammatory properties, for example at the mouth of the hair follicles. Reduces the level of free androgens, reduces hair loss. In addition, the skin secretes less sebum and the hair looks fresh longer.
How to use flaxseed
Flaxseed can be taken in liquid form or as an addition to a meal, and also applied to the hair in the form of masks or rubbing.
Flaxseed as a drink (jelly)
Pour whole or ground linseed seeds into a pot or saucepan, pour a glass of water and cook over low heat. The optimal ratio is 1 tablespoon of linseed per 100 ml of water. Cooking time: about 15 minutes. We turn off the burner and wait to cool.
A simpler way is to pour the flaxseed grains with hot water and leave (preferably undercovered) until it cools.
Many people prepare flaxseed in the evening and drink it in the morning on an empty stomach.
Flaxseed as an addition to a meal
Linseed can be added whole or in ground form to salads, cocktails, soups, porridge. It is also an addition to bread and pastries. You can use linseed instead of eggs (to replace one egg, grind a tablespoon of linseed with 2-3 tablespoons of warm water, mix and let stand for 5-10 minutes).
If you want to use linseed in ground form, grind it just before use (then it will not lose its properties).
Flaxseed as a mist for skin and hair
Boil linseed grains with water (1 teaspoon per 100 ml of water – a form more watery than jelly). After cooling, pour through a strainer into the atomizer. Spray from a distance of about 30 cm.
Flaxseed as a hair mask
Boil linseed grains with water (1 tablespoon per 100 ml of water – jelly should form). After cooling, apply to hair, rub and hold for about an hour. After this time, rinse thoroughly. The mask is more often used after washing the hair than before. It is worth trying different options to choose the right method, more beneficial for a given hair structure.
Flaxseed as a hair rinse
Boil linseed grains with water – you can boil 1 tablespoon of grains per half liter of water, or prepare standard seed jelly (1 tablespoon per 100 ml of water) and dilute.
After washing and rinsing the hair, additionally pour it with the prepared solution.