Linseed Remedies
Printer-friendly versionApart from being a food with health-changing properties Linseed (or Flax as it is often known) is the basis for many traditional natural remedies for a wide range of conditions. It was used in bygone times long before antibiotics were discovered and is used today by naturopaths, herbalists and doctors. It has lots of uses in the domestic medicine chest.
The nature of Linseed is interesting. It is an exceptionally delicate plant and yet provides us with some of the toughest of all fibres, linen. As a medicinal plant its action is extremely gentle but powerfully effective.
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1. Linseed/Flaxseed poultices are useful for areas of inflammation such as bruises, strains, cysts, bursitis, boils, ulcers, and skin conditions.
To 1 cup ground linseed add 1 cup hot water from the kettle. and allow to stand somewhere warm for ten minutes..
Spread the paste onto the middle of a suitably sized linen (or cotton) cloth,. cover with linen, or other fine fabric. Apply to affected area, wrap with piece of folded towelling and hold in place with safety pins or firm but not tight bandage.
When the constipation is a result of changes in diet or lifestyle whole linseeds are a traditional store-cupboard remedy.
Constipation can affect people of any age if their diet is short of the fibre that supports healthy gut flora, they become inactive or have their digestive system disrupted by illness or medical treatment . As a traditional treatment, either variety of whole Linseed is effectively gentle, bulk forming, and naturally lubricating. It is equally useful for young and old alike. Simply place two tablespoons of bronze or gold linseed in a glass of warm water, allow it to swell for a few minutes and then drink – do this once or twice a day. Alternatively add to food and drink an extra glass of water. If the constipation is a chronic problem or the patient is elderly or there is a possibility of diverticulitis regular use of ground linseed is a better option. If the problem persists consult a doctor 3. "Flax Oil Cures Anxiety" from the EarthClinic website. In a cutting from an unidentified newspaper passed to me by a Flax enthusiast: Sharon from the US reports that having increased her daily dose of linseed(flaxseed) oil that contained ground linseed particles her anxiety and adrenaline levels reduced. Although she knew it helped bi-polar disorders she was surprised to find it worked on anxiety also. After taking a break from linseed oil her symptoms of anxiety returned. Many others report similar calming effects. When the mood shift is hormonally based it is worth increasing the level of ground linseed (flaxseed0 in the diet.
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Flax Farm is keen to stress these reports are anecdotal and should not be relied on as a basis for medical decision. Always consult a doctor if you have concerns about your health but don't be afraid to work with your and take control of your own health.
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