What is Flax? What are the Benefits of Flaxseed?
FLAX AND THE USES OF FLAXSEED
Flax is a plant with a fine taproot, reaching 50-100 cm in size and should be harvested in its annual state. The native land of this flax is Turkey, and it can also be easily found in countries such as Iraq, Egypt, and Syria. Flax is considered a cultivated plant today. Along with being seen as a cultivated plant, it is now grown in Europe, Asia, and both North and South America. Flax has spear-like leaves arranged along its stem. When flax flowers, it takes on blue, white, light blue, and pink colors, and its flowers are umbrella-shaped. The benefits of flax are found in its seeds. Therefore, it is a plant preferred more for its seeds. Flaxseeds are oval-shaped and are yellowish-red and brown in color. Flaxseeds are approximately 1 millimeter thick, 4-6 millimeters long, and 2-3 millimeters wide.
BENEFITS OF FLAXSEED
Flax is used in textiles. Fibers can be obtained from the stem of flax. It is a high-quality yarn and has been valuable since its use in the textile industry was discovered. Linseed oil is obtained from flaxseed. Linseed oil is used in paints, food industries, and the production of oilcloth. Furthermore, linseed oil is the highest quality oil among vegetable oils. The biggest feature that distinguishes linseed oil from other vegetable oils is that it contains omega-3 fatty acids. In addition to these, the pulp that remains after flaxseeds are thoroughly crushed and their oil is extracted makes a valuable animal feed.
BENEFITS OF FLAXSEED
• Flaxseed is beneficial for blood vessels.
• It reduces the risk of developing colon and breast cancer.
• Due to containing omega-3 fatty acids, its most significant differentiating feature from other vegetable oils, it prevents skin dryness.
• Flaxseed is useful in lowering cholesterol levels.
• It is beneficial in reducing or even eliminating joint problems.
• It prevents putrefaction in the intestines, associated pain, and inflammation.
HOW TO USE
2-3 teaspoons of the plant's seeds are added to a glass of boiling water with a teaspoon. A tea is prepared by steeping for 15 minutes. It is recommended to drink 2 cups a day, one in the morning and one in the evening.
