Flax Seed Oil: Uses, Benefits, Risks, and a Few Tips

It’s in my nature to keep looking for natural ingredients that hold the magical potency to shape our health with brilliance and joy. Where the internet speaks tons about common things that help the human body, there remain a few hidden gems that people rarely talk about. One of these less-known health ingredients is Flax Seed. Our forebears used to use flax seed oil in guns to make them run smoother. However, if we look now, flax seed oil is gaining popularity among health enthusiasts.

Flaxseed oil, also known as linseed oil, has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its numerous health benefits. Because I’ve been using it for quite some time now, I can confidently say that it has made a significant difference in my overall health and well-being. However, just like everyone, I too had stepped upon the wrong tile while taking it, and it cost me well. But don’t you worry, I’ll tell you all and ensure that you don’t do the same mistake again. Let’s learn about its uses, benefits, risks, and tips on how to incorporate it into your daily routine.

How can we use flaxseed oil?

Unlike our ancestors who used it for different purposes, today, Flaxseed oil is used in a variety of ways. Here are a few ways it can be consumed:

• Used as a cooking oil;

• Salad dressing;

• Supplement in capsule form;

• Used topically as a natural moisturizer for the skin and hair;

• Oiling machinery parts.

Because flaxseed oil has a bit bitter and pungent taste, many people find it hard to consume in its raw form. If you require it for some health-related purposes, you may take it in capsule form or blend it with other oils over your salad. This will give you a different taste and kick. But why do we use flaxseed oil at all?

Benefits of flax seed oil

If you, by any chance, read wellness articles, you surely must have heard of this powerful thing called Omega. Omega fatty acids are types of polyunsaturated fatty acids that hold numerous health benefits; however, our bodies fail to produce these. Omega-3, 6, and 9 are the most common omega fatty acids that health fanatics look for. One of the primary benefits of flaxseed oil is its high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids. These are essential for maintaining a healthy heart, brain, and joints.

Apart from helping our heart, brain, and overall body, flaxseed oil has also been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, lower blood pressure, and improve skin health. And like icing on the cake, flaxseed oil contains lignans, which are antioxidants that help protect against cancer and other chronic diseases. Considering these benefits, you might want to open up a bottle and devour it right now. But wait!

Risks involved with flaxseed oil

While flaxseed oil is generally considered safe, there are some risks to be aware of.

• Firstly, it can interact with certain medications; so, it's important to talk to your doctor before taking it as a supplement.

• Also, because Flaxseed oil is a blood thinner, taking large amounts can create issues for BP patients.

• Consuming large amounts of flaxseed oil can also cause diarrhea, stomach pain, and bloating.

Now, here are a few tips to keep in mind while chucking over this potent oil.

Tips for flaxseed oil intake

• Start by adding it to your salad dressing or using it as a cooking oil for low-heat dishes.

• Be sure to store it in the refrigerator to prevent it from going rancid.

• If you're taking it as a supplement, start with a low dose and gradually increase it over time.

• Always talk to your doctor if you are taking it for health-related issues or are already under some medications.

• Don’t use it as cooking oil as heat can destroy the vital nutrients inside it.

Now, that you know all about it, make sure you buy quality flax seed oil. Look for an alternative to eBay to buy health and beauty products at a lower price.