MEDICINAL PROPERTIES OF FLAX
Medicinal uses of linseed
- Internal use preparations with flax: It has been used to treat constipation, to protect the gastric and urinary membrane.
It is also very useful for its mucolytic properties by helping to eliminate the secretions that take place in the respiratory tract as consequence of cold, bronchitis, etc.
The richness in alpha-linoleic acid and other fatty unsaturated acids of linseed protects our heart, helping to avoid angina pectoris by preventing arteriosclerosis and diminishing cholesterol.
- External remedies with flaxseeds: In external use, one takes advantage of its demulcent properties (it softens and protects the irritated parts of the skin)
It also has emollient properties (It softens the skin, forming a layer on it that impedes the evaporation of water) So, we can elaborate cataplasms with the flour of the seeds that will be suitable for the treatment of skin affections,
Gargles with cold infusions of seeds during 9 hours are useful to combat sore throat. (Make gargles with this preparation)
With the infusion of 10 gr. of seeds for a liter of water can be carried out vaginal rinsings for the treatment of the inflammations of the uterus (metritis) The same preparation can be used to carry out enemas to reduce swelling of the rectum.
Industrial uses of flax
Flax has been cultivated since ancient times for the extraction of fibers and oil. Flax oil is mainly used in industry of paints and varnishes because of its fast drying capacity, leading to the formation of a protective layer against environmental factors.
Hence linseed oil is used to protect wood, iron or other surfaces exposed to environmental factors. This oil comes as a major component in the manufacture of linoleum, a type of waterproof product used to cover floors.
Flax fibers, extracted from the plant stems, are used to make thread with which fabric can be manufactured. The process may be performed mechanically or manually. In the latter case, the cut plant parts are exposed to ambient conditions in order to its natural fermentation can decompose the plant tissues. This allows the plant fiber to be separated from other unwanted parts. With it, after various manual processes, a natural yarn is obtained, used for making a cotton-like fabric, although stronger, smoother to the touch and, like cotton, very fresh and absorbent.
More information on flax and other medicinal plants
