People across the world are more health conscious now than ever before. It may sound strange but fat is a very important part of the diet. As more and more people realize this fact, there has been a growing interest in the flaxseed oil, which is rich in the Omega 3 type of fat.

The Flaxseed plant also called Linum Usitatissimum (meaning ‘most useful’) has its origin in Europe 4000 years back where it was a source of fiber. Flaxseed has been a part of human and animal diets for thousands of years in Asia, Europe, and Africa, and more recently in North America and Australia.

Flaxseeds are slightly larger than sesame seeds and have a hard shell that is smooth and shiny. Their color ranges from deep amber to reddish brown depending upon whether the flax is of the golden or brown variety. While whole flaxseeds feature a soft crunch, the nutrients in ground seeds are more easily absorbed.

Flaxseeds are a rich source of lignans, substances that appear to positively affect hormone-related problems. Lignans may also be useful in preventing certain cancers and combating specific bacteria, fungi, and viruses, including those that cause cold sores and shingles. The other benefits of flaxseeds are:

Reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases: Several studies indicate that flaxseed oil, as well as ground flaxseeds, can lower cholesterol, thereby significantly reducing the risk of heart disease. Taking flaxseed oil may also protect against angina (chest pain) and high blood pressure. Flaxseed oil may be useful in preventing a second heart attack. It may also help prevent elevated blood pressure by inhibiting inflammatory reactions that cause artery-hardening plaque and poor circulation.

Counter inflammation: Omega-3 fatty acids appear to limit the inflammatory reaction. In cases of lupus, flaxseed oil not only reduces inflammation in the joints, skin and kidneys, but also lowers cholesterol levels that may be elevated by the disease. Taking flaxseed oil for gout may lessen the often sudden and severe joint pain or swelling that is a symptom of this condition. Taken for inflammatory bowel disease, flaxseed oil can help to calm inflammation and repair any intestinal tract damage.

Helps in fibrocystic breasts: Omega-3 fatty acids have the ability to boost the absorption of iodine, a mineral often found in low levels in women suffering from fibrocystic breasts. Thus flaxseed oil is potentially valuable for treating this often painful condition.

Controls Gastro intestinal problems: Because they are high in dietary fibre, ground flaxseeds can help ease the passage of stools and thus relieve constipation, haemorrhoids and diverticular disease. Flaxseeds may also keep intestinal pouches free of waste and thus keep potential infection at bay. In addition, the oil may prevent painful gallstones from developing and even dissolve existing stones.

Treat skin diseases: The essential fatty acids in flaxseed oil are largely responsible for its skin-healing powers. Red, itchy patches of eczema, psoriasis and rosacea often respond to the anti-inflammatory actions and overall skin-soothing properties of flaxseed oil. Sunburned skin may heal faster when treated with the oil as well. In cases of acne, the flaxseed oil encourage thinning of the oily sebum that clogs pores.

Promote healthy hair and nails: The abundant omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseed oil have been shown to contribute to healthy hair growth. Hair problems exacerbated by psoriasis or eczema of the scalp may respond to the skin-revitalizing and anti-inflammatory actions of flaxseed oil as well. Similarly, the oil nourishes dry or brittle nails, stopping them from cracking or splitting.

Reduces cancer risk: The lignans in flaxseed oil appear to play a role in protecting against breast, colon, prostate, and perhaps skin cancer. Women with breast cancer, regardless of the degree of cancer invasiveness, may benefit from treatment with flaxseed oil.

Treat menopausal symptoms: Because the hormone-balancing lignans and plant estrogens (phytoestrogens) in flaxseed oil help stabilize a woman’s estrogen-progesterone ratio, they can have beneficial effects on the menstrual cycle, and relieve the hot flashes of pre-menopause and menopause.

Fight prostate problems: Flaxseed oil may help to prevent swelling and inflammation of the prostate, the small gland located below the bladder in males that tends to enlarge with age.

Flax seed, either in oil supplements, or whole or milled seeds are beneficial for your body’s health. The Omega-3 fatty acid in flax seed is an excellent prevention or remedy to some diseases and skin disorders. So, if you want a healthy life today, just start taking flax seed.