Flax seeds are known for their many health benefits, which include providing a hearty dose of protein and fiber, reducing appetite and aiding in weight control. Given their stellar nutrient profile, it’s no wonder that flaxseed oil is also jam-packed with similar health benefits. Flaxseed oil, also known as flax oil or linseed oil, is made from flax seeds that have been ground and pressed to release their natural oil. This health-promoting oil has a wide variety of uses, ranging from cooking to skin care.
The alpha-linolenic acid and other chemicals in flaxseed oil seem to decrease swelling, which is why some people use it for conditions that involve inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Flaxseed oil is used for heart disease, high blood pressure, high levels of cholesterol or other fats (lipids) in the blood (hyperlipidemia), and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
