Family
- Linaceae
Components
- Mucins (about 10% of linseed weight)
- Essential fatty acids (omega 3)
- Cyanogenic glycoside
- Oleic acid
- Dietary fibre (lignan)
- Magnesium
- Vitamin B1
- Dietary Proteins
Parts used
- Seeds (ripe and dry)
Properties
- Laxative
- Emollient
Indications
Internal use
- Chronic constipation
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Cholesterol (hypercholesterolaemia, effect on LDL, the bad cholesterol)
- Stomach burning (heartburn)
- Crohn's disease
- Dry eyes
- Hypertension
External use
- Cataplasms for rheumatism and skin problems
- Coughing
Side effects
- Flatulence
Contraindications
- Children under 6 years of age, bowel obstruction, oesophageal shrinkage