Flax seed: uses, side effects, interactions

Benefits

What are the benefits of flaxseed?

Flaxseed is a type of whole grain that is often used as flour for food processing. However, flaxseed is also commonly processed as an herbal supplement to treat various digestive disorders, such as:

Chronic constipation
Inflammation of the intestine
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Diarrhea
Inflammation of the lining of the large intestine
Ulcerative colitis or irritation of the lining of the large intestine
Peritonitis
Inflammation of the small intestine

In addition, these seeds can also be used to treat heart and blood vessel disorders, including high cholesterol, blockage of blood vessels, high blood pressure, and coronary heart disease.

Have a problem with acne? Supplements made from flax seed this is able to handle it. Some people also take this herbal supplement to treat:

Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Kidney problems in people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
Menopause symptoms
Breast pain
Uncontrolled diabetes
Obesity
Depression
Bladder infection

Other uses include medication for sore throats, upper respiratory tract infections (ISPA), and coughs.

Some people use this supplement to lower their risk of developing weak bones (osteoporosis) and to protect against breast cancer, lung cancer, colon cancer, and prostate cancer.

How does it work?

There is not enough research into how this herbal supplement works. Discuss with your herbalist or doctor for more information. However, there are several studies that show that this type of seed has anticancer properties and is high in fiber, so it is good for body health.

The high fiber in flaxseeds makes you endure hunger for a longer time.

Dose

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult with an herbalist or doctor before using this remedy.

What is the usual dosage for flaxseed?

In fact, there is no definite recommended dosage for this herbal supplement. However, some studies suggest that:

For type 2 diabetes: 600 mg of certain flaxseed lignans extract three times daily, providing 320 mg of lignans, for 12 weeks.
For high cholesterol: Bake with other foods such as muffins or bread containing flaxseeds and ground flaxseeds giving a daily dose of 40-50 grams of flaxseeds.
To improve kidney function in people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): 15 grams of ground flaxseed twice daily with cereal, or orange or tomato juice.
For mild menopause symptoms: 40 grams of crushed flaxseeds or mixed in bread dough every day.
To improve kidney function in people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): 15 grams of ground flaxseed twice daily with cereal, or orange or tomato juice.
For mild menopause symptoms: 40 grams of crushed flaxseeds or mixed in bread dough every day.

The dosage of herbal supplements may vary from patient to patient. The dose you will need depends on your age, health, and several other conditions. Herbal supplements are not always safe for consumption. Discuss with your herbalist or doctor for a dosage that is suitable for you.

In what forms is flaxseed available?

These herbal supplements can be available in the following forms and dosages: capsules, oils, powders, or seeds.

Side effects

What side effects can flaxseed cause?

Flaxseed extract can cause several side effects, including death. Some of the symptoms of side effects:

Nausea and vomiting
Anorexia
Diarrhea
Bloated
Gastrointestinal obstruction
Hypersensitivity reaction
Weakness

Not everyone experiences this side effect. There may be other side effects which are not listed here. If you have concerns about certain side effects, please consult your herbalist or doctor.

Security

What should I know before consuming flaxseeds?

Store flax in the refrigerator to prevent the fatty acids from breaking down. Raw flax may not be safe, as it is considered poisonous.

Always monitor for hypersensitivity and overdose reactions. If so, stop using this herb and take an antihistamine or other suitable therapy.

Flaxseeds can lower blood sugar levels and may increase the blood sugar-lowering effect of some medications used for diabetes. If you have diabetes and are taking this herbal supplement then monitor your blood sugar levels closely.

Because flaxseeds may act like the hormone estrogen, they can make some hormone-sensitive conditions worse. Some of these conditions include breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids.

This herbal supplement can also lower diastolic blood pressure. So this supplement will only make your blood pressure lower if you have low blood pressure.

The distribution and use of herbal supplements is not strictly regulated by the BPOM like medical drugs. Further research is still needed to ensure its safety. Before using, consult an herbalist or doctor for more information to make sure the benefits of using herbal supplements outweigh the risks.

How safe are flaxseeds?

Hemp should not be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This herb should not be given to children and should not be used by people with intestinal obstruction or dehydration, or by people with hypersensitivity.

This supplement is also able to slow blood clotting. Don't use it if you have a bleeding disorder.

Interaction

What kinds of interactions might occur when I consume flaxseed?

This herbal supplement can interact with other medications or with any health conditions you have. Consult an herbalist or doctor before use. Tell your doctor and pharmacist about the drugs and supplements you use.

Interactions may occur if hemp extract supplements are taken together with:

All oral medicines. The absorption of the drug may decrease if it is taken together with hemp.
Anticoagulant, antiplatelet. Hemp can increase the risk of bleeding
Antidiabetic drugs, laxatives. Hemp can increase the action of laxatives, result in diarrhea, and are antidiabetic
Cholesterol, triglycerides. Hemp can lower cholesterol and increase triglycerides
glucose: hemp might lower blood glucose

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.