Flax Seed: Rich Source of Omega-3 & Antioxidants
Flax Seed History, Health Benefits, Culinary Uses & Storage Tips
Aug 21, 2008
Flax seed is an ancient grain that has been used for its health benefits by people for thousands of years. Today it is being looked at as an equivalent to fish oil because of the antioxidants it contains.
Flax Seed History
Flax seed was used as far back as 8000 BC according to evidence that has been found in excavations in the Mediterranean region. It has been said to have been used by Hippocrates, the father of medicine. In the 8th century. King Charlemagne passed laws and regulations encouraging his subjects to regularly raise and consume flax. Today it is being recognized as an edible item and being researched for health benefits and culinary uses.
Flax Seed Plants
Flax seed plants are annuals with unusual blue flowers. It is grown for culinary, industrial and aesthetic purposes. All parts of the plant are useable from the seeds to the fiber extracted from the “skin” of the plant that can be used to make clothing, bedding and ropes as well as other products. The popularity of the seeds has been increasing because of it is believed to have heart-healty benefits.
Flaxseed Types
Flax seed is available as Golden Flax Seed or Brown Flax Seeds.
- Flax seed can be found in the form of flour or powder, whole and ground or bruised.
- Flax seed flour or powder can be dissolved in liquid as a source of fiber unlike the oil which contains no fiber.
- Flax seed, whole or ground, can be sprinkled on food or mixed with liquids.
- Flax seed oil is available as a liquid or in capsules and taken orally.
Flaxseed Culinary Uses
Flax seed can be used in baking however the ground flour has a different consistency than that of wheat. The oil should not be used for cooking because it will destroy the nutritional value. It should not be used for hot foods which should be cooled before it is added.
Flax Seed Storage Tips
Flax seed can be purchased whole or already ground. It deteriorates quickly and should be stored in a cool place to limit oxidation and light exposure and ground just before use. Flax seed oil must be refrigerated to slow down the loss of quality. It should be put in an opaque bottle as it becomes degraded by sunlight, heat or oxygen.
Flax Seed Health Benefits
Flax seed health benefits are still being researched to determine whether the claims made for it are valid. Because it is rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6, the indications are that is may help with such maladies as depression, reduce morning stiffness and painful joins in arthritics, symptoms of asthma, lower blood pressure and reduce arrhythmia.
Flax Seed Interactions
Flax seed has been found to interact with medications for blood thinning, diabetes, and hormone replacement therapy and may slow down the absorption of some oral medications or nutrients. It should not be used in any form before consulting a health care professional.
As research continues as to the benefits to humans of flax seed, all indications are, because it contains Omega-3 and Omega-6 antioxidants, it is expected to become more widely used to prevent or treat illnesses.
Bibliography:
Magee, Elaine. The Flax Cookbook: Recipes and Strategies for Getting the Most from the Most Powerful Plant on the Plant. Cambridge, MA: DeCapo Press, 2003
Sources:
AmeriFlax Association
Annals of Internal Medicine, Vol 123, No. 12, December 15, 1995
Flax Council of Canada
University of Maryland Medicine Center
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