Ultimate Guide to Flaxseed Oil: Benefits, Uses, and Side Effects

What is Flaxseed Oil?

A lot has been said about flaxseed oil from those who believe it to be the next great ingredient in the wellness industry. From the seeds being a superfood and nutrient boost to smoothies to the flaxseed oil giving legacy skincare oils a tough run - this natural carrier oil has taken the internet by storm.

Flaxseed oil is a cold-pressed oil extracted from the seeds of Linum usitatissimum and has a neutral aroma. It can be used to dilute essential oils, formulate body oils, or can also be added to handmade soaps. The surprisingly high quantities of ALA and omega 6 in flaxseed oil are a boon for heart and skin health.

Also known as linseed oil, Flaxseed Oil has a long-standing history of being used in Egyptian, European, and Mesopotamian cultures for its numerous health benefits. In the last few years, we have seen an increase in demand in the United States, particularly in California. Read on to learn about the health benefits, uses, and possible side effects of flaxseed oil, a simple oil that is here to stay.

Flaxseed Oil Benefits

With more and more people adopting a vegan lifestyle in Los Angeles, flaxseed oil is looked at as a vegan alternative to fish oil. From Pilates fanatics to yoga enthusiasts, everyone is trying to include it in their lifestyle by adding it to salads or smoothies. Studies published in various American journals have observed its significant role in keeping heart and skin healthy. The Covid 19 pandemic also saw a surge in supplements made out of flaxseed oil and its extracts.

What is Flaxseed Oil Good For?

• Offers high quantities of ALA and omega 3 fatty acids
• Reduces muscle and joint pain
• Improves memory and cognitive skills
• Reduces dryness and nourishes skin
• Balances blood pressure
• Reduces inflammation and provides relief from related concerns
• Helps balance weight gain
• Improves hydration and skin’s protective layer
• Makes hair soft and shiny

Is Flaxseed Oil Good for You?

Yes, flaxseed oil is excellent for your heart, skin, brain and hair health. If you have already been using flax seeds and are now intrigued to to try out its cold-pressed oil, here are some reasons for you to give it a shot. Flaxseed oil is excellent for making skin smooth and supple, reducing dryness, controlling diabetes, and improving memory. Its rich, healthy fat content provides lubrication to joints and reduces inflammation. Whether you are taking it orally or using it for topical application, flaxseed oil is a gift you just can’t miss.

Flaxseed Oil for Hair

The essential fatty acids in flaxseed oil nourish hair follicles and improve shine. Whether you plan to use it topically or as a supplement, the hair loving nutrient profile of linseed oil will give you stronger and lustrous hair. It also improves scalp health by reducing dandruff and excess sebum production. Add a few drops to your hair mask to reduce split ends or mix 1 teaspoon in 100 ml of your hair oil for enhanced benefits.

Flaxseed Oil for Skin and Face

One of the main reasons to use flaxseed oil for skin and face is to reduce dryness. Cathy Newman, a wellness expert based out of Texas, says it is excellent for locking moisture as omega 6 and ALA create a barrier on the skin for moisture loss and also add more moisture. It also protects against UV rays and reduces inflammation on skin.

“Flaxseed oil is an interesting choice to add to your skincare routine as it soothes, moisturizes, and protects against stressors” says Cathy.

Research* shows that flaxseed oil improves skin sensitivity in both dry and oily skin. It also improves scaling and flaky skin concerns and is a great addition to winter skincare regime.

Linseed Oil for Cholesterol and Weight Loss

Flaxseed oil, also known as linseed oil, contains almost 70% ALA and 20% oleic acid. Its natural compounds mimic the profile of fish oil and similar to it, it helps improve heart health and control cholesterol. Studies have also shown flaxseed or linseed oil to be beneficial in preventing conditions like arrhythmia and cardiac arrest. Contrary to the diet fads, the consumption of healthy fats is vital for optimum body function and balancing weight. It regulates blood sugar and also supports weight lose.

While more studies are needed to establish concrete proof, it won’t be wrong to say consuming flaxseed oil supplements might provide healthy fats responsible for improved cholesterol levels and weight loss.

Flaxseed Oil for Constipation and Digestive Health

Omega 3 and omega 6 in flaxseed oil create a lubricating lining in the intestines, that improves bowel movements and reduces constipation. It creates the optimum environment for the growth of healthy microbes that strengthen the digestive system. The anti-inflammatory properties of linseed oil soothe the inner lining and provide relief from conditions associated with a sensitive gut.

Many studies have established the connection between a healthy gut and balanced mental health. By improving digestive functions, flaxseed oil improves neurological symptoms and conditions associated with anxiety or mood swings. Surprisingly, it also synthesizes the production of happy hormones like dopamine and serotonin in our brains.

Flaxseed Oil for Dry Eyes

You would be surprised to know that healthy fats are responsible for the production of tears in our eyes. The right combination of omega 3 and omega 6 in flaxseed oil helps improve tear production and reduces dry eyes. Who knew that all that crying over your ex could actually be beneficial for your eyes?

Flaxseed oil has fantastic anti-inflammatory properties which calms the irritation caused in the body due to any external irritants. This is applicable to eye health as it might be beneficial for reducing itchiness and burning in eyes. However, this doesn’t mean you start pouring flaxseed oil in eyes. Putting it inside your eyes can be cause severe harm, you should only use it as supplement and let flaxseed oil stir its magic from within.

Flaxseed Oil with Lignans

A combination of flaxseed oil with lignans can be an excellent combination for women’s health. Fluctuation in women’s hormones is often the underlying cause for a variety of variety of women’s health challenges.

Lignans are plant compounds that resemble the female hormone estrogen in the body. The unique combination of flaxseed with lignans can improve the balance of hormones and improve well-being.

Flaxseed Oil for Fat Loss and Hair Growth

In addition to adding moisture, flaxseed oil improves scalp health by reducing inflammation and dandruff. This provides the perfect environment for hair to grow to its full potential. Linseed oil also prevents the loss of essential nutrients from the scalp, further strengthening roots and hair follicles.

Ironically good fats are important to lose unwanted weight and fat from the body. By alleviating toxins, flaxseed oil helps the body to heal from within.

Flaxseed Oil for Pregnancy

Irrespective of its numerous health benefits, flaxseed oil should not be used during pregnancy as it can be fatal for the mother and child. It is extremely heating in nature and can cause complications. Consult a medical professional for more details on consuming flaxseed oil during pregnancy.

Having said that, there is a safer way to use it for all expecting mothers - topical application. Using a diluted blend of flaxseed oil with coconut oil can be a safer way to include it in your wellness routine. Goes without saying that a patch test is must to check for potential sensitivities.

Health Benefits of Flaxseed Oil for Men and Women

Both women and men can benefit from the countless benefits of flaxseed oil. Women can experience improved hormone levels, better moods, reduced PMS symptoms and lowered joint pain with continuous usage.

For men, flaxseed oil improves heart heath and maintains cholesterol levels. It gets rid of excess toxins from the body and provides superb antioxidant properties.

Uses of Flaxseed and Linseed Oil

• There are multiple ways of using flaxseed or linseed oil for skin, hair, and health. We’ve put together some easy ways for you to harness its benefits.
• Use food-grade flaxseed oil as salad dressing or pour a tsp over pasta and pizza.
• Mix with essential oils for soap making in cold-process recipes.
• Add to face masks, body oils, face serums, hair oils, and other cosmetic and beauty formulations.
• Make a relaxing aromatherapy blend by adding 2 drops of cardamom oil, rose oil, and geranium oil to 1 tablespoon of flaxseed oil.
• Mix 5 drops of flaxseed oil with 1 tsp of coconut oil and massage your body before yoga for a regenerative experience.
• Use as a base for essential oils for perfumes to create alcohol-free natural scents.
• Wholesale and bulk packs can be used to manufacture supplements and other healthcare products.

Side Effects of Flaxseed and Linseed Oil

With its natural and therapeutic benefits, flaxseed or linseed oil can also have some potential side effects that need to be checked before going all in.

While it improves constipation, excessive usage of flaxseed oil can cause diarrhea, nausea and bloating issues. Moderation is key here. Stop using it if you notice nose bleeding or low blood pressure. It also interferes with hormone levels and should be completely avoided by pregnant or lactating women.

Conclusion

It contains high quantities of ALA, omega 6, and omega 3 that support heart health, skin, hair, joints, and neurological function. You can use it for cosmetic products, perfumes, aromatherapy, diffuser oils, supplements and so much more. However, following precautions and checking for possible side effects will ensure you get the most out of linseed oil.

If you are looking to source bulk flaxseed oil at wholesale prices in the United States online, then Aromachology Oils offers a huge selection for every need. We also offer a wide selection of wholesale essential oils for all your business needs. Our products deliver results and our support team is always available to assist all your B2B needs.