Generality
Flaxseed oil is extracted from the seeds of the Linum usitatissimum plant.
From these seeds - particularly rich in mineral salts, proteins and above all lipids - it is possible to extract an oil consisting of 40-60% alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), 15% of oleic acid and a small part of other molecules biologically active, such as lignans and glycosides.
The anti-inflammatory activity, the antioxidant activity and the vasoprotective activity constitute the biological pull on which the clinical and preventive use of linseed oil is directed.
Indications
Why is flaxseed oil used? What is it for?
Flaxseed oil is classically attributed with anti-inflammatory, anti-atherogenic, anti-thrombotic and anti-proliferative properties.
For these reasons, flaxseed oil is used in the prevention and treatment of constipation, dyslipidemia, hypertension and cardiovascular complications.
Recent studies have also shown the usefulness of flaxseed oil in the management of complex diseases, such as autoimmune diseases and cancer.
The biological properties of linseed oil are clearly attributable to the presence of ALA, the progenitor of the essential fatty acids of the Omega 3 series, known for their marked anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory activities.
Property and Effectiveness
What benefits has flaxseed oil shown during the studies?
Despite lacking a flourishing literature such as fish oil, flaxseed oil has gradually carved a prominent place in the nutritional field.
Flaxseed oil and cardiovascular function
One of the most important areas of application of linseed oil is cardiology.
The literature would attribute to both ALA and lignans - of which flaxseed oil is particularly rich - cardioprotective and vasoprotective functions.
These activities would be carried out through different mechanisms, such as:
- Inhibition of platelet aggregation, and less tendency to form thrombi;
- Anti-inflammatory action against the endothelium;
- Cholesterol-lowering action;
- Antihypertensive action.
Flaxseed oil and antiaging medicine
In recent years the use of linseed oil has invaded the world of medicine and anti-aging nutrition.
At the base of this potential there would be the importance of respecting the appropriate relationships between omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, useful in maintaining the quality of cells and tissues. All this would preserve the functionality of entire systems, thus supporting healthy aging.
Flaxseed oil and intestinal health
Although not entirely characterized, given the absence of noteworthy clinical trials, linseed oil is traditionally given an important function on maintaining normal intestinal function.
This activity, in addition to the emollient effect of the oil on the faeces, would once again be attributable to the presence of lignans, which in addition to normalizing peristalsis, would exercise a protective function against the intestinal mucosa.
Doses and method of use
How to use flaxseed oil
Flaxseed oil is now available in various formats: 40-60% ALA capsules, functional foods and oil in liquid form.
The dosage of intake varies depending on the format chosen.
Generally, two teaspoons of linseed oil are able to easily meet the needs of ALA.
It should also be remembered how - to complete the profile of fatty acids taken - it would be advisable to add linseed oil to a balanced and balanced Mediterranean diet.
In order to preserve the quality of the product, it is recommended to preserve the linseed oil away from sources of light and heat.
Side effects
The use of flaxseed oil has generally proved to be safe and well tolerated.
The most frequently observed adverse reactions would mainly involve the gastro-enteric apparatus, with dyspepsia and diarrhea.
The incidence of coagulation problems is decidedly more rare.
Contraindications
When shouldn't linseed oil be used?
The use of flaxseed oil is contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or food from which it was extracted.
Pharmacological Interactions
Which drugs or foods can modify the effect of flaxseed oil?
There are several noteworthy drug interactions between linseed oil and other active ingredients.
More precisely:
- The simultaneous intake of linseed oil and aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, garlic, ginkgo biloba and oral anticoagulants such as warfarin, could increase the risk of bleeding.
- The simultaneous intake of flaxseed oil and fish oil could contribute to longer clotting times with all the possible consequences.
Precautions for use
What do you need to know before taking flaxseed oil?
Given the lack of studies concerning the long-term safety profile, the intake of flaxseed oil should be avoided, or supervised by a doctor, during pregnancy, lactation and in pediatric age.
By virtue of the antithrombotic effect, flaxseed oil should not be taken in patients with bleeding disorders, in patients on anticoagulant therapy and before surgery.
