Flaxseed Oil (Linseed Oil)

Description

Flaxseed oil, also known as linseed oil, is extracted from the seeds of the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum), one of the oldest cultivated crops in human history. While flaxseed has long been celebrated for its health benefits, flaxseed oil is revered as one of the richest plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritional powerhouse for those seeking heart, brain, and skin health. It’s used not just in kitchens, but also in natural medicine, cosmetics, and even wood treatment—though only food-grade flaxseed oil is suitable for consumption.

Flaxseed oil is typically cold-pressed to preserve its delicate structure and retain its vibrant golden-yellow hue, nutty aroma, and slightly earthy flavor. Its main nutritional highlight is alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential omega-3 fatty acid that the body cannot produce on its own. Flaxseed oil contains up to 60% ALA, making it one of the most concentrated sources available in the plant kingdom.

Due to its fragile structure, flaxseed oil has a very low smoke point (~225°F / 107°C), which makes it unsuitable for cooking or heating. Instead, it is best used as a finishing oil, nutritional supplement, or in cold dishes to retain its health benefits and flavor.

Key health benefits of flaxseed oil include:

• Heart health support by lowering blood pressure and reducing triglyceride levels

• Anti-inflammatory effects that may relieve symptoms of arthritis and chronic inflammation

• Cognitive protection, possibly reducing age-related brain decline

• Digestive health thanks to its mild laxative effect and ability to soothe the gut lining

• Hormonal balance, particularly beneficial for women during menopause

• Skin nourishment, reducing dryness, irritation, and signs of aging

Flaxseed oil also contains lignans (though less than whole flaxseeds), vitamin E, and phytoestrogens, all of which add antioxidant protection and support immune health.

In the kitchen, flaxseed oil is used sparingly but powerfully. Best applications include:

• Drizzling over salads, yogurt, or smoothies

• Mixing into dips, hummus, or guacamole

• Adding to cold pasta or grain bowls

• Stirring into oatmeal or cottage cheese

• Blending into protein shakes or meal replacement drinks

Its nutty, slightly grassy flavor enhances a wide range of raw or lightly chilled foods. Some prefer to combine flaxseed oil with lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for a healthy and tangy salad dressing. It can also be added to nut butters, low-heat sauces, or raw soups like gazpacho.

Flaxseed oil is also widely consumed as a nutritional supplement, often taken by the spoonful (1–2 tsp/day) or in softgel form to ensure daily omega-3 intake, especially for vegetarians and vegans.

In skincare, flaxseed oil is a gentle and nourishing emollient. Applied topically, it helps:

• Improve skin elasticity and tone

• Calm irritated or inflamed skin

• Promote wound healing

• Strengthen the skin barrier

• Reduce redness associated with eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis

Due to its extreme sensitivity to heat, air, and light, flaxseed oil should always be:

• Stored in dark, airtight glass bottles

• Refrigerated immediately after opening

• Used within 6–8 weeks of opening for maximum potency

• Never heated or cooked with

Unopened bottles should also be kept in cool, dark places and used before the expiration date. Rancid flaxseed oil develops a bitter taste and loses its health benefits.

Flaxseed oil is considered sustainable, as flax is a hardy, low-input crop. Additionally, flax cultivation benefits soil health and produces minimal environmental impact compared to some tropical oils.

In conclusion, flaxseed oil is a deeply therapeutic, highly nutritional oil with a very specific role in modern wellness. While not a cooking oil in the traditional sense, it is one of the best raw supplements available for omega-3 enrichment, skin vitality, and inflammation reduction. When used properly and stored with care, flaxseed oil offers potent nourishment in a silky, golden drop.

Quantity is 2 bottles for 1 litre each