Flaxseed Oil: Nature's Laxative?

Flaxseed oil is made from ground and pressed flaxseeds. It has been traditionally used as a laxative and for wound healing. Flaxseed oil contains many active compounds that are thought to provide health benefits, such as omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, and omega-9 fatty acids. It is also a good source of soluble and insoluble fibre, which can help to relieve constipation. However, it is important to note that flaxseed oil should be consumed in moderation as it can have a laxative effect and may cause diarrhoea in some people.

Flaxseed oil can be used to treat constipation

Flaxseed oil is made from ground and pressed flaxseeds. It has traditionally been used as a laxative and for wound healing. Flaxseed oil contains several active compounds that are thought to provide health benefits, including alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid, linoleic acid (LA), an omega-6 fatty acid, oleic acid, an omega-9 fatty acid, and lignans, glycosides, and peptides.

A study of 50 patients on hemodialysis found that daily flaxseed oil supplementation relieved constipation. Another study of 90 people who added flaxseed flour to their diet showed an increased frequency of bowel movements.

To relieve constipation, it is recommended to consume 1 to 4 tablespoons of ground flaxseed per day. Flaxseed oil and whole seeds may not be as effective. It is important to drink plenty of water when consuming flaxseed.

Flaxseed is generally safe and has few reported side effects. However, consuming more than the recommended amount or drinking too little water can worsen constipation and cause an intestinal blockage.

Flaxseed oil may help treat ulcerative colitis

Flaxseed oil has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce colon inflammation caused by ulcerative colitis. In a study on rats, flaxseed oil was found to reduce colon weight, colon weight/length ratio, and colon cell damage. It also relieved the oxidative condition and partly restored the microbiota change caused by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS).

In a human study, patients with ulcerative colitis who were supplemented with flaxseed oil showed a significant reduction in inflammatory markers and an increase in IL-10 concentration. This indicates that flaxseed oil can help attenuate systemic inflammation and improve disease severity in UC patients.

However, it is important to note that there is mixed research on the effects of flaxseed oil on ulcerative colitis. Some studies suggest that flaxseed oil may not be helpful and might even worsen flare-ups in some individuals. Therefore, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before adding supplements like flaxseed oil to your diet, especially if you have a medical condition.

Flaxseed oil is not suitable for pregnant people

Flaxseed oil is not recommended for pregnant people due to potential risks to both the mother and the foetus.

Flaxseed oil is known to possess blood-thinning properties, which can increase the risk of premature birth, especially when consumed in the final two trimesters. According to a study, pregnant women who consumed flaxseed oil had about a 12% risk of premature birth compared to a 3% risk among women who didn't.

Additionally, flaxseed oil may have mild hormonal effects on the body. It contains lignans, a plant protein that acts like oestrogen. The National Center of Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) states that flaxseed might increase the risk of premature birth when taken during the second or third trimester.

Furthermore, flaxseed oil is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for the brain development of infants. However, excessive consumption can lead to an increased risk of bleeding, especially if the pregnant person is also taking blood-thinning medications.

While flaxseed oil has potential benefits, such as aiding fetal brain development, relieving constipation, and lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases, it is crucial for pregnant people to consult their doctor before consuming it due to the potential risks involved.

Flaxseed oil may help treat carpal tunnel syndrome

Flaxseed oil, also known as flax oil or linseed oil, is made from flax seeds that have been ground and pressed to release their natural oil. This oil is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential to health and have been linked to reduced inflammation, improved heart health, and protection for the brain against ageing.

A 2014 randomised clinical trial found that a topical gel made from flaxseed oil was more effective in improving the symptoms and function of patients with mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome compared to a hand splint. The study included 49 patients with 96 affected hands, and the results showed that the flaxseed oil gel provided greater recovery than the splint.

Another clinical trial published in the DARU Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences in 2014 found that flaxseed oil applied externally helped treat carpal tunnel syndrome. The study included 100 patients with 155 affected hands, and the results showed that those who applied flaxseed oil had significant improvements in pain, numbness, tingling, and mobility compared to a placebo group.

Flaxseed oil is also believed to have additional benefits for skin health and may help prevent diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases when consumed internally.

Flaxseed oil may help treat menopausal symptoms

Research on the effectiveness of flaxseed in treating menopausal symptoms has been inconclusive. Some studies have found that flaxseed can be as effective as hormone replacement therapy in reducing mild menopausal symptoms and improving quality of life. For example, a 2002 study published in Obstetrics and Gynaecology found that supplementing with 40 grams of ground flaxseed was effective in raising oestrogen levels and improving mild menopausal symptoms. A 2013 study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that plant lignans, present in flaxseeds, reduced the frequency of hot flushes in postmenopausal women. A 2015 investigation also found that a diet heavy in phytoestrogens, like flaxseed, reduced complaints of hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and other menopausal symptoms in the phytoestrogen group.

However, other studies have found no significant difference between women taking flaxseed and those taking a placebo. For example, a 2005 randomised controlled study found that postmenopausal women given 40 grams of flaxseed for 12 months experienced no difference in the decrease of hot flushes and night sweats compared to a control group given wheat seed. A 2010 investigation also found no difference between the experimental and control groups when analysing the effects of supplementing with 25 grams of flaxseed daily for 12 weeks on common menopausal symptoms.

Flaxseed oil is made from pressed, dried flaxseeds and shares some, but not all, of flaxseed's health properties. It is important to note that whole flaxseeds are hard for the body to digest, so grinding flaxseed before use can help to get the full benefits of its nutrients. Additionally, flaxseed oil should not be used for cooking due to its low smoke point.

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