Grown in cooler regions the world over, flax, also known as linseed, is an upright food and fiber plant growing to 4 feet tall. Its flowers are pale blue, and its fruit, a round, dry capsule, contains several small, brown seeds. Its Latin name, Linum usitatissimum, means “most useful”. It is packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
WHERE IT CAN BE FOUND:
Eastern Mediterranean; Western Asia; the Middle East; Mexico; Central America; the entire US, except Nevada, Alaska, Hawaii, and New Mexico; all of Canada, except Yukon, Newfoundland,
and Nunavut
PROPERTIES AND USE:
Astringent, hypotensive, nervine. Used to treat burns, cancer, constipation, poor vision, dry eyes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ulcers, gastritis, heart disease, poor digestion, ADHD, obesity, dry skin, vaginal infections, benign prostatic hyperplasia, menopausal symptoms, high cholesterol, poor kidney function. It is said to prevent breast and prostate cancer.
TRADITIONAL PREPARATION:
For dry skin, take 1 teaspoon flaxseed oil before breakfast. You may also rub it directly onto
the skin. For high cholesterol, consume 40
to 50 grams of flaxseed per day. Baked goods containing ground flaxseed are a good way to meet this requirement. For kidney issues or lupus, consume 15 grams of ground flaxseed twice daily. Cereal is a good way to consume this amount. For menopausal symptoms, consume 40 grams of crushed flaxseed per day.
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FLAXSEED-HERB DRESSING
Makes 1/2 cup
Want an easy and delicious way to add flaxseed to your diet? Try this simple dressing, which
is great on salad greens, or on grilled or steamed vegetables.
INGREDIENTS:
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon chopped chives
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
2 tablespoons chopped basil
2 tablespoons chopped oregano 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
1 large garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon minced shallots
1/2 teaspoon flax seeds Pinch of cayenne pepper Pinch of sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper 3 tablespoons flaxseed oil
INSTRUCTIONS:
• Combine all ingredients except the flaxseed oil until well mixed.
• Adjust seasoning as necessary, once the oil is added, the dressing will be emulsified and difficult to adjust.
• Add the oil in a slow, steady stream, whisking constantly.
