Flax

Lein · (Linum usitatissimum)

Flax family (Linaceae)

Description

Flax (Linum usitatissimum) is an annual crop with a slender, erect stem and narrow, lance-shaped leaves, cultivated for millennia for fibre and seed. Its delicate five-petalled flowers are typically sky-blue and give rise to rounded capsules holding the glossy, flat-oval, brown to golden seeds. The medicinal part is the ripe, dried seed (Lini semen), rich in mucilage, fixed oil and dietary fibre.

RawSeedInternalEMA well-established
Herbal bulk laxative for habitual constipation — clinically well documented.
Preparation & dosage
BULK LAXATIVE (constipation): 10–15 g of whole or bruised seeds per single dose, two to three times daily, each taken with at least 150 ml water, milk or juice, maintaining ample fluid intake through the day. Onset after 12–24 hours, full effect sometimes only after 2–3 days. IMPORTANT: never take without sufficient fluid (risk of choking and intestinal obstruction) and not immediately before bedtime. Keep at least ½ to 1 hour between this and other medicines (the mucilage can delay their absorption). If constipation does not resolve within 3 days, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Dry amount
10–15 g
Doses per day
3×
⚠ Age restriction: ≥ 12 years — Not for children under 12 due to lack of data.
[#src_ema_lini_semen]
RawSeedInternalTraditional use
Soothing linseed gel for mild gastrointestinal discomfort (traditional).
Preparation & dosage
DEMULCENT PREPARATION (mild gastrointestinal discomfort): Soak 5–10 g of whole or broken seeds in 250 ml water, take up to three times daily about half an hour before eating; swelling must be complete at the time of consumption. A soothing (demulcent) home remedy. If symptoms persist for more than 1 week, seek medical advice.
Dry amount
5–10 g
Doses per day
3×
⚠ Age restriction: ≥ 12 years — Not for children under 12 due to lack of data.
[#src_ema_lini_semen]

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In your garden, this plant acts as:

Pollinator Magnet Medicinal