Flaxseeds are considered a healthy local superfood. We will show you which nutrients they contain and how you can use and process them.

What are flaxseeds?

Flaxseed is the seed of the flax, also known as common flax. It grows up to a meter high and has blue flowers. It is mainly grown in China, Russia and Ukraine. But it can also be found in Europe, for example in France, Germany and the Netherlands.

You can buy flaxseed whole, ground or as flour. We recommend that you use organic flaxseed and choose a product that comes from regional cultivation. In this way you avoid long transport routes and the associated high consumption of resources as well as chemical-synthetic pesticides in cultivation.

It’s in flaxseed

Flaxseeds contain a lot of fiber, which has a digestive effect. In addition, so-called mucilage is found in the seeds. They form a protective layer in the stomach and ensure that pathogens and other impurities can be transported more easily through the intestine.

Flaxseeds are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which should be an essential part of your diet. They have an anti-inflammatory effect, are important for the metabolism and contribute to a healthy immune system.

In addition to fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseeds contain protein, magnesium, iron and zinc as well as vitamins B1, B6 and vitamin E.

Here’s how you can use flaxseed

Linseed has been used medicinally for thousands of years, also in the form of linseed oil. The seeds are particularly popular as home remedies for gastrointestinal diseases. If you suffer from constipation or irritable bowel syndrome, you can use flaxseed as follows:

Eat 1 tablespoon of whole or ground flaxseeds.
Drink around 250 milliliters of water.
Repeat this two to three times a day.
The flaxseeds take effect after about twelve to 24 hours. Sometimes it takes up to three days for the full effect to take hold.

Linseed in the form of poultices has proven itself for colds, skin inflammation and muscle tension. To put on a flaxseed poultice:

Place 2-3 tablespoons of flaxseed on a cotton towel and tie a knot. Alternatively, you can stuff the flaxseeds into a clean cotton sock.
Pour hot water over the flaxseed poultice and let the flaxseeds soak for about 15 minutes.
Place the compress on the affected area and fix it with a dry cloth.

You should keep this in mind when using flaxseed

Since flaxseed contains cadmium, you should consume a maximum of 20 grams per day.
Flaxseed is said to limit the absorption of drugs from the gut. If you are taking medication, you should only eat flaxseed three to four hours after ingestion.
If you are currently pregnant, you should only use flaxseed after consulting a doctor.
If you eat flaxseed, it is important that you drink a lot – at least 1.5 to two liters per day, preferably water or unsweetened tea. Or you can make yourself a flaxseed tea directly.
Do not use flaxseed poultices on open wounds.
Flaxseeds are not very suitable for children.
If you have severe abdominal pain, an intestinal obstruction or a narrowed esophagus, you should not eat flaxseed. In these cases, seek medical advice and have the symptoms clarified.

Process flaxseed

However, you can not only eat flaxseed when you have symptoms, you can also use it in delicious recipes. In the following recipe, the flaxseeds provide a filling effect and a thicker consistency. For a smoothie you need:

250 g unsweetened soy yoghurt
1 tsp agave nectar or maple syrup
1 tsp flaxseed
150 grams of raspberries
2 tbsp almonds

And this is how it works: Put all the ingredients in the blender and puree them until you get a creamy smoothie.