Linseed
Oil is rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential fatty acid that
appears to be beneficial for heart disease. ALA belongs to a group of
substances called omega-3 fatty acids.
Linseed
Oil can lower cholesterol, thereby significantly reducing the risk of
heart disease. Taking linseed oil may also protect against angina (chest
pain) and high blood pressure.
In
cases of lupus, linseed oil not only reduces inflammation in the
joints, skin and kidneys, but also lowers cholesterol levels that may be
elevated by the disease. Taking linseed oil for gout may lessen the
often sudden and severe joint pain or swelling that is a symptom of this
condition. In addition, the ability of omega-3 fatty acids to boost the
absorption of iodine.
The
essential fatty acids in linseed oil are largely responsible for its
skin-healing powers. Red, itchy patches of eczema, psoriasis and rosacea
often respond to the EFA's anti-inflammatory actions and overall
skin-soothing properties. Sunburned skin may heal faster when treated
with the oil as well. In cases of acne, the EFAs encourage thinning of
the oily sebum that clogs pores.
The
abundant omega-3 fatty acids in linseed oil have been shown to
contribute to healthy hair growth (in fact, low levels of these acids
may cause dry and lackluster locks). Hair problems exacerbated by
psoriasis or eczema of the scalp may respond to the skin-revitalizing
and anti-inflammatory actions of linseed oil as well. Similarly, the
oil's EFAs work to nourish dry or brittle nails, stopping them from
cracking or splitting.
The
EFAs in linseed oil assist in the transmission of nerve impulses,
making the oil potentially valuable in treating conditions of numbness
and tingling.
Because
the hormone-balancing lignans and plant estrogens (phytoestrogens) in
linseed help stabilise a woman's estrogen-progesterone ratio, they can
have beneficial effects on the menstrual cycle, and relieve the hot
flashes of perimenopause and menopause. linseed may also improve uterine
function and thus treat fertility problems. The EFAs in linseed oil may
help to prevent swelling and inflammation of the prostate, the small
gland located below the bladder in males that tends to enlarge with age.