The benefits of flaxseed oil
What is flaxseed oil?
It is obtained by pressing the seeds of Linum usitatissimum or “cultivated flax.” Like soy or nigella, this plant produces oilseeds, which are very rich in oil.
Harvested at maturity, they are pressed to extract a vegetable oil: flaxseed oil, also known as “linseed oil.”
It is characterized by a beautiful golden yellow color, a cereal-like smell, and a slightly bitter taste. It is an oil that is both nutritional and cosmetic. In cooking, it is used for seasoning cold dishes.
It is also recommended for facial, body, and hair care. Finally, it can be taken in capsule form as a dietary supplement.
The virtues of flaxseeds
These seeds are composed of about 40% fatty acids (omega-3-6-9). They also contain vitamin E and a wide variety of B-group vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and B9). Not to mention the minerals and trace elements: calcium, copper, iron, magnesium…
Finally, they are a source of plant proteins, amino acids, and fiber.
Flaxseed oil has a very good omega-3/omega-6 balance. It is particularly rich in alpha-linolenic acid (56 g per 100 ml), an omega-3 which even lent its name to it. Thus, it partially meets the daily requirements for essential fatty acids.
Read also | Everything you need to know to properly choose your omega-3s
This balanced ratio also bestows heart benefits. As shown in this study, it contributes to cardiovascular health.
Finally, it is recognized for its anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer virtues, and a positive effect on the nervous system and emotional balance.
How to choose your flaxseed oil?
Opt for an organic certified oil
We recommend choosing an organic certified oil. The seeds used come from flax grown with organic farming. This ensures an oil free from pesticide or chemical residues.
Also go for 100% virgin oil, pure, non-GMO, without additives or preservatives.
Other quality criteria
Choose a vegetable oil from a first cold press. Cold extraction, performed below 27°C, preserves the active ingredients and properties of flaxseeds. Thus, it guarantees a nutritious and high-quality oil.
France produces about 50,000 tons of seeds each year. If you can, buy an oil obtained from locally grown French flax.
How to use flaxseed oil?
In cooking
An excellent dietary oil, it is ideal for seasoning cold dishes and no-cook preparations: salads, tabbouleh, sauces, dressings, gazpachos…
Indeed, it cannot withstand heat. Its nutty flavor goes well with cheeses and desserts like carrot cake.
Warning: this oil is fragile and susceptible to oxidation. It quickly becomes rancid, loses its nutritional qualities, and becomes unfit for consumption. Therefore, it should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed quickly (within 6 months).
As a dietary supplement
Flaxseed oil can be consumed as a dietary supplement, in capsule form. It serves as a good alternative to fish oils for omega-3 supplementation.
This format offers easy intake and has the advantage of not conveying the bitter taste of flaxseed oil. Furthermore, encapsulation protects the oil from oxidation.
For skin care
Rich in vitamin E, it protects against free radicals that accelerate aging. It has a restorative effect, supports the elasticity and plasticity of the skin. It’s an excellent anti-aging and anti-wrinkle oil.
Moreover, it nourishes, strengthens the skin barrier, promotes healing and cell regeneration. It is ideal for mature, dry, sensitive, or damaged skin.
This oil is applied by massage, directly onto the skin of the face and/or body. It can be used alone or in combination with other vegetable oils: wheat germ, hazelnut, chia…
Its fluid texture penetrates quickly. With its dry feel, it doesn’t leave a greasy film.
For hair care
Rich in fatty acids, it deeply nourishes and protects against external aggressions. Furthermore, it coats the hair fiber to revitalize dull, damaged, and fine hair.
Finally, it defines the curls of curly or frizzy hair. It is very suitable for dry scalps, irritated or prone to dandruff.
You can use it as a hair mask or oil bath. Apply it directly on dry hair, focusing on the ends and lengths. Complement its action with another vegetable oil suitable for your hair type: grape seed, castor, argan…
