Synonyms/Common Names/Related Substances:

• Alashi, alpha-linolenic acid, Barlean's Flax Oil, Barlean's Vita-Flax, brazen, common flax, DHA, docosahexaenoic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, EPA, Flachssamen (German), flax, gamma-linolenic acid, graine de lin (French), hu-ma-esze (Chinese), keten (Turkish), Leinsamen (German), Linaceae, linen flax, Lini semen, lino (Spanish, Italian), lino usuale (Italian), linseed, linseed oil, lint bells, linum, Linum catharticum, Linum humile seeds, omega-3 fatty acid, phytoestrogen, prebiotic bread, sufulsi, tesi-mosina, Type I Flaxseed/Flaxseed (51-55% alpha-linolenic acid), Type II Flaxseed/CDC-flaxseed (2-3% alpha-linolenic acid), Winterlien (German).

Clinical Bottom Line/Effectiveness

Brief Background:

• Flaxseed and its derivative flaxseed oil (or linseed oil) are rich sources of the essential fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is a biologic precursor to omega-3 fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic acid. Although omega-3 fatty acids have been associated with improved cardiovascular outcomes, evidence from human trials is mixed regarding the efficacy of flaxseed products for coronary artery disease or hyperlipidemia.
• The lignan constituents of flaxseed (not flaxseed oil) possess in vitro antioxidant and possible estrogen receptor agonist or antagonist properties, prompting theories about their efficacy for the treatment of breast cancer. However, there is not sufficient human evidence to make a strong conclusion. As a source of fiber mucilage, oral flaxseed (not flaxseed oil) possesses laxative properties. In large doses, or when taken with inadequate water, flaxseed may precipitate bowel obstruction via a mass effect. The effects of flaxseed on blood glucose levels are not clear, although hyperglycemic effects have been reported with omega-3 fatty acids in general.
• Flaxseed oil contains only the ALA component of flaxseed and not the fiber or lignan components. Therefore, flaxseed oil may share the purported lipid-lowering properties of flaxseed but not the proposed laxative or anticancer abilities.

Dosing/Toxicology

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Precautions/Contraindications

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Interactions

Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.

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Mechanism of Action

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History

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Evidence Table

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Evidence Discussion

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Products Studied

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Author Information

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References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

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