The benefits of flaxseed oil
Flaxseed oil, what is it?
It is obtained by pressing the seeds of Linum usitatissimum, or “cultivated flax”. Like the soy or the 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 called “oil of flax seeds“.
It is characterized by a beautiful golden-yellow color, a cereal-like scent and a slightly bitter taste. It is both a culinary and cosmetic oil. In cooking, it is used to dress cold dishes.
It is also suitable for facial, body and hair care. Finally, it can be taken in capsules as a dietary supplement.
The benefits of flax seeds
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 that even gave it its name. Thus, it partly meets the daily requirements for essential fatty acids.
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This balanced ratio also gives it benefits for the heart. As shown by this study, it contributes to cardiovascular health.
Finally, it is credited with anti-inflammatory properties, anti-cancer effects 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 a certified organic oil. The seeds used come from flax grown in organic farming. This guarantees an oil free from pesticide residues or chemical products.
Also choose a 100 % virgin oil, pure, non-GMO, without additives or preservatives.
Other quality criteria
Choose a vegetable oil obtained from a first cold pressing. Cold extraction, performed at less than 27°C, preserves the active compounds and properties of the flax seeds. Thus, it guarantees a nutritious, very high-quality oil.
France produces about 50,000 tons of seeds each year. If you can, buy an oil made from flax of French origin and grown locally.
How to use flaxseed oil?
In the kitchen
Excellent edible oil, it is ideal for seasoning cold dishes and preparations without cooking : salads, tabbouleh, sauces, vinaigrettes, gazpachos…
Indeed, it cannot tolerate heat at all. Its nutty flavor pairs well with cheeses and desserts like carrot cake.
Warning: this oil is fragile and prone to oxidation. It goes rancid quickly, loses its nutritional qualities and becomes unfit for consumption. It is therefore necessary to store it in the refrigerator and consume it quickly (within 6 months).
As a dietary supplement
Flaxseed oil can be consumed as a dietary supplement, in capsule form. It is a good alternative to fish oils for supplementing with omega-3s.
This format offers easy-to-take doses and has the advantage of not conveying the bitter taste of flaxseed oil. In addition, 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 suppleness of the skin. It is an excellent anti-aging oil and anti-wrinkle.
Moreover, it nourishes, strengthens the skin barrier, promotes healing and the regeneration of cells. It is ideal for mature, dry, sensitive, or damaged skin.
This oil is applied by massage, directly on the skin of the face and/or body. It is used alone or in combination with other vegetable oils: wheat germ, hazelnut, chia…
Its fluid texture penetrates quickly. Thanks to its dry feel, it does not leave an oily film.
For hair care
Rich in fatty acids, it deeply nourishes and protects against external aggressions. In addition, it strengthens the hair fiber to restore vitality to dull, damaged and fine hair.
Finally, it defines the curls of curly or frizzy hair. It is well suited to dry scalps, irritated or prone to dandruff.
You can use it as a hair mask or as an oil bath. Apply it directly to dry hair, focusing on the ends and lengths. Complement its action with another plant oil suitable for your hair type: grapeseed, castor, argan…
