Know what you're putting in your body.

158 herbs, nutrients, and compounds. What the science says, what tradition knew, and what to watch for. Founding members keep this running.

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HEART FUNCTION

Flaxseed

Linum usitatissimum

also known as linseed, flaxseed oil

Strong (cholesterol, fiber)

Flaxseed — Köhler 1887 botanical illustration

A small brown or golden seed pressed for oil and ground into meal. One of the richest plant sources of omega-3 fats and lignans — and one of the few seed foods with solid evidence for cholesterol and digestive health.

Lowers LDL cholesterol when ground flax is eaten daily
May modestly lower blood pressure
Rich in soluble and insoluble fiber — supports regularity
One of the highest plant sources of ALA, a plant-form omega-3 fat
Rich in lignans, plant compounds with mild estrogen-balancing effects
Supports satiety and steady blood sugar when eaten with meals

Always grind whole flaxseed before eating — whole seeds pass through undigested

Drink plenty of water with flax — the fiber can cause blockage without enough fluid

Use caution with blood thinners — flax has mild anticoagulant action

May lower blood sugar — caution with diabetes medication

Skip large medicinal doses during pregnancy due to the lignan content

Can reduce absorption of oral medications — separate doses by at least 2 hours

NCCIH — Flaxseed · MedlinePlus Herbs & Supplements · NIH NCCIH Herbs at a Glance

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