Flaxseed Oil (Linum Usitatissimum)

Flaxseed is the seed from the plant Linum usitatissimum. Oil from the seed is used to make medicine. People try flaxseed oil for many different conditions especially, high cholesterol, heart disease and constipation. Flaxseed oil is also applied to the skin to soothe irritations or soften roughness and used as dietary supplements.

Flaxseed Oil contains Alpha Linolenic Acid (ALA) which contributes to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels. By increasing HDL level Flaxseed Oil helps to reduce hyperlipidemia. Moreover ALA helps to reduce inflammation.

• Hyperlipidemia: Used for treatment of high cholesterol and triglycerides.
• Constipation: Used for relief of constipation.
• Heart Disease Prevention: Used to support cardiovascular health.

Herbal and Nutraceuticals, Prostaglandin analogues

Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplement

Flaxseed Oil contains Alpha Linolenic Acid (ALA) which contributes to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels. By increasing HDL level Flaxseed Oil helps to reduce hyperlipidemia. Moreover ALA helps to reduce inflammation. Flaxseed Oil reduces cholesterol levels by increasing prostaglandins E1 and E3 (PGE1 and PGE3), which inhibit cholesterol synthesis and stimulate cholesterol movement across cell membranes.

Flaxseed Oil increases prostaglandins E1 and E3 to inhibit cholesterol synthesis and acts as a lubricant in the bowel to relieve constipation.

Adult Dose:

• One softgel capsule two to three times daily, with a meal.
• For easier swallowing, take with water before and during ingestion.

Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor; it is better to take with meals.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible; however, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose.

Side Effects: Adverse effects are rare at recommended dosages; overdose may cause loose stool and abdominal pain.

Precautions:

• Caution when combined with blood thinning medication (Warfarin, Coumadin) - risk of bleeding.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Contraindications: No known contraindications (caution with blood thinning medications).

Drug Interactions:

• Blood thinning medication (Warfarin, Coumadin): May increase risk of bleeding; caution required.

Food Interactions: Better to take with meals; caution with alcohol.

Use in Pregnancy: Flaxseed oil might increase the chance of premature birth when taken during the second or third trimesters; caution required.

Use in Lactation: Sufficient data not available for use during lactation; consult your doctor.

Pediatric Use: Flaxseed is possibly safe for children in short-term.

Geriatric Use: No specific dosage adjustment is necessary for elderly patients.

Renal Impairment: Safe for patients with kidney disease.

Hepatic Impairment: Safe for patients with liver disease.

Overdose: Overdose may cause loose stool and abdominal pain; symptomatic treatment.

Storage: Store below 30 degree C, protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Flaxseed Oil (Linum Usitatissimum)