Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) Brand Name– Numoisyn
What is Flaxseed
Flaxseed Linum usitatissimum, is an annual plant cultivated in temperate and tropical regions worldwide traditionally used as a bulk laxative. Various species of the plant exist and all are equally useable for the medical purposes listed.
The parts of the plant used include the stem (as a sterile linen thread), the oil extracted from the seeds, the dry ripe seeds, the linseed cakes, and the fresh flowering plant.
Flaxseed oil is the richest plant source of fatty acids (30—45%) with the chief fatty acids being alpha-linolenic acid (40—70%), linoleic acid (10—25%), and oleic acid (13—30%).
Flaxseed contains high concentrations of the lignan precursor secoisolariciresinol-diglycoside and about 25% protein; it also contains soluble and insoluble fiber.
Flaxseed is used orally for chronic constipation, colon damage due to laxative abuse, diverticulitis, enteritis, gastritis, irritable colon, and hypercholesterolemia. Topical flaxseed preparations are used as poultices for burns, scalds, and other types of skin irritation.
Germany’s Commission E has approved flaxseed as a bulk laxative and as a topical poultice. In the US, flaxseed is regulated as an herbal dietary supplement and is not FDA-approved for any use.
One product, Numoisyn liquid, contains sorbitol mixed with flaxseed (linseed) extract and it is formulated for the relief of chronic and temporary xerostomia (dry mouth).
Flaxseed dietary supplements must not be confused with Denatured flaxseed or linseed oil is a component of paints and varnishes and is toxic to humans.
Indications
- burns
- constipation
- diverticulitis
- enterocolitis
- gastritis
- hypercholesterolemia
- xerostomia
For chronic constipation, colon damage due to laxative abuse, diverticulitis, enterocolitis, irritable colon
Side Effects
- anaphylactoid reactions
- chest pain (unspecified)
- dyspnea
- GI obstruction
- headache
- hypokalemia
- ileus
- pruritus
- rash
- urticaria
Monitoring Parameters
- laboratory monitoring not necessary
Contraindications
- abdominal pain
- accidental exposure
- acute abdomen
- breast-feeding
- dysphagia
- esophageal stricture
- GI obstruction
- ileus
- obesity
- pregnancy
Interactions
- Digoxin
- Warfarin
