Flaxseed and Flaxseed Oil
Flaxseed has a history of being used as a laxative. It has also been used to lower high cholesterol.
Flaxseed and Flaxseed Oil Overview
Flaxseed is the seed of the flax plant.
Flaxseed is used most often for laxative; it is also used for hot flashes and breast pain.
Flaxseed oil is used most often for arthritis.
Both flaxseed and flaxseed oil have been used for high cholesterol levels and in an effort to prevent cancer.
A common side effect of flaxseed and flaxseed oil is diarrhea.
Flaxseed and Flaxseed Oil Cautionary Labels
Uses
Flaxseed is used most often for laxative; it is also used for hot flashes and breast pain.
Flaxseed oil is used most often for arthritis.
Both flaxseed and flaxseed oil have been used for high cholesterol levels and in an effort to prevent cancer.
Flaxseed may be used for other conditions. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Side Effects of Flaxseed and Flaxseed Oil
A common side effect of flaxseed is diarrhea.
This is not a complete list of flaxseed side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.
Flaxseed and Flaxseed Oil Interactions
Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
The fiber in flaxseed may lower the body’s ability to absorb medications that are taken by mouth. Flaxseed should not be taken at the same time as any conventional oral medications or other dietary supplements.
Flaxseed and Flaxseed Oil Precautions
Special precautions & warnings:
- Flaxseed, like any supplemental fiber source, should be taken with plenty of water; otherwise, it could worsen constipation or, in rare cases, even cause intestinal blockage.
