or Linseed
Flax, or Linseed, has simply got to be one of the single most versatile members of the herb world. Offering its benefits to textiles, the arts, medicinal and culinary worlds alike, there is no part of this herb that can't - or hasn't - been used to its fullest benefit. Or rather, to our fullest benefit!
Folk or Common Names Flax, Linseed
Parts Used Any and all, depending on usage.
Historical Reference
In Teutonic mythology, Flax was said to be under the protection of Hulda, Goddess of Weaving.
In the Middle Ages, Flax flowers were carried as a protection from magic and sorcery.
Folklore tells that a child who dances among the flax at the age of seven would acquire great beauty. Also, that putting some flax in the shoe will ward off poverty.
Flax has left archeological evidence of its use from times long before written records could attest to the role it played in ancient cultures. The Swiss Lake Dwellers (the earliest evidenced European culture) used the fibers in weaving, as did the ancient Egyptians, who used the seed as well and even decorated tombs with tributes to the herb itself.
The Bible indicates that Flax fiber was that used in clothing the characters, and Christ was written to have worn linen in his tomb.
The Greek culture was no different. Homer mentions sails made of Flax linen in the Odyssey. There are other references to the use of Flax as a wick for lamps in this period, as well.
In ancient Rome, we find Pliny has written, "What department is there to be found of active life in which flax is not employed?", and we would be hard pressed to find one from that time period even to this.
Across Europe and into the Americas, we find Flax used as the main source of fabric for clothing for at least a two hundred year time span.
Today, most of the production of Flax goes into the creation of Linseed Oils, and the previously valued fibers are primarily used in the production of paper. While its commercial value may be on the slightest of decline (primarily due to new innovations in the paint industry), the importance of Flax as a medicinal and nutritional herb maintains its value.
Medicinal Uses
Cautions: While there is noted success in treating inflammatory diseases and related problems with Flax/Linseed Oil, ONLY use Flax under the guidance of a professional Homeopathic Practitioner or Herbalist, and always check with your doctor first. Avoid if you have bowel obstructions or inflammation or narrowing of the stomach or digestive tract. Immature Flax seed are poisonous, and it is possible to overdose on mature seeds as well. Symptoms of overdose can include increased respiratory rate, gasping, staggering, weakness, paralysis and convulsion.
