What is flax used for?

Flax is not just a funny sounding word. It’s also an incredibly versatile plant with a wide range of uses. Whether you’re looking to improve your health, fashion some new clothes, or even make paper, flax has got you covered.

So sit back, grab a flaxtini (not a real thing) and let’s take a deep dive into all the ways we can use this incredible little seed.

The Basics: What Is Flax?

First things first – what exactly is flax? Well, it’s actually both a plant and the seeds that come from that plant. Underneath its pretty blue flowers lies fibrous stalks that yield long fibers used in textiles, as well as small brownish-yellow seeds packed full of nutrition.

Nutritional Benefits

Let’s start by talking about how amazing these tiny seeds are for our bodies:

Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Flaxseed oil contains high levels of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), partant forms of omega-3 fatty acids that help improve heart health and prevent chronic diseases like cancer.

Fiber Powerhouse

It may be small but don’t underestimate its power! These fiber-packed (soluble and insoluble) super-seeds keep us feeling satisfied longer while stabilizing blood sugar levels too. That digestion system will appreciate every bit!

Good Protein Source

Protein lovers rejoice! Not only does ground flax serve up serious nutritional punch when sprinkled over yogurt or thrown into smoothies—two tablespoons boast 4 grams— but it’s full of amino acids too so think twice before splurging on supplements (plus they’re much more delicious).

Versatile Use In Foods

You’d be hard pressed to find something you couldn’t add some flaxy goodness to – blend them up, grind them, toss them in muffins or oatmeal, add to smoothies, soup or salad toppings. Talk about a ‘food & mood’ booster!

Textile Industry

Flax has been used for centuries in textile production:

Linen – A Fabric of the Gods!

Linen is often considered one of the most luxurious and high-end fabrics out there—and it’s made entirely from flax fibers. It’s great during hot summer months because.. well who wouldn’t want to dress up like Pharaoh while keeping cool?

Flax Fibers Used for Upholstery

Used extensively by furniture designers due its durability and low maintenance compared to cotton (take that cotton!!), flax fibers create upholstery with a unique aesthetic that only gets better with age.

Clothing Production

Clothing items made from flax fiber are not only trendy but both hypoallergenic and comfortable against the skin too. Plus cooler than Polyester (remember when everyone was wearing polyester suits back in the day? That was rough)

Non-Food Products Made From Flax Seeds

If you think these magic little seeds were just destined for breakfast – get ready! Here are some products they’re included in beyond dietary consumption:

Cosmetics And Skin Care Sector Is Taking Notice!

The beauty industry has discovered longevity-enhancing properties within many plant-based ingredients sources like flaxseed oil; which can help repair damaged hair, regenerate cells leaving patients feeling their best selves.

Paper Productions Use The Seed Oils

Who would have thought—the oils found within seed surfaces combine into renewable resources as ingredient options within paper production methods (this beats those fossil fuels any day right??).

So now we know where linen comes from (LOVE) AND all types of goodies available via incorporating FLAXSEED products into our daily routine – and we must admit it sounds pretty darn impressive.So the next time any smart aleck tries to tell you that flax is just for hippies or health nuts (like who honestly doesn’t care about their well-being) –you can let them know how soft and supple your skin feels while munching on a delicious flaxy treat.

Cheers to that!

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