Flaxseed oil is obtained from flaxseed, which is known botanically as Linum usitatissimum. It is a colorless to yellowish liquid obtained from the dried seed of this plant. Flaxseed oil is used for many health conditions like benign hyperplasia of prostate (BPH), heart problems, dry eyes, atherosclerosis (hardening of blood vessels), attention deficit hyperactive disorder, colon and breast cancers, diabetes mellitus, and constipation. It is prudent to label it as a superfood as it benefits with many health conditions.
 

Flaxseed oil contains polyunsaturated fatty acids, mainly alpha linolenic acid, which decreases inflammation. Alpha linolenic acid is as effective in maintaining heart health as omega-3 fatty acids obtained from fish. Worldwide, polyunsaturated fatty acids are known for heart health benefits as they do not raise the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and triglyceride levels as saturated fatty acids do. Atherosclerosis or hardening of blood vessels is caused by plaque formation in the internal lining of blood vessels. This process of plaque formation is caused due to inflammation, and flaxseed is helpful in preventing it.
 

Many research studies have proven the benefits of flaxseed in cardiovascular health. One of the important benefits is that LDL levels get lowered by flaxseed oil. As it reduces atherosclerosis, it lowers the risk for stroke, too. This is because the blood flowing through the vessels supplying the brain also benefits from the lowered risk of atherosclerosis by flaxseed oil. It is mainly because of these properties that flaxseed oil also helps in managing high blood pressure and angina pectoris, commonly known as a heart attack. Flaxseed oil is endowed with antioxidant properties that protect our body against heart diseases and cancers, as it scavenges the free radicals that cause damage to our healthy cells.
 

Apart from cardiovascular health, flaxseed oil benefits in breast and colon cancers. Taking regular flaxseed oil also normalizes the sugar levels thus being beneficial in diabetes. Inflammatory disorders like arthritis, buildup of plaque in arteries, are reduced by flaxseed oil.

Flaxseed oil is available in liquid and soft capsule dosage form. Flaxseed oil contains phytoestrogens meaning plant estrogen, which is effective in managing hot flashes due to menopausal problems.
 

Generally, flaxseed oil is well tolerated but in some subjects, diarrhea is observed, if the dosages get higher. It is advised to consult your doctor before starting flaxseed oil if you are taking some anti-coagulant drugs for heart problems.