Linseed oil is derived by the cold pressed method from the seeds of the flax plant. It is derived by the cold pressed method to prevent impurities from getting into the oil. The unprocessed raw it is known as flaxseed oil. It is light yellow to dark oily liquid, insoluble in water and less dense than water hence floats on water. It is a common carrier used in oil paint. It can also be used as a painting medium, making oil paints more fluid, transparent and glossy. When used as a wood finish, it dries slowly and shrinks little upon hardening. Garden furniture treated with it may develop mildew. The essential fatty acids in flaxseed oil are largely responsible for its skin-healing powers. It can lower cholesterol, thereby significantly reducing the risk of heart disease. It not only reduces inflammation in the joints, skin and kidneys, but also lowers cholesterol levels that may be elevated by the disease. It minimizes nerve damage that causes numbness and tingling as well as other disorders. It reduces cancer risk and guard against the effects of ageing. It treats menopausal symptoms, menstrual cramps, female infertility and endometriosis.
