Flaxseed has been used as a natural remedy for many years. It's no wonder, as flaxseeds are helpful for gastrointestinal problems, upper respiratory tract infections, and vitamin B12 deficiency. They're also a source of omega-3 fatty acids, lecithin, magnesium, calcium, and zinc. Besides its health-promoting properties, flaxseed also has phenomenal skincare benefits, and that's what we'll focus on today.
One hundred grams of linseed contains: 42 g of fat, including 29 g of polyunsaturated fatty acids, 7.5 g of monounsaturated fatty acids; 27 g of fiber; 18 g of protein with a very beneficial set of amino acids; 1.6 mg of vitamin B1 (126% of the recommended daily intake); 0.473 mg of vitamin B6 (36% of the recommended daily intake); 392 mg of magnesium (106% of the recommended daily intake); 255 mg of calcium; 5.73 mg of iron (46% of the recommended daily intake); 4.34 mg of zinc (43% of the recommended daily intake).
It's worth noting that it's best to buy flaxseed in whole kernels and grind it as you go. Avoid factory-ground flaxseed, as it loses its nutritional value more quickly. Whole flaxseeds can be easily stored in a closed container at room temperature. Grinding doesn't require any special tools. The cheapest coffee grinder will suffice. It's useful for everyday use, as it's best to avoid whole flaxseeds in your diet (they can cause intestinal blockage).
Flax seeds are incredibly versatile, so it's worth incorporating them into your beauty regimen. They improve hair condition, moisturize skin, and strengthen nails. You can make a jelly with the whole seeds, and sprinkle the fine powder into salads, granola, yogurt, or smoothies. But that's not all. Flax seeds are fantastic as a hair mask, a styling gel, a facial scrub combined with a mask, or a jelly that nourishes the nail plate and cuticles.
Linseed in hair care
By regularly consuming flaxseed, you might be surprised by the speed of hair growth. The effects are often noticeable, but consistency and time are key. It's also important to remember not to overdo it, as more isn't necessarily better. :) Two tablespoons of ground flaxseeds a day is perfectly sufficient. Contrary to popular belief, flaxseed is quite high in calories (9g = 46 kcal).
But that's not all! The seeds can be used to make a brilliant hair mask or styling gel. Simply pour two tablespoons of flaxseed into a glass of water and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring regularly, until a thick gel forms. Then, strain the mixture immediately. The colder the mixture, the more difficult it will be to prepare. You can also prepare a larger amount at once and refrigerate it. The gel will retain its properties for several days. Application, however, is incredibly simple. Apply our natural cosmetic to freshly washed, damp hair and scalp. Put on a shower cap and a towel and wait about 30 minutes. After the time has elapsed, rinse the gel off and apply nothing else. The result is strands moisturized from root to tip, perfectly defined, full of volume, full of body, manageable, and shiny, as if after a salon visit.
This product can also be an ideal styling product for curly hair. Simply rub a small amount into the strands and knead them, just like with standard styling mousse. The gel will make the curl last longer, prevent frizz, and prevent strands from sticking together.
Linseed in facial care
Never throw away the seeds after straining. Whether blended or not, with a touch of honey or oil, they're a moisturizing powerhouse for your face. Flaxseed brilliantly nourishes, softens, and tightens the skin, soothing redness and inflammation. It also effectively tightens pores. Leave the mixture on for about fifteen minutes, then rinse with water. The effects are visible to the naked eye after just one use.
Linseed in body care
We can prepare a nourishing bath using flaxseed. Pour 5 cups of water over 4 tablespoons of flaxseed and simmer until a gel forms. After straining, pour it into a bathtub filled with water. You can also add a dash of your favorite essential oil. After such a bath, skin is soft, smooth, and moisturized.
Linseed in nail care
The gel is also great for regenerating nails. Just soak them in it for fifteen minutes. If you use it regularly, you'll quickly notice that your nails are stronger, harder, and have an even tone. You might even need to file your nails more often. The gel will also benefit your cuticles, making them moisturized, soft, and less prone to peeling.
In short, flaxseed is a true nutritional powerhouse. Its versatile properties help maintain our health and beauty. It's worth having these precious seeds always on hand and taking advantage of their power every day.
Agata Bielecka / AGU – She was supposed to be a teacher, but she became a blogger. She owns a blog available at www.agatabielecka.pl . Known online as Agu, she's passionate about cosmetics and everything related to beauty and self-care. She's obsessed with brushes, eyeshadow, and red lips. In her private life, she's a cat lover, a fan of photography, Scandinavian crime novels, austere interiors, good food, and coffee.
