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Supplements & Nutraceuticals
Don’t Confuse Flax Seed With Linseed! Let’s Understand Their Differences and Health Perks!
Flaxseed and linseed are terms often used interchangeably, but they refer to different types of the same seed, each with unique properties, uses, and health benefits. While they are frequently used synonymously, in actuality, they can also refer to marginally distinct cultivars of Linum usitatissimum. Their intended use is what makes them different. When the seeds of the flax plant are grown and collected for human use, they are referred to as flaxseed. Flaxseed is prized for its nutritional properties, which include dietary fibre and omega-3 fatty acids.
However, linseed refers more generally to the same seeds grown for industrial uses, mainly to produce linseed oil used in paints, varnishes, and wood finishes. Despite coming from the same plant species, the two varieties' nutritional profiles and intended uses differ due to differences in processing and final usage. Understanding the difference between the two can help you make more informed choices about your food and its various uses. Read ahead to know their difference in terms of their origin, benefits, nutritional value, etc.
Table Of Contents
1. An Insight On Flax Seed And Linseed
2. What Is The Difference Between Flax And Linseed?
3. What Are The Health Benefits Of Flax Seeds And Linseeds?
4. Uses Of Flax Seed And Linseed
5. Choosing Between Flaxseed And Linseed
6. Dietitian’s Recommendation
7. The Final Say
8. FAQs
9. References
An Insight on Flax Seed and Linseed
Flaxseed is obtained from the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum), which has been grown for over 6,000 years. Flax originates from the Middle East and plays a vital role in agriculture and trade. Its fibre is used in flax production, and its seeds are used in food production. Flaxseed is grown mainly in cold climates, such as India, Canada, and China, where major producers are located.
While linseeds refer to the same seed but are used more in industry, the linseed plant is also Linum usitatissimum. However, the cultivation method and seed variety are slightly different, increasing the usage difference. The linseed variety is used to extract oil and in paints, varnishes, and other commercial products.
Also Read: Looking For Ways To Reduce Weight? Explore The Hidden Features Of Flaxseed Oil For Weight Loss!
What Is the Difference Between Flax and Linseed?
The point of difference between flax seed and linseed is:
Particulars | Flax | Flaxseed (Linseed) |
| Botanical Name | Linum usitatissimum | Linum usitatissimum |
| Common Names | Flax | Linseed |
| Plant Description | Annual herbaceous plant with blue flowers | Annual herbaceous plant with blue flowers |
| Primary Cultivation | Grown for both seeds (flaxseeds) and fibre (linen) production | Primarily cultivated for oil production and industrial uses. |
| Nutritional Profile | Rich in omega-3 fatty acids (ALA), fibre, protein, lignans | Rich in omega-3 fatty acids (ALA), fibre, protein |
| Uses | Dietary (whole seeds, ground, oil), health supplements | Industrial (linseed oil for paints, varnishes, linoleum) |
| Omega-3 Content | High in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) | High in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) |
| Fibre Content | High fibre content, beneficial for digestive health | High fibre content, beneficial for digestive health |
| Protein Content | Good source of plant-based protein | Good source of plant-based protein |
| Health Benefits | Heart health, digestive health, cancer prevention | Industrial uses, some health benefits like omega-3 |
| Culinary Uses | Whole seeds, ground (as flour substitute), oil for dressing | Whole seeds, ground (less common in culinary use), linseed oil |
| Industrial Uses | Minimal (mainly dietary and health); some cosmetic uses | Predominantly industrial (oil extraction for paints, etc.) |
| Processing Methods | Cleaning, grinding (for dietary use), cold-pressed oil | Cleaning, hot-pressed oil extraction (for industrial use) |
| Popular Products | Flaxseed oil, ground flaxseed, dietary supplements | Linseed oil, linoleum, paint varnish |
Also Read: Top 10 Potential Benefits Of Flax Seeds As A Superfood
What Are the Health Benefits of Flax Seeds and Linseeds?
The health benefits of flax seed and linseed are as follows:
1. Flax Seed
- Heart Health: Flaxseed's high ALA content can help lower inflammation, lowering the risk of heart disease.
- Digestive Health: The fibre in flaxseed supports gut health and promotes regular bowel movements.
- Cancer Prevention: Lignans in flaxseed have been a boon linked to a reduced risk of breast cancer and other hormone-related cancers.
- Weight Management: Flaxseed fibre and protein can help manage weight by enhancing feelings of fullness.
2. Linseed
While linseed is less focused on health benefits, it still offers:
- Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: To lower inflammation and support heart health, linseed is a significant source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential omega-3 fatty acid that helps.
- High in Fiber: Rich in dietary fibre, linseed facilitates regular bowel motions and improves digestion, helping maintain a healthy gut.
- Protein Source: Linseeds provide a good amount of plant-based protein, especially in vegetarian and vegan diets, which is beneficial for overall body function and muscle repair.
- Antioxidant Properties: To protect cells from oxidative stress and reduce the risk of certain cancers, linseed contains lignans, which have antioxidant properties that can help.
- Blood Sugar Regulation: Linseed fibre can help regulate blood sugar levels by slowing glucose absorption into the bloodstream.
- Weight Management: To control appetite and support weight management efforts, the combination of fibre and protein promotes satiety.
- Skin Health: Linseed oil benefits skin health when used topically. It is known for its moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties.
Also Read: Top 4 Benefits Of Flaxseed For Skin Care | ToneOpCare
Uses of Flax Seed and Linseed
The multiple uses of flax seed and linseed are as follows:
1. Flax Seed
- Culinary Uses
| Whole Seeds | For added crunch and nutrition, sprinkle whole seeds on salads, cereals, or baked goods. |
| Ground Seeds | Ground Flaxseed is easier to digest and can be added to yoghurt and smoothies or used as a flour substitute in baking. |
| Flaxseed Oil | Due to its low smoke point, it is used as a dietary supplement or salad dressing, but it is not recommended for cooking at high temperatures. |
- Health and Wellness
| Dietary Supplements | Flaxseed supplements are famous for their omega-3 content and are available in oil or capsule form. |
| Functional Foods | Incorporated into products like flaxseed-infused bread, snack bars, and crackers. |
- Cosmetic Uses
Skin Care: For its moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties, flaxseed oil is used in skincare products.
2. Linseed
- Industrial Applications
| Linseed Oil | Extracted from linseed, it is used in varnishes, paints, and as a wood finish due to its quick-drying properties. |
| Linoleum | Combined with other natural materials, it is a durable flooring material made from linseed oil. |
| Animal Feed | This is used as livestock feed, the by-product of oil extraction. |
Also Read: Looking For Ways To Reduce Weight? Explore The Hidden Features Of
Choosing Between Flaxseed and Linseed
When deciding between flaxseed and linseed, consider the following factors-
Properties | Flaxseed | Linseed |
Intended Use | Dietary | Industrial |
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Nutritional Needs | Health Benefits | General Nutrition |
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Form and Preparation | Ground vs. Whole | Oil |
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Culinary | Industrial | |
| Availability |
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Dietitian's Recommendation
Although flaxseed and linseed are obtained from the same plant, they have different uses in our food and business. Flaxseed from ToneOp Care is a powerful nutrient that benefits heart health, digestion, and cancer prevention, making it a valuable addition to any diet. You can also opt for ToneOp Care’s Flaxseed oil capsules to reap the benefits conveniently. Conversely, linseed shines in commercial applications by providing essential paint, varnish, and linoleum oil. Flaxseeds should be consumed regularly with 1-2 spoons daily to get the optimum amount of fibre and micronutrients.
Dt. Akshata Gandevikar
The Final Say
Flaxseed and linseed may seem like identical twins, but their subtle differences can be helpful to know. Regardless of the name you choose, both offer a bounty of health benefits. So, next time you're looking for a natural way to boost your gut health, add some texture to your meals, or gain a plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids, reach for either flaxseed or linseed!