Flaxseed and flaxseed oil (Linum usitatissimum)

Mayo Clinic Health Manager

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Dosing

The below doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The below doses may not apply to all products. You should read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.

Adults (over 18 years old)

Flaxseed oil is available in liquid and capsule form, flaxseed powder, flour, and soluble fiber. 10 to 250 grams have been taken by mouth.

Whole or bruised (not ground) flaxseed can be mixed with liquid and taken by mouth. Generally, 1 tablespoon in this form is mixed with 6 to 12 ounces of liquid and taken by mouth up to three times a day. Some studies use doses of soluble flaxseed mucilage/fiber as high as 60 to 80 grams per kilogram (1 kilogram equals 2.2 pounds) of the person's weight. These liquid forms of flaxseed should not be confused with preparations of flaxseed oil.

Anecdotally, 30-100 grams of flaxseed flour can be mixed with warm or hot water to form a moist compress and applied to the skin up to three times a day. It is not clear how long a flaxseed poultice should be used.

Children (under 18 years old)

Not enough information is available to advise use of flaxseed or flaxseed oil in children.

NS_patient-flaxseed

Portions of this document last updated:

Sept. 1, 2009

THIS EVIDENCE-BASED MONOGRAPH WAS PREPARED BY
THE NATURAL STANDARD RESEARCH COLLABORATION
(www.naturalstandard.com)


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