Linum usitatissimum Flax Related species:
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Stem varieties of flax are soaked
in water to release fibres for making linen. Linseed oil from seed varieties
of flax is one of the most important commercial drying oils, used in paints,
varnishes and putty.
Oil is used medicinally as a laxative and vermifuge. The seeds, soaked overnight and strained, can be used to treat gastritis, constipation and indigestion. This can also be used in poultices for cuts, bruises and other abrasions. Flax prefers dry, well-drained soil in full sun. A tall variety is grown for flax production in cool, moist regions, and a more compact variety is grown in warm regions for seed. |