Flax

Flax (also known as Linum usitatissimum) is a member of the genus Linum in the family Linaceae. It is a food and fiber crop that is grown in cooler regions of the world. The textiles made from flax are known as linen, and traditionally used for bed sheets, underclothes, and table linen. The oil is known as linseed oil. In addition to referring to the plant itself, the word "flax" may refer to the unspun fibers of the flax plant.

History

Flax was first domesticated in the Fertile Crescent region. Evidence exists of a domesticated oilseed flax with increased seed size by 9,000 years ago from Tell Ramad in Syria. Use of the crop steadily spread, reaching as far as Switzerland and Germany by 5,000 years ago.

Cultivation

Flax is grown for its seeds, which can be ground into a meal or turned into linseed oil, a product used as a nutritional supplement and as an ingredient in many wood-finishing products. Flax is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens. Moreover, flax fibers are used to make linen. The specific epithet, usitatissimum, means "most useful".

Health Benefits

Flax seeds contain high levels of dietary fiber as well as lignans, an abundance of micro-nutrients and omega-3 fatty acids. Studies have shown that flax seeds may lower cholesterol levels.

See Also

• Linseed oil
• Linen
• Dietary fiber
• Omega-3 fatty acids

References

Flax Resources
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