Flax
Plant Whisper
The common flax plant (Linum usitatissimum) is believed to have first been cultivated around 10,000 years ago in the Fertile Crescent of the Middle East and is considered one of the oldest cultivated plants. Linen, the fabric of which is woven from combed flax fibers, is often painted with oil paint, frequently a mixture of linseed oil and pigments. Flaxseeds and linseed oil are valued for their omega-3 fatty acids and are often eaten with quark, nuts, and honey. If flaxseeds are soaked in water for a while, a gel-like layer forms, which helps prevent constipation. Important: Due to the hydrocyanic acid they contain, flaxseeds should never be consumed in large quantities or without water.
Botanical Facts
Consistent moisture, no waterlogging and no extreme dryness
mostly annual, only conditionally frost-hardy
Winter rainfall region, north of the Syrian Desert also called the Fertile Crescent
June-July
sunny locations
loose, fine-crumbly, easily penetrated by roots, cultivated only for agricultural purposes
Healing Properties
Health food, constipation
Features
50 cm - 150 cm (oil flax varieties 50 cm, fiber flax varieties 150 cm)
Seeds and, in many varieties, also the petals
Only cultivated, and therefore irrelevant.
🍽 (edible), 🔧 (fiber plant, oil plant)
🌿 (herb), 🎑🌽 (seed)
Flax can be confused with other flax species. Since flax species tend to hybridize (mix with each other), definitive identification can often be difficult. However, other flax species often have similar medicinal properties.
Endangerment Level
–
All information about herbs has been carefully compiled but does not claim to be complete. None of the information provided constitutes medical advice.
GOLDEN RULE for EVERYTHING: Eat only what you know! The rule applies: a handful of wild plants per person and day may be collected on public land. Use only washed plant parts that you can identify clearly – when in doubt, please refrain from using them.
TIP: One advantage of buying over-the-counter medicines from a pharmacy or specialist retailer is the expert advice on your symptoms.
