Origin Of Flax Seeds A Little History

 

Origin of flax seeds

 

A little history 

Flax seeds (Linum usitatissimum) have an ancient and rich history, dating back at least 5,000 years. They are native to the Near East and the Mediterranean region, where they were cultivated for their seeds and fibre.

The ancient Egyptians used these seeds to make oils and waxes, as well as to prepare medicines. They also considered them a symbol of purity and used them in religious rituals. Flaxseeds were also popular among the Greeks and Romans. They used them to make oil, textiles and medicines.

During the Middle Ages, these seeds were cultivated throughout Europe. They were used to make ropes, textiles and papers. In the 18th century, European linen production intensified, particularly in France, Germany and Belgium.

Over the following centuries, flaxseeds spread to other parts of the world, such as North America and Asia. 

Today, flax seeds are grown in many countries worldwide, particularly in Europe, Asia and North America.

Cultivation of flax seeds

Growing flax seeds is a relatively simple process that requires a certain amount of rigor. They are grown for their edible seeds and fiber. It needs fertile, well-drained, sunny soil to thrive.

Flaxseeds can be sown directly into the ground in early spring. Or by seedlings in pots indoors for several weeks before transplanting them into the ground. 

(Can I grow flax seeds) Once flax plants are established, they only need a little maintenance. They must be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Weeds must be removed regularly to avoid smothering them. Feel free to mulch your soil in the middle of summer if it's too hot. This will help maintain some humidity. (grow your own flax seeds)

Seed harvesting is done in summer when the seeds are ripe and have split. Seeds can be picked by hand if you have a small garden.

Flax stalks can produce fibers, which can be made into textiles and industrial products. You can also dry them and use them to make mulch. So, nothing is lost; everything is recycled.

The different types of linen

 

There are two primary varieties of flax: fibrous flax and edible flax.

Fibrous flax is used to produce fibers that can be made into textiles. Clothes, sheets and towels. Linen fibers are solid and durable and can resist wear and fading. Fibrous flax plants have thicker and taller stems than edible flax. Flaxseeds can be eaten as is, ground into a powder, or used to make flaxseed oil.

Be careful: Flaxseeds are tough. You will need a good mortar and a lot of elbow grease to grind them. Or an excellent spice blender.

Flax seeds in cooking

The seeds are viral in cooking due to their richness in nutrients essential for health. We also find them a lot in vegetarian cuisine. Here are some of the most common ways to use flax seeds in cooking: (can you use flax seeds in cooking)

In powder: There are many preparations that can benefit from adding ground flaxseed to them. Smoothies, cereals, yogurts, bread doughs and other foods add nutrition and flavor. 

In oil: Flaxseed oil is extracted from flax seeds and can be used in cooking to add a touch of flavor to salads and other dishes and to make sauces. 

As a substitute for eggs: Baking goods and other dishes can benefit from ground flaxseed as an egg substitute. They are mixed with water to form a thick paste that can be used to replace eggs. 

In granola and cereal bars: Flaxseed can be added to granola and cereal bars to boost nutrition and flavor. 

In gluten-free full-seed bread: A recipe learned during a vegetarian cooking workshop. Super simple to make and very good. 

As a binder: Flaxseeds can be used to bind ingredients in veggie burgers and meatballs.

   For an aperitif in homemade spiced cracker recipes.

     

And in vegetarian cuisine?

Flaxseeds are widely used in vegetarian cooking due to their protein and dietary fiber content. They thus replace the animal protein intake. They can be used in different ways to replace eggs. Or add texture and flavor to various vegetarian dishes. 

As an egg substitute: Simply mixing ground flaxseed with water, you can create a paste that can be used as an egg substitute in baking and cake recipes. 

In protein drinks: Ground flaxseed can be added to smoothies to increase the protein and fiber content. 

Try the vegetable balls: Ground flaxseed can be added to vegetable balls to improve consistency and add protein. 

In pasta: Ground flaxseed can be added to plant-based pasta to increase protein and fiber content.

 
Other recipe ideas

If you want an ingredient to make your homemade bread, you will obtain impeccable results with flax seeds. For your bread seed mixtures, you can also use them to enhance the taste of your preparation.

For your salads, try flax seeds, which will add something extra to your dessert. Its sweet taste guarantees you a unique tasting moment. Don't hesitate to add a teaspoon of this ingredient to your white and red meats or vegetables. Very resistant to cooking, you won't go wrong by sprinkling these foods as mentioned above in this way. 

There are other simple ways to use flax seeds in cooking. Add a few pinches for your cereal in the morning, and you will enjoy yourself during breakfast. You can also put it in your muffins, yogurts and much more.

There are plenty of recipes using flax seeds. It is up to you to choose the ones that you can do easily. Whatever your choice, using this ingredient is not complicated. That said, you can use it without being an expert in the kitchen. 

However, you must know how to use magic seeds to get the most out of them culinaryly. This is why you must pay particular attention to the quantity to put on your food or dishes.

In North African cuisine, particularly in Tunisia, flax seeds are roasted and salted. In this form, they are ideally eaten after a nap, guaranteeing an excellent awakening.

 
How to consume flax seeds?

Flaxseeds can be consumed in several ways:

Ground: Ground flaxseed can be added to smoothies, yogurts, cereals, salads or pasta to increase the fiber and protein content. Be sure to equip yourself with a good spice grinder. Flaxseeds are very hard to grind into powder. 

In capsules: Flaxseed can also be purchased in capsule form for easy and convenient consumption. Available in pharmacies or organic stores. 

Paste: Flaxseed paste can be prepared by mixing ground flaxseeds with water. This paste can be used as an egg substitute in some vegetarian recipes. 

As Oil: Flaxseed oil can be used as a cooking oil or to add a touch of flavor to salad dressings, sauces and marinades.

It is important to note that flax seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place to preserve their freshness and flavor. Consuming them as part of a balanced diet is also advisable to get the most out of them.

 

Are flaxseeds other than in the 

kitchen?

Flax seeds in cosmetics

Flaxseeds are mucilage seeds. This means that from the moment they are soaked in a liquid, they will transform into gel, like mustard seeds.

This gel is perfect for hair. And yes, it will help with styling and thus save you from using chemical gels and hairsprays. This linen gel will also help curly, wavy, frizzy hair by defining curls and locking in moisture. So your beautiful curls will be plump and healthy.

They are also increasingly used in cosmetic products because of their richness in nutrients essential for skin health. Here are some of the most common uses of flaxseed in cosmetics:

Flaxseed Oil: Flaxseed oil is extracted from flax seeds and is often used as a critical ingredient in skincare products, such as moisturizers, lip balms and massage oils.

Face Masks: Ground flaxseed can be used in face masks to add a touch of nutrition and hydration to the skin.

3. Scrubs: Ground flax can be used in body and facial scrubs to help remove dead skin cells.

Health benefits of flax seeds

Flaxseeds are considered an excellent source of nutrients for health. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, dietary fiber, proteins, antioxidants and minerals. Here are some of the best-known health benefits of flax seeds: 

Cardiovascular health: Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. 

Blood sugar control: The seeds are rich in dietary fiber, which can help control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of diabetes. 

Digestive health: Consuming flaxseeds can improve digestion and prevent constipation because of their high fiber content. 

Skin Health: Flaxseeds are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the skin from free radical damage and improve its overall appearance. 

Bone health: Flax is rich in minerals such as manganese, phosphorus and magnesium, which are essential for bone health.

 

Flaxseed and diet

When you want to lose weight and refine your figure, you can include flax seeds in your diet.

They will be considered an ally of the regimes. Thanks to their high dietary fiber and protein content. Which can help control cravings and maintain a feeling of fullness for longer.

We explain how seeds can help with diets.

By controlling appetite. The dietary fiber in these flaxseeds can help control appetite by maintaining a feeling of fullness for longer.

By balancing blood sugar levels. These seeds can help control blood sugar levels due to their dietary fiber content, which can help stave off sugar cravings and cravings.

They help with weight loss. Flaxseeds are high in protein, which may help increase satiety and support weight loss by reducing cravings and helping build lean muscle mass.

They support digestion. The dietary fiber in flaxseed may help improve digestion and prevent constipation, which can help maintain optimal digestive health.

 

Flaxseed and constipation

Flax can help relieve constipation due to its high soluble dietary fiber content. Soluble fiber acts as a thickener in the digestive system, increasing the consistency of stools and helping to pass them more easily.

Additionally, flaxseeds contain mucilage, moisturizing substances that can help keep stools hydrated, making them easier to pass.

It is recommended to consume these seeds ground rather than whole. Whole seeds can pass intact through the digestive system without providing health benefits. It is also essential to drink enough water to help pass stools more easily.

However, be careful with fragile digestive systems. They can speed up transit and make you have a bowel movement more often than usual.

 

Flax seeds, an ally for women

These seeds are often considered beneficial for women's health, especially their reproductive systems. They contain omega-3 and fiber, which can help regulate hormones. They help prevent certain diseases, such as uterine fibroids, and improve cardiovascular health.

They can also help relieve specific symptoms of menopause. They contain lignans, which can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. They also help regulate hormone levels. They can also help reduce hot flashes, irritability and other symptoms of menopause.

However, it is essential to consume them in moderation by chewing them well to get the most out of them.

If you have difficulty digesting them whole, then prefer ground flax seeds.