Flax plant is native to the area extending from the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea to India. The ancient Egyptians and Ethiopians cultivated the plant for many uses, particularly the production of linen cloth. In the Georgia Caucasus mountains, archaeologists have found dyed flax fibers dating to 34,000 BCE. It was grown in Palestine before the arrival of the Israelites. For Rahab The Harlot (Joshua 2:1,6) took part in hiding the two spies under the stems of flax on the flat roof of her brothel. The cloth, made from locally grown flax, would have been much welcomed by travelers. Their clothes, after such a long trek through the wilderness, might have been showing signs of considerable wear.
Solomon congratulates a good wife who separates the fibers of the flax and makes fine linen (Proverbs 31:13). Fine flax is mentioned in Isaiah 19:9 when it is obvious that white cloth and thin white linen were made.
Obviously, from the written record, the Egyptians studied the health benefits of flax seed. Making linen for Pharaoh gave Joseph of Egypt fine linen clothes himself. After the Israelites had escaped from Egypt and had “spoiled the Egyptians” under the capable direction of Moses. They could make fine linen priestly garments for Aaron and his sons (Exodus 28:3).
Solomon knew the value of flax linen and seems to have made it a state monopoly. Linen was used also as sails for yachts (Ezekiel 27:7). In the new testament, linen towels, and napkins are mentioned. Linen was commonly used for the wrappings of dead bodies (Mark 15:46).
Of course, the most famous use of the word linen was its use for wrapping the body of Jesus Christ. Eternally, the Jewish tradition uses flax seed-made cloth in rabbinical ceremonies. The Talmud gives full instructions as to how Orthodox Jews should harvest, bleach, and prepare flax linen.
The flax of which we speak grows two to four feet in height and bears beautiful blue flowers (there are occasionally white varieties). The plants were grown until they came to full maturity. At this time the harvester will pull them from the ground and lay out to dry. Subsequently, to lose a crop of flax was serious business and was thought to be one of God’s punishments (Hosea 2:9).
The capsules of flax are called “bols.” and the bolled flax is the mature flax, ready for harvesting and drying. Bundles of flax are soaked in water for three to four weeks. This causes what is called “Retting”. Subsequently, the fibers separate, and it is only then that the threads.
The flax plant is an annual that grows to a height of just over 3 feet (1 m) and produces a small round fruit that contains brown glossy seeds. In conclusion, oil from seeds, known as both flax seed and linseed oil, has been used for varnishing and painting for hundreds of years.
Flax seeds are an excellent source of fiber, protein, thiamine, magnesium, phosphorus, and copper, and a good source of vitamin B6, folate, calcium, potassium, iron, zinc, and selenium. Flax seeds also contain alpha-linolenic acid and lignans, both of which may help prevent cancer and heart disease.
A 2008 study in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers, and Prevention found that flax consumption in men caused changes indicative of protection against prostate cancer. In a review published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology, researchers reported on flax and cardiovascular disease concluding that the alpha-linolenic acid in flax has a beneficial effect, “beyond the more conventional cholesterol-lowering actions of most cardiovascular drugs.”
The fruit of the plant is a globular capsule, about the size of a tiny pea, containing in separate cells ten seeds. These seeds are brown (but white within), oval to oblong in shape, and flattened pointed at one end, shining and polished on the surface, and between one-sixth to one-quarter inch long. In addition, these seeds are without odor except when rendered to powder. Their flavor is slightly unpleasant and a slick or slimy taste to them.
Flax seed is a favored remedy in the Middle East and North Africa where flax grows in the wild. The residents in that region of the world utilize its wonderful healing properties. In fact, the healers in the slums of Cairo make a simple poultice by combining one-quarter part ginger root powder with three-quarter parts flax seed powder. They add just enough hot water or hot herb tea of some kind to moisten and stick to the skin.
This mixture was then applied directly to the skin and left there for some time. Specifically, between six to eight hours to draw out any toxic matter forming close to the surface. This remedy is very effective for boils and abscesses. Certainly, this usually depends on the injury being drained of fluid by being lanced with a basic sewing needle. However, the kind that is common worldwide and works for this kind of medical issue. However, this treatment is a folk remedy and not based on research and testing.
Flax seeds commonly have a use for their various health benefits, including their potential anti-inflammatory properties. While flax seeds may offer some relief for certain conditions, it’s important to note that they should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Obviously, snakebites, insect bites, and stings can be serious medical emergencies, and proper medical attention should be sought.
Flax seeds, when ground into a fine powder, can be used as a poultice or applied topically as a paste. This can help soothe the skin and potentially reduce inflammation due to their natural properties. To use flax seed as a poultice, you can follow these steps:
Remember, these remedies can provide temporary relief for minor symptoms. They are not a substitute for professional medical care. Specifically, if you experience a snakebite or a severe reaction to an insect bite, seek immediate medical attention.
Folk healers in Israel make a marvelous tea that works incredibly well in healing any kind of lung or throat disturbance. When there is an accumulation of unwanted mucus or inflammation or both. Certainly, hacking coughs also benefit from this treatment. Stones form in the gall bladder or kidneys and then remove themselves over time with the help of tea. Provide a tablespoon of olive oil, if taken an hour before and after 1 ½ cups of this warm tea are consumed. The same thing holds true for urinary tract infections, only without olive oil. Because of the seriousness of the foregoing problems, medical assistance should be sought in addition to self-treatment.
Bring one pint of water to a boil; add 1 ½ level teaspoon of flax seed, reduce the heat, and permit to simmer, uncovered, for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then cover with a lid and steep for another 35 minutes. Strain and drink while still rather warm. The addition of 1 teaspoon of lemon or lime juice seems to make this tea more effective for these conditions.
However, if the taste is more than you can bear, just sweeten it with a little pure maple syrup or blackstrap molasses to improve the flavor.
The promotion of flax seeds is often about their potential anti-inflammatory properties. This may offer some relief for certain types of pain, including lower back pain or sciatica. However, it’s important to note that flax seeds should not be considered a standalone treatment for these conditions. It is always a recommendation to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
Furthermore, flax seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids, which have an association with reducing inflammation in the body. Inflammation can contribute to pain and discomfort in various conditions, including lower back pain and sciatica. Incorporating flax seeds into your diet may potentially provide some benefits.
Remember, while flax seeds may provide some potential benefits. Following this, flax is not a substitute for medical treatment or professional advice. If you are experiencing persistent or severe lower back pain or sciatica, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional. Subsequently, they can assess your condition and recommend appropriate treatment options. Therefore, the cure may include physical therapy, medication, or other interventions based on your specific needs.
flax seeds are growing in popularity as a nutritious addition to breakfast meals. They offer several health benefits, and you can incorporate them into various breakfast options. Here are a few ways you can enjoy flax seeds for breakfast:
Remember to consume ground flax seeds rather than whole seeds. The body cannot fully digest the whole seeds, and you may not benefit from their nutrients. You can purchase ground flaxseed or grind them yourself using a coffee grinder or food processor.
In conclusion, you can manufacture the oil yourself by crushing flax seeds. In this form, you can refer to the oil as ‘linseed oil’. When laid onto wood in thin layers, it will form a hard transparent varnish. It mostly has a use in the arts and sport for its remarkable properties as a drying oil.
Boiled linseed oil is produced by heating raw fax seeds to a temperature of 302 F. Use boiled linseed oil as the only exterior cover for wood-framed buildings. Furthermore, over decades, many buildings have acquired somewhat of a bronze hue to them it is giving them a burnished gold appearance.
