The seeds come from flax, one of the oldest crops in the world. Flaxseeds belong to the Linaceae family and are botanically known as Linum usitatissimum. It is called sana bija in Hindi. Flaxseeds and its oil contain several skin-friendly nutrients that can help to improve the health of the skin. Flaxseed oil is added to a number of skin care products like shower gels, moisturizers and sunscreen. You can also prepare a scrub from ground flaxseeds to exfoliate the skin. Mix flaxseed powder with yoghurt, honey and mix well. Scrub your skin gently with it for 10 minutes and wash off. The scrub removes dead skin cells and rejuvenates it, leaving it silky smooth. Why are flax seeds beneficial for hair? Flax seeds are a rich source of vitamin E. Vitamin E has proven effects on growth of the capillaries. It provides nourishment to the hair roots, shaft, and the scalp. Flax seeds fulfil the required nutrition for hair and scalp in order to expedite hair growth. They also help control hair breakage or split ends, and provide the required hydration for hair. Vitamin E in the flax seeds helps prevent premature discoloration or graying of hair. Flax seeds contain high amount of Omega-3 fatty acid. These help nourish hair follicles. This in turn helps make hair strong and healthy. Omega-3 fatty acid also improves the elasticity of hair and makes it less prone to breakage. Regular use of flax seeds helps prevent acute hair loss, scalp eczema, and dandruff. Flax seeds are a good source of high quality fibre. These are an affluent source of both soluble and insoluble fibres. Edible fibres are excellent for proper functioning of the intestines. This helps create defence against a host of ailments, which might cause hair loss.
Omega-3 essential fatty acids, "good" fats that have been shown to have heart-healthy effects. Each tablespoon of ground flaxseed contains about 1.8 grams of plant omega-3s. Lignans, which have both plant estrogen and antioxidant qualities. Flaxseed contains 75 to 800 times more lignans than other plant foods.