What Are the Benefits of Organic Flaxseed Oil?

Benefits

• Flaxseed oil may promote heart health and low cholesterol. Some people use it to treat arthritis and prevent cancer. Evidence supporting the use of flaxseed oil for these reasons is uncertain, however, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Function

• The benefits of flaxseed oil come from essential fatty acids, such as omega-3, eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid and omega-6. Some of these fatty acids fight inflammation, which may reduce arthritis pain. The balance of omega-6 and omega-3 contributes to lowered cholesterol and increased heart health.

Considerations

• The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends caution when taking flaxseed oil for people who suffer from schizophrenia, diabetes, prostate cancer or macular degeneration. In addition, people taking medications that thin the blood or lower blood sugar should consult a physician before taking flaxseed oil supplements, since omega-3 fatty acids can increase blood sugar levels and the effects of blood thinners.