Flax
Linum usitatissimum, Linaceae. The ripe seeds are the part of the plant used.
The seed pods are gathered when they are fully ripe in summer.
Functions of flax
Flax:
- can be used for all respiratory system infections, especially bronchitis where there is a great deal of catarrh formed. It is often used as a poultice in pleurisy as well as other pulmonary conditions.
- as a poultice can be used for boils, shingles and psoriasis.
- as a purgative it relieves constipation.
Notes on Flax
- A poultice for the chest combines well with mustard.
- For boils, swellings and inflammation it combines well with marshmallow root and slippery elm.
Dosages
Infusion: pour a cup of boiling water onto 2-3 teaspoonsful of dried herb and leave to infuse for 10-15 minutes. This should be drunk morning and evening.
Tincture: take 2-6ml three times per day.
References
Duke, J. A. 2000, Anti-aging Prescriptions. Rodale.
Hoffmann, D. 2000, The New Holistic Herbal. Element Pub.
Hoffmann, F. and Manning M. 2002, Herbal Medicine and Botanical Medical Fads. The Haworth Press.
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