linseed

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Flaxseed profile

Botanical name

Lini semen or usitatissimum

Family

Flax plants

nickname

Flax or seed

Origin of the name

linum usitatissimun means “extremely useful flax”

Origin/Cultivation

Flaxseed has been cultivated for 7,000 years and was used not only as a medicinal herb but also for the production of textiles. Until the 18th century, flax was one of the world's most important textile raw materials, until it was slowly replaced by cotton. 
Flaxseed was considered a medicinal plant in many of the oldest cultures on earth. Linseed oil was already recommended as a remedy in the writings of the polymath Hildegard von Bingen, who lived from 1098 to 1197. 

Facts in brief

The Latin name already indicates the versatile uses beyond nutrition: Top protein and magnesium supplier, contains alpha-linolenic acid, one of the most effective anti-inflammatory agents – just one tablespoon a day is enough

Happen

To this day, flax is cultivated in many regions, including Germany! The main producers include Canada and Kazakhstan, as the plant prefers a temperate climate.    Season/Harvest (DACH)

In Germany, flax is harvested from July to September. You can tell whether it's ripe enough by the rustling sound of the flaxseed capsules when shaken.  

Season/Harvest Europe  

JAN x FEB x MAR x

APR x MAY x JUN x

JUL ˽ AUG ˽ SEP ˽

OCT x NOV x DEC x 

x not available ˽ Outdoor 2 Ո Storage / Greenhouse

Storage conditions

Seeds: cool, dry and protected from sunlight

Crushed: use quickly, they go rancid faster

Edible parts

Seeds, whole or crushed

Preparation form

raw, ground, pressed as flour, oil