FolkKB

Linum usitatissimum

Linum usitatissimum

Linum usitatissimum, commonly known as flax, is a plant utilized across various traditional medicine systems. It has been historically applied as an emollient, demulcent, laxative, and astringent to address conditions such as cough, diarrhea, inflammation, bronchitis, burns, and boils. Scientific research suggests potential multi-target therapeutic activity against respiratory disorders through specific protein interactions. Additionally, some studies indicate it may modulate oxytocin signaling pathways, which could potentially exert anti-anxiety effects. No major safety issues or notable drug interactions have been recorded in the available data.

At a glance
Traditionally for
emollient · demulcent
Traditions
Western phytotherapy · traditional · TCM
Best evidence
D
Cautions
—

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

Traditional use

What the science says

  • Flaxseed modulates the oxytocin signaling pathway via CALM3-mediated calcium signaling, potentially exerting anti-anxiety effects. D PMID
  • Genomic selection for flax seed yield showed promising predictive abilities across multiple populations, supporting its routine integration into breeding programs to reduce costs and accelerate cycles. D PMID
  • Biogenic zinc oxide nanoparticles significantly enhanced agronomic traits in linseed compared to chemical nanoparticles and bulk ZnO, with optimal responses at moderate concentrations and specific exposure durations. D PMID
  • The study found that Linum usitatissimum, among other plants, showed potential multi-target therapeutic activity against respiratory disorders through interactions with key proteins and pathways. D PMID
  • Nine isolates showed significant improvement in Linum usitatissimum seed germination and growth. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Linum usitatissimum?

Linum usitatissimum (Linum usitatissimum) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What is Linum usitatissimum traditionally used for?

Traditional sources record Linum usitatissimum for: emollient, demulcent, cough, diarrhea, expectorant, inflammation. This reflects traditional use, not a proven medical treatment.

Which traditions use Linum usitatissimum?

Linum usitatissimum appears in these traditions in our sources: Western phytotherapy, traditional, TCM.

What does the scientific evidence say about Linum usitatissimum?

5 sourced findings are recorded for Linum usitatissimum; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Flaxseed modulates the oxytocin signaling pathway via CALM3-mediated calcium signaling, potentially exerting anti-anxiety effects.

How strong is the evidence for Linum usitatissimum?

The strongest finding for Linum usitatissimum carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Linum usitatissimum safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Linum usitatissimum in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Linum usitatissimum interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Linum usitatissimum in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

Is Linum usitatissimum a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T3 Dr. Duke's Ethnobotanical Database public domain (USDA ARS — attribute Dr. Duke's)
  2. T2 Machine learning and mathematical modeling for comparative analysis of green-synthesized ZnO nanoparticles as seed nano-priming agents for linseed. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) Modulates Oxytocin Signaling Pathway via CALM3-mediated Calcium Signaling: A Protein-protein Interaction Network and Functional Enrichment Analysis. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Genomic selection for seed yield enhances flax breeding efficiency. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Network pharmacology-based therapeutic illustration of Indian medicinal plants in respiratory disorders. literature abstract metadata
  6. T2 Isolation and characterization of metal resistant plant growth promoting endophytic bacteria from Cynodon dactylon L. (Pers). literature abstract metadata