Flaxseed is the seed from the Linum usitatissimum and its oil is used to make many different medicines.

The oil is an active ingredient in many different medicines, supplements and health products, but many people aren’t even aware of how useful it can be.

Here are three surprising uses for Flaxseed oil.

Weight Loss
Flaxseed oil is used in many weight loss products, including shakes, protein bars and diet pills. The oil helps keep bowel movements regular, can prevent constipation and can help remove any toxins or blockages in the digestive tract. Many people like to eat flaxseeds while trying to lose weight and they are found in many different cereals.

ADHD kids have had improvement in symptoms with flaxseed oil supplementation http://t.co/R7MWk1wgmG pic.twitter.com/g6eLzDW4x7

— A Health Blog (@AHealthBlog) November 15, 2014

Skin Treatments
Did you know you can use flaxseed oil on your skin? The oil is used in many different topical creams and can help stop itch, ease pain and smooth swelling and redness. Flaxseed oil can also help with rashes and insect bites.

The powerful benefits of flaxseed oil for your hair. pic.twitter.com/fnOHBwLSG5

— Hairfinity (@hairfinity) November 15, 2014

Heart Problems
Many doctors recommend flaxseed and flaxseed oil to patients who are suffering from heart problems and high blood pressure. Flaxseed oil can help lower blood pressure and prevent the hardening of arteries and prevent heart disease and heart attacks. Doctors may recommend that patients take supplements that contain flaxseed oil or advise them to include it in their diet.

#MorningFact: Charlemagne believed so much in the benefits of #flaxseed that he made laws requiring people to eat it pic.twitter.com/4uGPdPommJ

— KashiFoods (@KashiFoods) November 14, 2014

Flaxseed oil is a great way to help treat and fight certain illnesses and heart problems. While it may not be a replacement for certain medications, it may be a safe alternative in some cases.

If you are considering adding flaxseeds or flaxseed oil to your diet, talk to your doctor about the many benefits and to be sure it will not interfere with any other medications you are already taking.