First of all, I recommend using flaxseed oil rather than grinding your own flaxseeds. Why take flaxseed oil? Organic, unrefined flaxseed oil is considered by many to be the answer to restoring the proper level of essential fatty acids. Flaxseed oil is unique because it contains both essential fatty acids: alpha linolenic (an omega-3 fatty acid) and linoleic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid) in appreciable amounts. Flaxseed oil is the world's richest source of omega-3 fatty acids. At a whopping 58 percent by weight, it contains more than two times the amount of omega-3 fatty acids as fish oils. Omega-3 fatty acids have been studied extensively for their beneficial effects on high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, angina and other risk factors for stroke and heart attack. Other research suggests they may be helpful in easing the symptoms of arthritis and multiple sclerosis and skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. There is also some promising preliminary evidence that they may help inhibit the formation of cancerous cells. How can flaxseed oil have such profound effects on so many health problems? The answer has to do with the extreme lack of the essential fatty acids in our modern diet. Once the essentials are returned to the body, it is equipped to carry out the biological functions the essential fatty acids are prerequisite to performing. For this reason numerous diseases and health problems are improved or alleviated. To date, more than 60 illnesses and health problems have been linked to fatty acid abnormalities. Flaxseeds are also rich in lignans, a class of highly researched phytochemicals that have been found to have anticancer, antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. Their greatest attribute is in the possible prevention of breast and colon cancers. The shell hull of the flaxseed has a higher concentration of lignans than any other food. How much flax oil should one take on a daily basis? The standard dosage is 1 tablespoon for every 100 pounds of body weight. Generally individuals who are ill are advised to take as little as 1/2 a tablespoon a day in order to develop a tolerance for essential fatty acid-rich oil. Within two to three weeks, they should be able to easily tolerate a full tablespoon. Can I expect to get the same benefits from flaxseed oil found in gelatin capsules as I would from the straight liquid oil? Generally one should be wary of oil products sold in gelatin capsules. Oil products found in gelatin capsules are not as high quality because of the extra manufacturing step taken to encapsulate them. Also, the pure liquid oil is far more economical, especially when you consider that you have to take at least nine 1000-milligram flaxseed oil capsules just to get 1 tablespoon of flaxseed oil. On the other hand for someone who would not otherwise take the oil, or for convenience's sake during travel, etc. capsules are the way to go. Rely only on manufacturers of high-quality oil products when purchasing flaxseed oil capsules. Should flaxseed oil be taken alone or with food? There are several advantages to taking flaxseed oil with another food source. Mixing flaxseed oil with yogurt, for example, helps to distribute the oil globules evenly through the food. This aids in the digestion, absorption and utilization of the essential fatty acids. Thanks to Women.com Some useful information Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.