"Alsi (Linum usitatissimum), commonly known as flaxseed, is one of the oldest cultivated crops, belonging to the Linaceae family. It is grown primarily for its seeds, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, lignans, and dietary fiber. Alsi has been traditionally used in Ayurveda and other traditional systems for its benefits in cardiovascular health, constipation, inflammation, skin disorders, and hormone regulation.
"
Alsi Scientific Name
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Phylum: Angiosperms
- Class: Eudicots
- Order: Malpighiales
- Family: Linaceae
- Genus: Linum
- Species: Linum usitatissimum
Alsi Common Names
- English: Flaxseed, Linseed
- Sanskrit: Atasi
- Hindi: Alsi
- Gujarati: Alshi
- Tamil: Ali virai
- Telugu: Avise ginjalu
- Bengali: Tishi
- Marathi: Javas
- Kannada: Agasi
Traditional and Medicinal Uses
- Cardiovascular Health - Rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), helping to reduce bad cholesterol and support heart function.
- Digestive Health - High dietary fiber content helps alleviate constipation and promotes bowel regularity.
- Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Support - Contains lignans and omega-3s, reducing systemic inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Hormonal Balance - Lignans act as phytoestrogens, helping regulate menstrual cycles and ease menopausal symptoms.
- Skin and Hair Care - Used traditionally to moisturize skin, treat eczema, and improve hair texture.
- Diabetes Management - Helps regulate blood glucose levels due to its soluble fiber content.
Phytochemical Constituents
Alsi contains a rich profile of bioactive phytochemicals:
- Essential Fatty Acids: Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), Linoleic acid
- Lignans: Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG)
- Phenolic Compounds: Ferulic acid, p-Coumaric acid
- Alkaloids: Linamarin
- Proteins and Amino Acids: Rich in arginine, glutamine
- Dietary Fiber: Both soluble and insoluble fibers
- Mucilage: Contributes to laxative and demulcent action
References
Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Part I, Vol. V, Government of India.
Bhavaprakasha Nighantu – Commentary by Sri Bhavamisra.
Kajla, P., Sharma, A., & Sood, D.R. (2015). “Flaxseed—a potential functional food source.” Journal of Food Science and Technology, 52(4), 1857–1871.
Bloedon, L.T., & Szapary, P.O. (2004). “Flaxseed and cardiovascular risk.” Nutrition Reviews, 62(1), 18–27.
Touré, A., & Xueming, X. (2010). “Flaxseed lignans: source, biosynthesis, metabolism, antioxidant activity, bio-active components, and health benefits.” Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety, 9(3), 261–269.
European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition, Council of Europe.
Chopra, R.N., Nayar, S.L., & Chopra, I.C. (1956). Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants. CSIR, New Delhi.
United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Monographs – Linum usitatissimum (Flaxseed).
My Account
![5 Easy Tips to Stay Healthy This Rainy Season 🌧️💪 1️⃣ Keep Dry & Warm – Carry an umbrella or raincoat to avoid getting wet and falling sick.
2️⃣ Eat Fresh & Light – Prefer home-cooked meals, add fruits & veggies to boost immunity.
3️⃣ Drink Warm Water – Flush out toxins, soothe your throat, and prevent colds.
4️⃣ Wash Hands Regularly – Stay germ-free and healthy during rainy days.
5️⃣ Get Enough Sleep & Rest – Recharge your body, boost defenses, and stay energetic. Include Ayurvedic herbs like Tulsi and Ginger 🌿 to naturally strengthen immunity and keep illnesses away! Stay safe, healthy, and enjoy the monsoon! ☔💚 #RainySeasonTips #MonsoonHealth #StayHealthy #BoostImmunity #AyurvedaLife #TulsiBenefits #GingerPower #HealthyHabits #WarmWaterBenefits #EatFresh #HomeCookedMeals #MonsoonWellness #ImmunityBoost #HandHygiene #SleepWell #StayWarm #PreventColds #NaturalImmunity #HerbalRemedies #RainySeasonCare #HealthyLifestyle #WellnessTips #MonsoonVibes #HealthGoals #cleaneatinglifestyle [rainy season health, immunity tips, Ayurvedic herbs, Tulsi benefits, Ginger for health, stay healthy in rains, warm water benefits, monsoon wellness, healthy habits]](https://polycareherbals.com/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed/img/placeholder.png)