Alsi seeds are an integral part of most Indian diet. Alsi is known by different names such as  Linseed/Flaxseed in English,  Alsi, Alasi, Teeshas in Hindi,  Atasi, Neempushpi, Alasi, Kshuma, picchala, Neela, Neelapushpin in Sanskrit, Marshina in Bengali, Javasu in Marathi, Kattan in Arabic, Alasi in Gujarati, Alasi, Aviselu, Atasi, Bittu in Telugu, Ali Virai in Tamil, Agase or Agasi beeja in Kannada. Flax seeds are pretty teardrop shaped seeds that are smooth in nature. Alsi seeds are packed with essential fatty acids, fiber, and lignans, which are phytoestrogens that may help reduce the risk of breast cancer and support prostate health. They also lower blood pressure, improve heart health by reducing blood cholesterol and triglycerides, aid digestion, and promote weight management and  help in managing health problems like fever, cough, obesity, and wound healing etc. Alsi seeds belong to Linaceae family and the Latin name is Linum Usitatissimum.

Alsi is a winter crop that grows abundantly in all parts of India including the Himalayas. The crop differs in color, shapes and sizes as per the area it is cultivated and can be found in red, white, yellow and black varieties. Alsi seeds are used to extract the oil and their stems are used for obtaining the fibres. Alsi plant bears blue flowers and hence named as “Neela”.

What are the Alsi properties?

·       Guna (Characteristics): Guru (Heavy), Snigdha (Smooth), Pichhil (Slimy Nature)

·       Rasa (Taste): Madhura (Sweet), Tikta (Bitter)

·       Vipaka (After taste that develops post digestion): Katu (Pungent)

·       Virya (Potency): Ushna (Hot Potency)

Flax Seeds are nutrient-rich and just one tablespoon of ground flaxseeds (7 grams) gives you about 37 calories plus omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, protein, lignans, some vitamins and minerals. Alsi seeds can be used in both the form of Alsi oil and Alsi powder in various preparations singly or in combination with other seeds to enhance overall nutrition status of the body.

What are the special activities of Alsi Seeds?

Alsi balances vata disorders and improves kapha and pitta body energies. Its high dietary fiber helps regulate bowel movement and reduce constipation and bloating. Alsi seeds are considered as both ‘Balya’ (health and immunity booster) and ‘Medhya’ (brain booster). Thus, consuming these seeds is regarded as quite healthy as these seeds are rich in omega-3 and omega-6, and can even treat diseases like ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), hydertension and even Alzheimer’s. As per Ayurveda, those having issues related to malnutrition, bone & joint pain, weakness and low flow during periods must consume these seeds in their diet.

Remember, the flax seeds are known to be hot in nature and their over consumption can bring an imbalance in the Pitta and Kapha elements of the body and throw hormones out of balance, which is known as seed cycling.  Therefore, they should be consumed in moderation as a medicine. Alsi seeds are known to protect the skin from multiple dermatological ailments like dryness, premature wrinkling, soreness, and more. You should also reduce the consumption of these seeds, if you are experiencing issues like excessive period flow, high heat in the body, trying to conceive, or even struggling with low libido.

What are the key components of Flaxseeds that prevent breast and prostate cancer?

One of the critical active components in flaxseeds is lignans, which are rich in phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens are plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen in the body and they can suppress excess estrogen in women, particularly helping in reducing the risk of breast cancer. Research has shown that when breast cancer cells were treated with flaxseed powder, the growth of these cancer cells was significantly reduced.

Flaxseeds are also beneficial for the treatment of prostate cancer and the enlargement of the prostate gland issues among men today. Recent clinical studies have shown that consuming flaxseeds can be more effective than some conventional medications in managing prostate conditions. Thus, incorporating at least two tablespoons of flaxseeds in your diet can be beneficial in preventing the progression of breast cancer, especially in postmenopausal women and maintaining prostate health among men. For maximum benefits, it is crucial to grind the seeds and consume them in powdered or Chutney powder form than the whole flaxseeds.

·       Impact on Blood Pressure: Trials have demonstrated that if flaxseeds are consumed on a regular basis can help reduce blood pressure by lowering systolic blood pressure by 15 points and diastolic blood pressure by 7 points compared to the calcium channel blockers.

·       Cardiovascular Benefits: Flaxseeds are a good source of protein Omega-3 Fats which is an alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) for a vegetarian or a vegan who does not eat fish. ALA in flax seeds prevents cholesterol from being deposited and improves heart health. Alsi seeds are effective in lowering cholesterol and triglycerides, and reducing the risk of atherosclerosis, which in turn, helps prevent heart diseases, vascular diseases, and conditions like paralysis and stroke.

·       Digestive Health: Flaxseeds are rich in soluble fiber, which aids in relieving constipation and helps slow down digestion and regulate blood sugar and lower cholesterol. They also have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation in the body, benefiting those with joint pain and muscle pain.

·       Weight Management: Flaxseeds are a valuable addition to any weight management plan. Alsi seeds can keep hunger at bay and aid weight control since they are rich in dietary fiber, they promote a feeling of fullness, which can help reduce overall calorie intake. The high content of omega-3 fatty acids and lignans in flaxseeds also supports metabolic health.

·       Skin Care: Flaxseeds are a powerhouse for skin health. They have high content of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and lignans. These nutrients help maintain skin hydration, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy, radiant complexion.