Flax, scientifically known as LinumusitatissimumL, is a source of essential fatty acids (omega-3 fatty acids such as alpha-linolenic acid and omega-6 fatty acids, which are essential for good health). Consumption of flaxseed oil lowers blood fats (total cholesterol and LDL), so it is also effective in protecting the heart with this mechanism.It also lowers HDL, although it is feared that despite the simultaneous decrease in LDL, the level of protection of the heart decreases. Fortunately, research has shown that the rate at which cholesterol leaves macrophage cells and enters serum is not affected.

Flax and its oil suppress the production of oxygen free radicals by white blood cells. Flax contains 32-45% oil, which contains 51-55% alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and 15-18% linoleic acid. Linen is the richest source of lignan called SDG (secoi solariciresinol diglucoside) which has antioxidant effect. Linen reduces atherosclerosis caused by hypercholesterolemia without affecting serum lipids. It may be due to the suppression of the production of oxygen radicals by multinucleated white blood cells by alpha linolenic acid or the antioxidant effects of SDG. The n-3 fats in flaxseed oil increase the effects of the antioxidant enzymes catalase and glutathione peroxidase.