Nomenclature
Flaxseed; linum. Description and references
Dried ripe seeds of Linum usitatissimum L., Linaceae. Constit. 30-40% oil, about 6% mucilage,
about 25% proteins and linamarin. Brief review of medicinal uses:
M. Wichtl, N. G. Bisset, Herbal Drugs and
Phytopharmaceuticals, English Ed. (CRC Press, Boca Raton,
1994) pp 298-300
Derivative
Linseed oil.
Description and references
A drying oil obtained by expression of linseed.
Constit. Glycerides of linolenic, linoleic, oleic, stearic,
palmitic and myristic acids. Ref: T. P. Hilditch, The Chemical Constitution of Natural Fats (London, 3rd ed., 1956) p 175 sqq; E. W. Eckey, Vegetable Fats and Oils (New York, 1954) pp 535-547.
Properties
Yellowish liquid, peculiar odor, bland taste.
Exposed to air it gradually thickens, becomes darker, and acquires
a more pronounced odor and taste. d 0.925-0.935. nD40 1.4725-1.4750.
Does not congeal above 20°. Sapon no.: 187-195. Iodine no. not
below 170. Unsaponifiable matter not over 1.5%. Slightly sol in
alcohol, miscible with chloroform, ether, petr ether, carbon disulfide,
oil turpentine.Use
Emollient. Oil in varnishes, paints, putty, oilcloths,
linoleum, printing inks, artificial rubber, tracing cloth, tanning
and enameling leather; applied to paper and fabrics to render them
waterproof and tough.
Therapeutic Category
Laxative; externally as poultice.
Therapeutic Category (Veterinary)
Laxative.