Just Flax Seed on Dem!

 Flaxseed-The Versatility Reigns Supreme 

What are Flaxseeds? 

Flaxseeds are one of the oldest cultivated plant in human history. Flaxseed is also widely known as linseeds and are the seeds of the flax plant. It is important to note that each and every part of the flax plant has its benefits. According to Jessica Gavin, they "Are used to make linen and rope. Flaxseeds are also used to make linseed oil, used in woodworking and carpentry." 

The Latin word for flaxseed is Lium Usitatissimum which means "the most useful kind of flaxs." Flaxs are a lover of fuller sunlight, cooler climates with well-drained soil and they also grow in huge fields. 

Over 30,000 years ago flax has been cultivated and grown in countries ranging from Eygpt, China, Syria and Switzerland as a steady crop. 

How Many Types Of Flaxseeds Are There?

There are (2) types of flaxseeds. They are brown and gold which can we found in some groceries and cosmetic stores. It has been stated that the brown flaxseeds are somewhat stronger in flavour and scent compared to the golden ones. They both, however, are great sources of ALA (Alpha-Linolenic Acid). The dark brown is slightly higher in ALA. 

What Are Some Forms That Flaxseeds Take?

• Ground- mostly used in cooking and dietary supplements to prevent several conditions such as constipation, heart disease and cancer, just to name a few. 

• Roasted- can be used on salads, cereals, smoothies

• Whole- can be ingested or used to make flaxseed gel.

What Are Some Benefits of Using Flaxseeds?

Omega-3 Fatty Acids- It is also known as the "good fats" which can help reduce cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancers; prostate and breast. Essential fatty acids help keep nails, skin and hair shiny and healthy. Omega-3 Fatty Acids also help with the elasticity of your hair as it prevents breakage. It can also be used as a scalp treatment for dandruff and itchy scalp. These promotes stronger, healthier and moisturised hair.

 I mean, who does not want that?

 Choline- It is a nutrient that is found in many foods. Our brain and nervous system requires it to regulate memory, mood, muscle control and other functions. 

Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (ALA)- Alpha-Linolenic Acid and other related chemicals in flaxseed oil have anti-inflammatory properties. Flaxseed oil is considered useful for rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.


Lignans- Contains estrogen and antioxidant qualities which promote hormonal balance. Flaxseed is the highest source of lignans in the plant world. They may also help women who are at the menopausal or postmenopausal stages. Lignans can also decrease inflammation and promote hair growth.

Fibre- Soluble and insoluble fibre can help regulate blood sugar, promote weight loss and prevent constipation. Soluble fibres can also help minimise LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol levels. 

Flaxseed Gel

Flaxseed gel is a mucus-like gel that is made by boiling the flaxseeds. Boiling and cooling the seeds creates a gelatinous, moisturising and slippery consistency.

It is a beloved ingredient in the natural hair community because it provides hold, shine and definition to the hair. It is one of the best DIYs because it can be easily made at home. This means that you are aware of the ingredients used to make the gel. More importantly, you are well aware of what you are putting on/in your hair.

Ingredients 

• Whole Flaxseeds (Brown or Gold)
• Water 
• Lavender, Rosemary and Glycerine

Tools

• Stove
• Pot
• Measuring Cup
• Spoon (wooden or metal)
• Funnel (optional)
• Panty House/Cheese Cloth or Socks
• Container/Bottle/Jar

Recipe

• 3 Cups of Water
• 1/2 Cup of Flaxseeds
• 1 drop of Rosemary Oil, Lavender and Glycerine 
• *Optional (Add any of your favourite essential oils) 

Steps 

STEP 1. Place the pot on the stove. Then add 3 cups of water. Turn on the burner and allow the water to boil for 1-2 minutes on medium to high heat. 

STEP 2. Add 1/2 cup of flaxseed. Stir the mixture continuously to ensure that no seed is stuck on the sides of the pot. 

** Do Not Take Your Eyes Off Of the Mixture AT All!**

                                 

STEP 3. Allow the seeds to boil while still stirring occasionally. Seeds may take about 5-8 minutes to boil before you see your first mucus. When the mucus is developed, turn off the burner and allow the mixture to cool for about 20-30 minutes. 

STEP 4.  After the 20-30 minutes has past and the mixture is cooled, place the pantyhose over the measuring cup. 

STEP 5. Take the pot of cooled flaxseeds and begin pouring the mixture into the measuring cup. 

STEP 6. Lift the pantyhose and begin using your hands to slowly extract the mucus-like gel into the cup, separating it from the seeds. Make sure to get all of the gel out of the pantyhose and into the cup. 

                                               

STEP 7. Pour the gel into a container, jar or bottle. If you are using a bottle or jar with a narrow mouth, you may need the funnel to reduce the mess. 

STEP 8. Place a drop of rosemary, lavender and glycerine in the gel and stir or shake it thoroughly until combined. 

STEP 9. Let the gel cool completely before placing it in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it. 

STEP 10. Put the used flaxseeds into a bottle or container and place it in the refrigerator until you are ready to make some more flaxseed gel.   

On Ah Side Note

• Your gel can last in the refrigerator about a month with or without preservatives. I used essential oils in mine and I also gave my aunt some of that same batch without adding any preserving properties and she still has for herself and granddaughter and the smell is still fresh. 
• You will know when your gel has gone rancid by its smell. I check my gel every day to make sure that it is still good to use. 
• Lavender adds a nice fragrance to the gel. You can also use Rosemary or Jasmine oil. 
• Glycerine is used as a water-retaining and emollient ingredient which can also be used as a hair moisturiser. 
• You can also add a tiny drop of Neem oil if you so desire. Neem Oil contains anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and is commonly used in many hair care and skin products. Dilute this oil with another carrier oil (coconut or olive oil). Use a drop of this oil with an essential oil (lavender oil) for a more desirable fragrance. 
• Take out the gel a few minutes before you are ready to use it. Constant exposure to air will allow the oil to deteriorate at a faster pace. After you use the gel and there is still more left you can add a tiny drop of essential or fragrance oil to retain that fresh scent. 
• If you let the gel get too thick it can result in flaking when applied to the hair. To eliminate flaking, make sure the gel has a watery to a gelatinous consistency.
• Because flaxseed is so versatile it can be used via ingestion or by applying it to the hair. Firstly, you can eat them. Adding them to your meals can also prevent many health conditions because it has many health benefits. 
• Add Flaxseed oil to your hair products. It enhances nourishment and hydration. After using the oil watch how your hair begins to flourish. 
• Massage pure flaxseed into your hair so that it can stimulate the follicles, help soothe the scalp and encourage hair growth. 

                    

                             Hairstyles Using My DIY Flaxseed Gel                                                            

                                             

Wet Wash n Go

Dried Wash n Go

 Two Strand Twist 

 Bantu Knot out

                                       

    

Next time you need a DIY Flaxseed Gel Recipe come visit this Website again. We go Flax Seed on Dem!

Sources that I gained information from for this Topic were:
https://www.jessicagavin.com/flaxseed-benefits/
https://naturallclub.com/blogs/the-naturall-club-blog/the-truth-about-flaxseed-for-natural-hair