Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Extract

Linum usitatissimum seed extract is an extract derived from linseeds (or flax seeds), either whole or from the press cake after oil extraction. These seeds have many uses: they are a source of an important technical oil, used as a culinary ingredient, and maintain a stable place in herbal medicine.

Flax seeds contain mucilage that binds large volumes of water, and so ground flax seeds are sometimes used as a gentle laxative. Other than that, linseeds also contain phytoestrogens (which have various beneficial effects (mainly prevention of osteoporosis)), proteins, and phenolic compounds.

In skincare, linseed extract has emollient and moisturizing (humectant) properties, which means that it is able to bind water and moisturize the skin. The mucilage also forms a moisturizing film on the skin’s surface and the phenolics have antioxidant properties.

Flax seeds have a specific nutty, earthy odour (which might become unpleasant if the seeds turn rancid).