Common Flax also known as Linseed. It has been grown for centuries for its fibrous stems that make linen. It can be grown in the United States but is not usually cultivated here. It is cultivated in Canada for linseed oil and seeds, and Russia and the Republic of Georgia for its fibers and seeds. The sprouts are edible raw however too much will cause constipation. Eating the seeds is where you will get most of your nutrition but they will have to be chewed well as they do not digest well.

Flax has been used as a nutritional supplement for generations. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. The seeds will actually relieve constipation taken in moderation. You can also take linseed oil however fresh linseed oil goes rancid very quickly.

The omega-3 fatty acids are shown to have a direct effect on lowering cholesterol which can prevent ischemic heart attack. The omega-3 fatty acids  lowers your blood pressure and can help treat type 2 diabetes. It will also protect you from strokes and increase your survival of heart attacks and strokes.

Testing has shown that flax seeds have lignans which is a phytoestrogen that is at a rate up to 800 times more than other plants. This property of flax does not only treat breast,prostate, and cervical cancers but it inhibits the pathways to cause cervical cancer. It is believed that it can and will be as effective at stopping breast and prostate cancers in the same way. It was also shown to be a good support herb for conventional cancer treatments. Since cervical cancer is called the silent killer of women because by the time you notice symptoms the cancer is pretty invasive and established. Early detection of any cancer is critical but eating flax seeds every day will help prevent cervical cancer.  

Flax seeds are anti-inflammatory and have neuroprotective properties, antioxidants and modulates hormones. All these properties will help with Autoimmune issues like Arthritis and Diabetes. It will help with Acute respiratory distress syndrome and will help clear congestion.

It can help be used as a poultice for boils, abscesses, Herpes, and Acne. 

1-2 tablespoons is recommended for daily intake. This should be in ground form as whole seeds just do not digest well. This can be in anything like yogurt, muffins, or pancakes. You can even make flax seed milk. It will need to be drunk in 3 days so it does not spoil. 

1000 mg of flaxseed oil is recommended for weight loss.