Herbs & Supplements

Flaxseed Other Names: Flaxseed oil, Graine de lin, Leinsamen, Linseed, Linseed oil, Lint bells, Linum, Winterlein What side effects should I watch for? Major Side Effects If flaxseed or flaxseed oil is used in high doses or for prolonged periods of time, reduced potassium levels in the body may result. Low potassium levels can result in muscle weakness and potentially dangerous changes in heart rhythm. Less Severe Side Effects Side effects most associated with taking flaxseed are gastrointestinal (GI) complaints such as bloating, diarrhea, gas, nausea, and stomach pain. Taking flaxseed oil by mouth may result in oily leakage from the GI tract. Allergic reactions, such as itching, rashes, or swelling, have been reported by individuals who took flaxseed or flaxseed oil and by individuals who work in growing or processing flax plants. << Back What interactions should I watch for? >>

Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.

In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.

This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.