About flax-A thorough explanation of flax, linen, and flaxseed oil as plants-

There are many things related to flax around us, such as the title of a famous song "Flax Color", flaxseed oil, a healthy food that has been attracting a lot of attention recently, and linen, which has many fans because of its exquisite texture. So, what is flax really? This article explains the history of flax, its characteristics, and how it is used.

What kind of plant is flax?

First, let's take a look at some basic information about flax as a plant. The scientific name for flax is Linum Usitatissimum and the English name is Flax. It is also known by other names, such as nume sesame, annual flax, and red sesame. It is said to have originated in the dry lands of Central Asia, from the Caucasus to the Middle East. It is an annual plant that grows, flowers, and bears fruit within a year, and dies after leaving seeds.

What kind of flowers are flax flowers?

Now let's focus on the flax flower.

Flower Color

Flax flowers are light purple or pale blue in color. The flowers are only about 2 cm in diameter, but at its peak, the flax field is dyed a light purple color, reminiscent of the color of nemophila, which is soothing to the eyes.

Blooming season

Flax blooms about two months after the seeds are sown, but the flowers can be seen for about two to three weeks, and the best time to see them is in early summer, from late June to mid-July. The best time to see the flowers is during the early summer season, from late June to mid-July. Flax flowers open in the morning in the morning sun, begin to wilt as early as 10:00 a.m., and fall off before the sun rises in the afternoon. It is a fragile flower that blooms only for a day.

Where you can actually see it

It can be seen in Hokkaido, where it is mainly grown in Japan. Especially recommended is the Hokkaido Flax Festival held in July in Tobetsu-cho, Ishikari-gun, which is the place where flax cultivation was revived in Hokkaido. The festival is usually held from 7:00am to 1:30pm to coincide with the blooming time of the flax flowers, so why not come and see the beauty of these precious flax flowers?

Use as a dye

Flax flowers are also used as a dye, taking advantage of their beautiful blue color. It is used to dye fabrics and yarns before creating fabrics, and products such as scarves are available.

Flax Flower Language and Birth Flowers

The flax flower heals with its fragility and beauty. Then let's take a look at the language of flowers and its birth flower.

Flax Flower Language

そThe history of the language of flowers goes back to a medieval Arabian custom called "Selam", in which people would put their feelings into a bouquet of flowers and send it to the recipient, who would read the meaning and return it with a bouquet of flowers. This custom of putting words into flowers is said to have been introduced to Europe, where it became popular. In the early 19th century, a book titled "Le Langage des Fleurs," which means "the language of flowers" in Japanese, was published and became a big hit. This seems to have led to the establishment of a culture of patronizing the language of flowers, and the current image of the language of flowers. However, there are many flower words derived from myths, religions, and climates of various countries. People may have been putting their feelings into flowers long before the word "language of flowers" was born. The language of the flax flower is "Thank you for your kindness. Other words for flax include "gratitude," "simplicity," and "your kindness stings. The language of the flax plant is "thank you for your kindness". Flax is often grown as an ornamental plant. It is a dwelling plant that dies in the winter but sprouts and flowers again in the spring from the same plant, whereas flax, which uses seeds and fibers, is an annual plant that blooms and dies within a year. In this way, flax expresses our gratitude to others. Flax flowers are fragile and may be difficult to give as a bouquet gift, but they are the perfect flower to send as a thank you.

Flax as a birth flower

Next, let's talk about flax as a birth flower. For each of the 365 days of the year, a flower of the day is assigned. 365 different flowers are not assigned to each day, but many are assigned to several days. Which flower is assigned to which day depends on customs, folklore, and the time of year it blooms, but it can give you a hint when choosing a flower to give as a birthday present. There are many theories as to when and where the idea of the birth flower originated, and it is not known for certain. Currently, the most popular theory is that it originated from the religious views of ancient Greece and Rome. At that time, the Greeks and Romans believed that God dwelt in everything, including the invisible things called time. However, since the gods were invisible and inaudible, they came to believe that messages from the gods were contained in natural plants instead. Time, in which God dwells, and flowers, in which God's will is contained. From these two beliefs, the concept of the birth flower was born, assigning a flower with a message from God to each day of the month. For flax, the three days of May 3rd, June 1st, and June 3rd are assigned as the birth flowers. The lodging flax introduced in the language of flowers has two days, 5/7 and 6/7. On these days, you can give flax flowers as a birthday gift or give something made from flax, such as linen products.

About Flaxen

Speaking of flax, many of you may have heard of the term flaxen. Here is an introduction to flax color.

What color?

You may have heard the term flaxen, but you may not immediately imagine what kind of color it is. Flaxen is a light brown color with a yellowish tinge that refers to the color of spun flax yarn. Flaxen is a pale brown with a yellowish tinge, which is a natural and ambiguous color that can be described as a light chestnut color. The natural texture of this color gives a gentle impression. In Japan, the term "flaxen-haired maiden" (from Debussy's Prelude) is well known to describe the color of hair. However, flaxen is not a blonde color, but a more natural color.

What is the origin of flaxen?

At first glance, the term "flaxen" may seem like a color that has been around in Japan for a long time, but it is a relatively new color name that came into use after the Meiji era. The English translation of the word "flax" is "flux," and the Japanese translation of this word seems to be "flaxen. Debussy, who composed "The Flaxen-haired Maiden," was a French composer, and flaxen is used in the original title, so it is thought to have originated in France. In France, however, flaxen hair is classified as a type of blond hair. The French have a color called lin, which refers to flax, but it translates to very light blonde. In the 1920s, garçonne, a fashion for women who dressed and styled their hair like boys, became popular. It seems that the hair of the unique female singer who symbolized this garçonne was called flaxen hair. Her portrait is painted with pale blond hair. At that time, France was in the midst of a period in which women were beginning to enter society. In such a turbulent time, seeking tenderness and comfort, "flaxen hair" may have been used as a term to describe a beautiful scene.

The difference between "Amairo" and "Amairo"

There is another color that has the same reading as flaxen, "Amairo," but flaxen and Amairo have completely different color appearances and meanings. As the name implies, Amairo refers to colors and words associated with the sky. It is commonly read as "flaxen," and refers to the bright blue color of the sky, like a clear, sunny day. In this case, it can also be read as "ameiro. If you read "sky blue" as "sora-iro," it is the same color as sky blue, and refers to a blue color with a lighter purple hue than "amai-iro" and "ame-iro. In contrast to the expression of color, tenshiro is used to describe sky patterns and weather. In both cases, flaxen and tenshoku have completely different meanings.

Difference between Flax and Marijuana

A word that is very similar to flax is marijuana. Both are often recognized as the same hemp, but each has its own unique characteristics. Let's take a look at what the differences are.

The characteristics and production areas of each

About Flax

Flax is an annual plant in the Amaranthaceae family, as we have mentioned. It is native to Central Asia, and is produced around the world, mainly in Europe, and in Japan, mainly in Hokkaido. In addition to industrial production, it is also grown for horticultural purposes, and in Hokkaido it is a popular plant that can often be seen in home gardens, parks, and as a street tree. The stems of the flax plant produce a fiber called linen, and the seeds produce an oil called linseed oil. Flaxseed oil is famous as a healthy food, but it is also used for oil painting and paints.

About Marijuana

So, in contrast, what kind of plant is marijuana? Cannabis is an annual herb in the Ascophyllaceae family. It is thought to have originated in Central Asia and has been produced mainly in Asia. It is also thought to be one of the first plants cultivated by humans. In Japanese, it is called cannabis "taima" and hemp is another name for it. It is well known that the approximately 60 components in marijuana have pharmacological effects and are outlawed and punished in Japan. However, it has a long history of use since B.C., and while it is a controlled substance in many countries, it is legal as a luxury item in many others. Internationally, marijuana is restricted due to its toxic content, and its production and possession are required to be regulated by drug treaties. At the same time, however, scientific evidence has been under review since 2016. Research for medical use is also underway, so its use may change in the future. However, like linen, the fiber made from hemp, called hemp, is also well known. There are various types of hemp other than hemp that are used as fiber material, but hemp made from hemp has been used in Japan for a long time. Hemp has been used in Japan for a long time. Hemp is used to make shimenawa (ropes), ohnuki (a tool used for purification at shrines), and robes for offering to the gods. In order to distinguish it from other types of hemp, the word "Oma" was added to the word "hemp" because hemp grows fast and large.

Each fabric and its comfort

Now that we know that both are raw materials for fibers, what are the differences in terms of fabrics and their comfort?

About flax-linen

Because of its fine fibers, linen fabric is famous for its breathability and comfort as a natural material. Because of its characteristics of being supple, thin and shiny, it is called "fabric woven by moonlight". Linen is also easy to clean and resistant to washing. The more times it is washed, the softer the fabric becomes and the whiter the color becomes. If you have ever worn a linen shirt, you will know that it is light and fluffy, and is one of the most comfortable natural materials to wear. Since it is breathable, it does not get sticky even when you sweat, and it is resistant to washing, it is suitable for underwear and daily wear. It also has excellent heat retention properties, so it can be worn cool in summer and warm in winter.

About Cannabis - Hemp

Hemp has strong and bouncy fibers and is durable and sturdy. The fabric is sturdy and cool like linen, but unlike linen, some people find it stiff and comfortable to wear. If you have sensitive and delicate skin, you might want to avoid using it for direct contact such as underwear. Hemp, however, is effective in protecting against UV rays, boasting a blocking rate of over 90%. Wearing 100% hemp fabric as underwear is a good protection against UV rays even without sunscreen. It is also highly antibacterial, which prevents the growth of bacteria and odor. It is a good fabric for daily use such as sheets and pillowcases. Its firmness and elasticity make it difficult to lose its shape, making it a good material for bags, hats, and other products that need to keep their shape.

About growing flax

Now that we know that flax is familiar and useful in our lives, where and how is it actually grown?

Land suitable for cultivation is

Flax is a plant that is sensitive to heat and tolerant to cold and dryness. For this reason, we mentioned that flax originated in the dry lands of Central Asia, but it is now actively cultivated in cold regions. Looking at cultivation areas around the world, flax is mostly grown in areas with higher latitude than Sapporo, Hokkaido. Another characteristic of flax is that it is a strong grower. Although it is not suitable for growing in hot regions, it is relatively easy to grow in any soil.

About the cultivation method

So how do you actually grow flax? Flax seeds should be sown in April or by the middle of May at the latest. It is best grown in a well-drained field, and can be grown either in a field or in a planter. If the soil is too shallow, the plants may fall over when they grow taller. If the soil is too shallow, the plants may fall over when they grow tall. After sowing the seeds, cover them with soil from above. Basically, no watering is necessary after sowing the seeds. However, if there is no rain and the soil is cracked and dry, water the plants. Fertilize with the same type and amount of fertilizer that you would use for a normal flower. Depending on the climate of the time, the buds will appear 3 to 10 days after the seeds are sown, and then the main leaves will appear. Seeds can be sown after mid-May and will still germinate and flower, but they will not grow well and tend to be short. After sprouting, the plant takes about a month and a half to grow to a height of about one meter. About two and a half months after the seeds are sown, the flowers begin to bloom. The flax flower blooms at sunrise and fades away by noon. If you want to enjoy the flowers for a long time, fertilize when the flowers start to bloom. For fiber use to make linen, pull out the stems from the roots by the end of August during the summer. A good rule of thumb is to remove the stems from the roots by the end of August, when there are many green fruits. After the stalks are removed, the seeds are removed and dried while the temperature is still high to extract the fiber. For flax for seeds, the rule of thumb is when the pods are brown and the stems are yellow. After flowering, it withers, but produces pods about the size of a person's pinky finger, and each pod can produce about 10 seeds. They can be dried and stored to be scattered again the following year.

Areas where cultivation is popular

First, let's look at the world. France is the world's largest producer of flax, with a production of about 600,000 tons, according to Global Note's "World Flax Production Ranking by Country," updated in 2019, based on international statistics for more than 1,600 varieties. Belgium, which is next in line after France, produces about 70,000 tons, so it's an outstanding producer. The main production areas in France are located in the north of the country, in the regions of Le Mandy, Calais and Flanders. Despite its high latitude, northern France has a mild climate and is blessed with four distinct seasons. France is one of the world's leading agricultural countries, famous for its cheeses, wines, wheat, and other specialties, and flax is also actively grown there. But what about Japan? Flax prefers cold climates, so Hokkaido is almost the only place in Japan where flax is grown. People often go to Hokkaido in the summer to get away from the heat, and the climate is favorable to flax, allowing it to grow freely.

History of Flax in Hokkaido

Hokkaido is the only place in Japan where flax is grown, but its cultivation in Hokkaido has also changed over time. From here, we will introduce the connection between Hokkaido and flax.

How did the cultivation start?

The earliest cultivation of flax began in the 19th century, during the Meiji era, when Hokkaido was being developed. Takeyo Enomoto is said to have been the first to send flax seeds from Russia. Takeyo Enomoto was one of the central figures in the Meiji Restoration and went to Russia as a minister. This was in response to a proposal for cultivation made by Thomas Anticel, Hokkaido's Minister of Development, in 1871. Mr. Enomoto, the Russian minister, introduced the technology to extract fiber from flax, and the cultivation of flax began in Hokkaido.

The peak season of cultivation

Since then, flax production has grown steadily, and in 1890 the Hokkaido Flax Manufacturing Co. Ltd. was established in 1890. After that, flax factories were built one after another in various parts of Hokkaido, and with the military industry being the main industry at that time, the special demand of World War I came in 1920, and it is said that there were 85 factories in 1921. Women, such as the wives of Tondabei soldiers, were also active as workers. Between World War I and World War II (1914-1945), the area under flax cultivation also increased steadily. The demand for flax increased during World War II and peaked in 1945. At that time, the area under cultivation was said to be about 50,000 hectares in Hokkaido, mainly in the Tokachi region. This is equivalent to about 600 golf courses. You can see how active flax cultivation was. Thanks to the flax business, the area around the flax factory became a bustling town with hospitals, inns, and theaters.

Decline in cultivation

The change occurred in the 1965s. With the defeat of Japan in the war, the need for military use, which was the main demand, disappeared. At the same time, flax cultivation gradually declined as chemical fibers, which can be produced in larger quantities than natural fibers, began to spread. 1967 marked the end of flax cultivation, and flax fields disappeared from Japan. In 1967, flax cultivation came to an end, and there were no more flax fields in Japan. Although the flax business has since disappeared from Hokkaido, there are still many places named after flax production. A typical example is Aso in Sapporo City. The flax factory in Aso had been in operation since 1891, but was closed when the business came to an end, and the area was later developed as a housing complex. When the factory manager at the time was asked for a new name for the area, he proposed to keep the character for hemp, and the town became Aso, Sapporo. Today, flax is still grown in Aso Town, and its beautiful flowers can be enjoyed. In the town, there is an explanatory board that says "Flax Fields" and "Birthplace of the Flax Industry in Japan". This shows the desire of our ancestors to preserve the history of flax cultivation.

Efforts for Revival

Flax cultivation has long disappeared, but a project has been formed to revive it after about 40 years. In 2001, a test cultivation of flax was started at the Entrepreneurship Promotion Office of Hokkaido Technology Consultant Co. There, as they explored and researched flax products, they found that flaxseed oil was effective for health and beauty. In 2005, the "Flax Renaissance Project" was launched with the hope of bringing back the flax flowers that once bloomed in Hokkaido. In 2007, the president of Otsuka Agriculture Co., Ltd. led a group of 10 farmers to form a flax production cooperative in the town of Tobetsu, which had not cultivated flax for nearly 40 years. Since the flax had not been cultivated for nearly 40 years, there were many difficult situations at first, such as abnormal insect outbreaks and typhoon damage. There was no accumulation of cultivation techniques, so it was not easy to revive the cultivation. However, the beautiful scenery of the flax fields in full bloom and the golden seeds ripening in abundance have been a source of joy for many people.

Current

Currently, flax fields are spread all over Sapporo City, Tsukigata Town, Shin Totsukawa Town, and other areas. The most famous of these is the town of Tobetsu, which is also the base of the Flax Corporation. The town of Tobetsu is a sacred place for flax cultivation and is located 20 to 30 kilometers from the center of Sapporo City. Every year in July, the Flax Festival is held, and you can enjoy the flax flowers that bloom all over the fields. The festival is usually held from 7:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., as flax flowers only bloom from dawn to early afternoon. Visitors can not only enjoy the beauty of flax flowers with their eyes, but also learn about the history of flax and try their hand at harvesting flax fibers. There are also a variety of other events such as sales of flax products and other local specialties, local gourmet food booths, and the famous "Flaxen Haired Maiden" song contest. This popular event attracts many visitors every year to see the poetry of early summer, so if you are interested in this event, please come and visit.

Thoughts of people who actually grow flax in Hokkaido

Flax cultivation has been in existence for less than 20 years since its revival after 40 years. Flax cultivation is a relatively new form of agriculture, and farmers are still going through trial and error. Mr. Toshifumi Eiki (Eiki Farm, Tomobetsu Town) says that the hardest part of flax cultivation is that the yield is not stable. There were years when the flax was growing well at first, but the final harvest was not so good. He said that when he first started cultivating, he did not know how to make or harvest them, and reviving cultivation after its demise is a difficult task. Mr. Shintaro Otsuka (Otsuka Farm, Tomobetsu Town) staggers the sowing of seeds in order to stabilize the harvest. Normally, he starts sowing flax seeds in late April, but he sows the seeds earlier so that he can make up for any deviations in the schedule due to the weather that year. They have also tried to reduce the amount of seeds they sow, as the overall quality tends to deteriorate if too many seeds are sown. As you can see, there is no set way to grow flax. In addition to the timing of sowing, each farmer has his own strategy for cultivation, including the amount and timing of fertilizer and weeding methods. Some farmers change their cultivation plan every year. This is how the people involved in cultivation work every day for the customers who look forward to flax.

About Linen

Linen is made by processing the fiber that can be extracted from flax stalks, which many of you may be familiar with on a daily basis. Let's take a deeper look at linen from here.

The Process of Flax to Linen

Flax flowers in July and then bears fruit. It is then harvested from the end of July to August, and the processing of linen begins. Let me show you how it is processed in Japan. The first step is soaking, called letting. After the flax is harvested and comes from the farmers, it is soaked in water. By fermenting the flax, only the transition in the stalk can be extracted. Fermentation allows the bacteria to break down the hard skin and other parts of the stalk surface that are not needed for the threads. The flax, which was green, turns into a flaxen color during this letting process. This method of flooding is also known as fermentation refining. The word "refining" means to remove impurities in order to increase purity, but fermentation refining is one of the oldest methods and is done only through natural chemical reactions. The advantage of this method is that there is no need to use chemicals and the cost is low. After letting the flax dry in the sun, it is bundled and scatted. Scatching is the process of removing the fibers from the stalks so that they can be easily extracted. In the processing plant, the flax is put through a machine that removes the hard skin and other parts of the flax and breaks it into soft fibers. At this stage, flax is transformed into linen. Because only the fibers are extracted, not all of the flax harvested becomes linen; from 100 kg of flax stalks, only 15 kg becomes linen. About 15% is used as linen, and the rest is lost in the manufacturing process or used as fuel or feed. Next comes the hackling process. The linen is combed and sorted into long and short pieces. Then comes the drawing process, where the linen is tanned with wood and iron rolls to make it shiny. This process makes the fibers easier to handle and less prone to loosening during the next spinning. After this process, we move on to spinning, which is the process of making yarn. The yarn is then passed through water to be spun, and the pectin that holds the linen together is controlled while the yarn is spun slowly and carefully, resulting in a yarn that is soft to the touch. Spinning while wetting the yarn with water is called wet spinning, and this is a unique process that differs from other fiber processing processes. The finished yarns are sorted by strength and color, and wound onto bobbins to be woven into fabrics. Once the yarn is ready, it is put on a loom and the process of weaving the fabric, called webbing, begins. The common weaving methods of cloth, plain weave and twill weave, are often used for linen. Linen fabrics of these weaving styles are used for a variety of items, mainly clothing. Changing the weave method also changes the expression of linen fabric. In addition to plain weave and twill weave, there are other distinctive weaves, such as double weave, which creates a luxurious feeling of softness, and crepe, which is woven coarsely to create a fluffy fabric. Also, linen waffle fabric, with its countless raised dice on the surface, is highly absorbent and quick-drying, and gives a lovely impression. Finally, the final process of dyeing and decolorizing takes place. Basically, all natural products are used instead of scientific dyes. In addition to dyeing done by hand or machine, inkjet printing is also possible these days. There are two stages in the linen dyeing process. One is called yarn dyeing, where the yarn is dyed while it is still in the yarn stage. Since the yarn can be dyed thoroughly, it is easy to produce a tasteful color. The other is post-dyeing, which is done after the fabric is made. Since this method dyes the woven fabric, it is easier to produce uneven colors compared to yarn-dyeing, but there are many people who find flavor in it. As described above, flax is processed into linen fabric through a great many steps.

European Linen

I mentioned a little earlier that in the world, linen is grown mainly in Europe, but the history of linen in Europe is long and dates back to ancient times. It has been used as tableware for royal banquets and weddings since ancient times, and because of its pleasant texture, it has been used as a material for underwear for women of high status. It is said that the "lin" part of the word "lingerie" is derived from linen. It is also said that a bride may have a set of bed linen and table linen as her bridal gift, and use them carefully for a long time, even passing them on to her children. Here are four of the most famous European linens.

French Linen

Many of you may have seen apparel products that claim to be made of French linen. As you can see from the brand power of French linen itself, linen produced in France has a reputation for being of high quality. However, in reality, although the cultivation of the raw material, flax, is protected by the French government as an agricultural activity, there is almost no spinning or weaving process in France. As for the characteristics of the fabric, it is smoother and more comfortable to touch than other linen fabrics, and has a sense of quality. For this reason, it is considered to be a linen that is particularly suitable for clothing, and perhaps because of its large production volume, it is often seen mainly in clothing, and is relatively easy to obtain.

Irish Linen

The Flanders region, the northern part of what is now the Kingdom of Belgium, has been known for its linen making since ancient times. During the Reformation, the old Flemish Christians were driven out by the new Christians and migrated to Ireland. Many linen technicians also immigrated to Ireland, and this was the first time that linen manufacturing technology was transferred to Ireland. Later, around the time of the American Civil War, the U.S. was no longer able to produce clothes domestically. At that time, Irish linen was exported as a substitute for cotton, and it became popular due to its high quality. Since then, Irish linen has become famous for its high quality.

Belgian Linen

As mentioned with Irish linen, linen making has been active in Belgium since ancient times, and as the home of linen, it has long had a reputation for high quality. The flax producing regions of Belgium and France are geographically connected by land, and Belgian linen is of the same quality as French linen. At present, however, the process of scutching and then extracting the fibers and the weaving process are in Belgium, but the spinning process is not in the country and is sent to countries in Eastern Europe. In Belgium, it is said that the wrinkles in your clothes are the same as the wrinkles in your life. In Belgium, wrinkles in clothes are like wrinkles in life. It is also soft to the touch and can be used for sensitive skin, and is also used for baby products. The fabric is cool in summer and warm in winter.

Lithuanian Linen

Linen from Lithuania is widely distributed in Japan. For a long time, the Baltic countries of Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia have been famous for their linen production, and linen in particular has played an important role in Lithuanian culture. The entire process of producing linen in these countries is completed domestically, from flax cultivation to fiber extraction, spinning, and weaving. As for the characteristics of the fabric, the color is slightly grayish, probably due to the climatic conditions and soil, giving it a rustic look. Compared to the luxurious feel of French linen, many lovers are attracted to its simplicity.

Japanese Linen

In Japan, flax cultivation does not have as much history as in Europe, as it once disappeared. However, in recent years, with the reevaluation of lifestyles, it has been gaining attention and is becoming popular among people of all ages. Keeping good things for a long time rather than disposing of them is an earth-friendly lifestyle that will put a stop to mass production and mass consumption, and also help curb global warming. With the popularity of linen and the revival of flax cultivation, linen products are now being manufactured in Japan. Incidentally, linen woven in Japan is called domestically produced linen. For example, if yarn produced in Europe is spun in China and woven in Japan, it can still be called domestic linen. Here are some companies that are actually involved in domestic linen production.

LINNET

LINNET :Linen cotton Fabrics & mercerie Garden*Garden@LINNET Linen & Goods It is a store with a showroom and gallery in Kyoto that deals in carefully selected natural fabrics and miscellaneous goods, mainly original linen fabrics. They also take orders for linen clothing and curtains. The shop carries a wide variety of linen fabrics, some of which are one-of-a-kind items hand-dyed by dye artists, and has been featured in an NHK information program on how to wash clothes made of linen.

linen house

LINEN HOUSE This is a store that makes use of the eco-friendly and comfortable linen material to offer suggestions that will bring richness and happiness to your life. Our motto is to make products in Japan for comfort and peace of mind, and we place importance on the reliability of materials and weaving at specialized linen factories in Japan. The finished linen fabric is cut by hand one by one by skilled craftsmen, and then carefully made into products. The products they handle range from bed linen such as sheets and covers, bath products such as bathrobes and towels, and clothing such as pajamas and underwear. There are also baby products that make use of the skin-friendly characteristics of linen and various linen gifts.

Linen specialty store Caliente

Linen Specialty Store Caliente ? Fine linens for your everyday life! We are an Osaka-based store that has been designing and producing linen products since 2002. We import linen from several partner factories in Europe, and offer a wide range of kitchen, bed, and tableware products. The variety of linen fabrics they carry includes French linen, Irish linen, Belgian linen, Lithuanian linen, and other Scandinavian fabrics.

Faux & Cachet Inc.

Faux & Cachet Inc. This is a specialty store in Osaka that deals in Lithuanian linens. The store is dedicated to conveying the craftsmanship, careful work, and the peaceful atmosphere of Lithuania through the rustic and robust Lithuanian linen. The website introduces the charm of Lithuania and how to care for Lithuanian linen based on its characteristics. The website introduces the charm of Lithuania and how to care for Lithuanian linen based on its characteristics.

ATTENTION JAPAN PRODUCTS

Vlas blomme We carry linens from Kortrijk, which has been the center of the linen industry in Belgium for centuries. The brand name, Vlas Blomme, means "linen flower" in Flemish. Flemish is a language of Flanders, Belgium. It was born in 2006 with the idea of using only the highest quality linen to make clothes that will be loved for a long time, to make things that are truly good and to be cherished. The company has been developing new fabrics related to winter linen, linen denim, and linen, and has received high praise from around the world.

About Flaxseed

So far, I have introduced you to flax, which is used as a fiber material, but as many of you know, linseed oil is extracted from flax. Now let's talk about flaxseed oil, and first of all, let's talk about the seeds.

What is Flaxseed?

The word "flaxseed" in flaxseed oil literally means flaxseed. Flaxseed is the seed of the flax plant. Flax flowers in the summer and then produces fruit about the size of a grape. Inside the fruit, there are about 10 seeds at most, which are flaxseed. Flaxseeds look very similar to sesame seeds, but they are much larger than sesame seeds and come in two colors: golden brown and brown. Flaxseed is called Flax Seed in English, but its scientific name is Linum Usitatissimum, where Linum means linen, which we have already mentioned as a fiber material, and Usitatissimum comes from the word usitaus, which means "most beneficial. Flaxseed contains amazing nutrients in its small grains, which is why it is called a superfood, and its scientific name expresses its health benefits. The nutrients in flaxseed seem to have a very long history. Stone Age sites in Switzerland have been excavated where flaxseed was used. In France in 800 A.D., Charlemagne the Great made it a law to inoculate people with flaxseed. In the U.S. and Canada, the cultivation of flax began after that, and flaxseed began to be used for food and as an herb. In Japan, edible flaxseed has recently become available at organic food stores and online shopping.

On eating flaxseeds

The health components in flaxseed include alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid, lignans, dietary fiber, antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins B and E. The high content of these essential nutrients for the body is the reason why flaxseed is called a superfood. Flaxseed oil is more recognized as a food than flaxseed, but the lignans and fiber in flaxseed are much less when processed into flaxseed oil. This is where the benefits of consuming flaxseed in its raw form come in. However, when flaxseeds are eaten as is, the hard shell of the flaxseed is not digested and is passed out. In order to effectively consume the nutrients in flaxseeds, it is best to grind them into a powder. You can grind flaxseeds in a coffee mill, spice mill, or even a mortar. Flaxseeds should not be heated, and should be used as is. However, some people believe that if flaxseed is consumed directly without heating, it should be heated because it contains some cyanide, a naturally occurring toxic substance. Mainly overseas, people who are inoculating themselves with flaxseed as it is are incorporating powdered flaxseed on salads, yogurt, cereals, in soups, or mixed into juices and smoothies. Other recipes include making a crepe-like crust with flaxseed powder and wrapping ingredients around it. There are also a variety of other foods that contain flaxseed that have been introduced. As with other minor grains, there are breads such as muffins and bagels, snacks such as cereals and granola, and pancake mixes in powdered form that are being developed for use. In addition to humans, flaxseed is also used as animal feed. Eggs from chickens raised on flaxseed are sold in supermarkets around the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia, and are also used in pet food for household use.

Linseed oil is produced from flaxseed.

Flaxseed oil is made by extracting it from flaxseed. Flaxseed oil is also expected to have health benefits similar to those of flaxseed. Recently, flaxseed oil has been attracting attention in Japan as a super food that can benefit the health of modern people, and various information about it has been introduced on TV, magazines, and the Internet. It is now readily available in supermarkets.

About Flaxseed Oil

Flaxseed oil is made from the superfood flaxseed. Here is some information about flaxseed oil.

The process of producing flaxseed oil (harvesting to oil production)

Flax for making flaxseed oil is harvested when the flowers have bloomed and the color has turned brown, and the berries are ripe and full of flaxseed. The best flax for flaxseed oil is the one that has been exposed to plenty of sunlight in cold regions. Pressure is applied to the harvested flaxseed and the oil is extracted slowly and carefully. Vegetable oils are often pressed at high temperatures, but this method is not suitable for flaxseed oil. Of all the healthy components in flaxseed oil, omega-3 fatty acids are the most valuable, but they are vulnerable to heat and easily oxidized. Flaxseed oil is extracted using a cold-pressing method, also known as cold-pressing, because it is necessary to press the oil while retaining this component. According to European standards, the temperature should be no higher than 40 degrees Celsius. Such cold pressing allows the oil to retain the omega-3 fatty acid component. When buying flaxseed oil for food, the method of pressing is another thing to check.

How to Use Flaxseed Oil

Flaxseed oil is a major health food, but it is not only used for food. There are two main ways to use flaxseed oil.

Eat

By taking it directly with food or drink, the body will take in the healthy components of flaxseed oil. The basic rule of eating flaxseed oil is to use it as is, without heating. You can take it as it is, but it has a unique bitterness and peculiarity, and many people do not like the taste of it as it is. However, the bitterness and peculiarity can be said to be due to the fact that it contains more nutrients than those produced by the cold-pressing method. On the other hand, if the flaxseed oil is tasteless and odorless, it is more likely to have been refined in a scientific way. However, as the process of making flaxseed oil continues to evolve, more and more flaxseed oil is being produced with less odor and less gloom, which are considered to be the cause of dislike. It is a good idea to choose cold-pressed flaxseed oil, and then compare several flaxseed oils to find one that you are comfortable eating. You can, of course, consume it with food or drinks instead of just by itself. This will make it less bitter and peculiar, and many people will find it easier to resist. Since heating should be avoided, the most common cooking methods are pouring, mixing, and dressing.

Paint

In addition to eating, flaxseed oil is also used as a coating or paint. Linseed oil is a drying oil that gradually oxidizes and hardens as a result of a chemical reaction in the air. This property of natural drying makes it suitable for use in paints. It is a natural material made from flax, so it is safe. It also has other advantages such as being resistant to rot and mold, repelling water, and reducing the risk of sick building syndrome caused by chemical substances. If you want to use it as a paint, you can substitute it with edible linseed oil, which is readily available at supermarkets. In DIY, linseed oil is used to make Wakoto oil. Wakoto oil is used in oil finishing, a method of applying oil to the surface of woodwork, and was created in England about 70 years ago. It was created in England about 70 years ago. Oil finishes can be used to improve the appearance and protect the surface of wooden items such as tables, furniture, and floors. Wakoto oil is made by mixing vegetable oil with a solvent, linseed oil is used as the vegetable oil. Linseed oil is used as the vegetable oil. Linseed oil is a drying oil that dries easily and is not sticky when applied. Linseed oil is also used in oil painting, which has a long history and was used in Western paintings as early as the 15th century. Linseed oil, the most common oil used in oil painting, is added to artificial pigments when they are kneaded into paints, or when they are added to dilute paints. Linseed oil is rich in linolenic acid, which makes it dry much faster than poppy oil, which is also a drying oil. In addition, its high fixative properties make it possible to create a strong paint film, and it can produce a luster and transparency that cannot be achieved with paints, thus bringing out the charm of oil painting. Linseed oil is famous for its health benefits, but it is also considered to be the most important oil in the world of painting.

Ingredients in flaxseed oil�@: Omega-3 (alpha linolenic acid)

Omega-3 fatty acids have been mentioned several times in the text so far. Many of you may have heard of them. Here is a summary of why they are important and what they can do for you.

What are Omega-3 fatty acids?

Omega-3 fatty acids are found in lipids, one of the three macronutrients. Lipids are made up of fatty acids, which can be divided into saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of unsaturated fatty acid, and since unsaturated fatty acids cannot be produced in the human body, they can only be obtained from food. Alpha-linolenic acid is one of the major components of omega-3 fatty acids. When this alpha-linolenic acid enters the body, it is converted into the components EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These are said to have various health benefits when they are sufficient, while a lack of them may cause illness.

Why are omega-3 fatty acids so important?

Alpha-linolenic acid is converted into EPA and DHA in the body. EPA increases good cholesterol and reduces bad cholesterol, while DHA is a major fatty acid for the brain, activating nerve cells and improving brain function. Because of these effects, alpha-linolenic acid, which is converted into EPA and DHA, is considered to be very good for health. For example, alpha-linolenic acid is believed to be effective against dementia and Alzheimer's disease, which are common in the elderly. For example, alpha-linolenic acid is believed to be effective against dementia and Alzheimer's disease, which are common among the elderly, because it prevents the formation of blood clots, thus preventing vascular dementia, and also improves the function of brain nerve cell membranes. This is a good way to prevent dementia and Alzheimer's disease. It is also said that EPA and DHA are necessary for pregnant mothers. The intake of omega-3 fatty acids can help the development of the fetus' body and brain, decrease the risk of premature birth, and reduce allergies after birth. At the same time, EPA and DHA should be delivered to the child through breast milk during the nursing period after delivery. The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare calls for pregnant and lactating women to take 1.8g of EPA and DHA, compared to the usual 1.6g.

Omega-3 and Omega-6

In addition to omega-3 fatty acids, there are also omega-6 fatty acids, both of which are essential fatty acids. The word "essential" in essential fatty acids means that they cannot be produced by the human body and must be obtained from food or other sources. Omega-3 fatty acids were introduced earlier, and Omega-6 fatty acids are also considered to be nutrients that should be consumed appropriately. Omega-6 fatty acids are also considered to be a nutrient that should be consumed properly. Their potential benefits include reducing blood cholesterol and suppressing bad cholesterol. As a result, it is expected to prevent or improve heart disease and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. However, too much omega-6 fatty acids can interfere with the function of good cholesterol. It also contains the potential to trigger other disadvantages such as blood clotting and promotion of inflammation in the body. Omega-6 fatty acids are found in many familiar foods. Omega-6 fatty acids are found in many common household oils such as safflower oil and sesame oil, and are also used in many commercial foods such as snacks and lunchboxes, so it is highly likely that you are unknowingly consuming large amounts of these oils. Although omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids have different effects, they should be consumed in balance. The ideal balance is 1:4 or 1:5 omega-3 to omega-6. Too much omega-3 fatty acids can make the blood too thin and stop bleeding, while too much omega-6 fatty acids can cause blood to clot in the blood vessels. It's all about balance.

Omega-3 is often deficient.

I mentioned the ideal balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Compared to omega-6 fatty acids, omega-3 fatty acids are harder to get and people today tend to be especially deficient in them. Omega-6 fatty acids are found in common cooking oils, while omega-3 fatty acids are mainly found in blue fish. In order to get enough omega-3 fatty acids, you need to eat fish dishes every day. In today's diet, where people prefer processed foods and meat dishes to traditional fish dishes, we inevitably get more than enough omega-6 fatty acids, but not enough omega-3 fatty acids. As you might imagine considering the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, a lack of omega-3 fatty acids increases the risk of brain and nerve problems. An imbalance with an excess of only omega-6 fatty acids can cause the blood to become sluggish and clogged, and the blood vessels to age. You can see how important it is to consume omega-3 fatty acids because it can eventually lead to the risk of stroke and myocardial infarction.

To avoid a deficiency of omega-3

Since the body cannot produce it, the only way to avoid deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids is to consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. As I mentioned, omega-3 fatty acids are found in blue fish. Examples are fish like salmon, tuna, trout, sardines and saury. Ideally, you would like to include fish in your diet every day, as omega-3 fatty acids are not useful when taken in bulk and must be consumed daily. In addition to fish, other foods that provide omega-3 fatty acids include vegetable oils such as flaxseed oil, which is extracted from the flax seeds of the flax plant, and sesame oil, which is extracted from the seeds of the sesame plant, an annual plant in the Perilla family. You only need to take about one teaspoon of these oils per day, so it may be easier for those who find it difficult to eat fish every day. Both fish and vegetable oils are more effective when consumed in a way that takes into account the fact that omega-3 fatty acids are heat sensitive and easily oxidized. In the case of fish, you can get omega-3 fatty acids from boiled fish with little effect. Even if you grill fish, you may worry that the surface of the fish will be burnt and you will not be able to consume it properly, but this is not a problem because the fatty acids in the meat are not affected. Flaxseed oil and sesame oil are more susceptible to oxidation, so do not use them as cooking oils that are heated. You can add it to hot foods such as miso soup or soup, pour it over tofu or salad, or just drink it.

Ingredients in flaxseed oil� A: Lignans

Another typical health ingredient in flaxseed oil is lignans. Here are some of the benefits that can be expected from lignans and foods that are rich in them.

Antioxidant effects of lignans

Lignans are a type of plant polyphenol. One of the health benefits that can be expected from lignans is their antioxidant properties. Just as an apple discolors if left unpeeled, or a metal gradually rusts, the human body oxidizes. Just as metal gradually rusts, our bodies also oxidize. Just by breathing in oxygen, we are actually oxidizing. In addition to breathing, other causes include ultraviolet rays, radiation, air pollution, and lifestyle factors such as drinking, smoking, and eating a diet rich in additives. So is daily stress. If the body is oxidized more than necessary, it is said to cause problems such as aging of blood vessels, rough skin, lifestyle-related diseases, and increased risk of developing cancer. We should try to live a life that suppresses oxidation. One to three percent of the oxygen taken into the body through respiration is activated and becomes what is called reactive oxygen species. Reactive oxygen species have the merit of defeating viruses and bacteria in the body, but if too many are accumulated, their oxidizing power can attack even the healthy cells in the body. The antioxidant properties of lignans help to reduce this oxidation.

Functions other than antioxidant effects

Lignans have other expected benefits besides antioxidant effects.

Antiestrogen action

Since oxidation of the body is considered to be one of the causes of cancer, the antioxidant properties of lignans are expected to prevent cancer, especially in the case of breast, uterine, and prostate cancers, but also shrink the size of the cancer. The reason for the development of these cancers is believed to be the high level of estrogen, a female hormone, in the blood and the intake of fat. It is also believed that the early stages of cancer grow under the influence of estrogen. Lignans are believed to have anti-estrogenic properties, which is why they are expected to reduce estrogen levels, leading to cancer shrinkage.

Anti-inflammatory effect

Lignans inhibit the secretion of substances that activate platelets. This means that it can stop the blood from clotting. This platelet-activating substance is believed to be caused by inflammatory reactions, so lignans can be said to have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammatory reactions are part of the immune system and are meant to protect the body. While it is a very important function, an overreaction can lead to allergies and pain in the affected area.

Hormone balance regulation function

Lignans are converted in the intestines into a substance called human lignans. Since this has a similar structure to the female hormone estrogen, lignans are said to help balance hormones. As mentioned earlier, it suppresses estrogen, which is expected to reduce uterine cancer and other diseases, but it also regulates balance, suppressing estrogen levels when they are high and supplementing them when they are low. Since estrogen levels decrease rapidly after menopause in women, lignans are attracting attention for their ability to compensate for this.

Effect on obesity

There is a good hormone called adiponectin that is secreted by fat cells, and when lignans are applied to the body, this adiponectin increases in the blood. When lignans are applied to the body, adiponectin increases in the bloodstream. Adiponectin is involved in the metabolism of sugar and fat, and lowers blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Adiponectin also has a fat-burning effect, so in addition to preventing obesity, it can be expected to have an effect on diabetes and metabolic syndrome. It is also said to be effective in repairing and dilating blood vessels, and is said to be effective against vascular diseases and arteriosclerosis.

Foods rich in lignans

Lignans can be obtained from plants, but they are especially abundant in woody plants whose trunks become woody and grow thick. Here are three representative examples.

Sesame (seeds)

Sesame seeds contain an antioxidant called gomalignan. Sesame seeds have a hard outer skin, so if you eat them as they are, you will not be able to consume the gomalignans and they will come out undigested. To get the best amount of gomalignan, it is recommended to grind the sesame seeds to break down the outer skin. You may have heard more about sesamin than gommalignan. In addition to sesamin, sesaminol, sesamolin, and sesamol are other members of the gomarignan family.

Chinese plum

Ume contains ume lignans. Since ume lignans cannot be absorbed efficiently when eaten as is, it is best to soak them in honey or shochu, or take them as ume extract or ume syrup. Ume lignans can be expected to help prevent influenza and stomach cancer, and prevent arteriosclerosis by thinning the blood. This is one of the reasons why dried plums are said to be "a grain a day and no need for a doctor.

Flaxseed

Flaxseeds are rich in amarignan. A grain of flaxseed contains 1.2% amarignan, twice as much as sesame seeds, compared to 0.6% for gomarignan. This is one of the highest levels among various foods. Lignans provide the various health benefits we have mentioned so far. It is important to take lignans on a daily basis, rather than taking a large amount at one time. By including flaxseed oil in your daily diet, you can be sure that you are actively consuming it.

Health Benefits of Flaxseed Oil

Now that we have introduced two of the major ingredients in flaxseed oil, what effects can we expect from flaxseed oil?

Skin-loss effect

Not only flaxseed oil, but the oil that is taken into the body becomes the main component of cell membranes. Cell membranes serve to protect cells, and the better the quality of the oil that makes up the cell membrane, the better the quality of the cell membrane will be. Flaxseed oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, and cell membranes with high levels of omega-3 fatty acids are very flexible and strong. Flaxseed oil also helps to eliminate unwanted wastes smoothly. The skin shows this effect most quickly. Therefore, skin that benefits from omega-3 fatty acids retains its elasticity and is able to lock in the nutrients it needs, which helps prevent skin problems such as dryness, reduces roughness, and makes the skin firm and beautiful. On the other hand, if you are deficient in omega-3 fatty acids, your cell membranes will lose their flexibility, which tends to lead to problems such as dryness and pimples. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the lignans in flaxseed oil are also beneficial to the skin. One of the most common causes of skin problems is allergies. If you have an allergic constitution, you may develop atopic dermatitis due to the deterioration of the skin's barrier function. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects are very effective against such allergic inflammation.

Dieting effects

When we hear about diet, we tend to think that we should avoid oil, but we should rather consume good quality oil. Flaxseed oil is one such oil that many celebrities and entertainers are said to use. Alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid contained in flaxseed oil, is converted into DHA and EPA in the body, which can be expected to increase good cholesterol and improve neutral fat metabolism. In addition to the omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseed oil also contains linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid, and oleic acid, an omega-9 fatty acid. Linoleic acid is effective in building muscles and preventing obesity, while oleic acid is effective in preventing the accumulation of visceral fat by reducing bad cholesterol. Flaxseed oil, with its efficient intake of these ingredients, is effective in preventing obesity, leading to a body that is less likely to gain weight.

Prevention of arteriosclerosis

I introduced that alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid contained in flaxseed oil, changes into DHA in the body and works to reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol. When bad cholesterol is high, arteriosclerosis tends to progress and the risk of myocardial infarction and stroke increases. Since alpha-linolenic acid reduces bad cholesterol and increases good cholesterol, and since good cholesterol also works to collect cholesterol from the walls of blood vessels, arteriosclerosis can be prevented.

Lower risk of heart disease

Alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid, also reduces inflammatory reactions. Inflammation is one of the hallmarks of heart disease and other chronic diseases. alpha-linolenic acid is said to block the formation of compounds that promote inflammation, and studies have shown that it can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by suppressing vascular inflammation and activating vascular endothelial function. Oleic acid, one of the omega-9 fatty acids found in flaxseed oil, is also said to be effective in preventing heart disease. This is because oleic acid helps to maintain good cholesterol and prevent the increase of bad cholesterol. The omega-3 fatty acids and lignans in flaxseed oil also help to thin the blood and prevent it from clotting, so it can be expected to help prevent heart attacks.

Relieves constipation and stops diarrhea

It is said that there are more than 100 kinds of bacteria in the intestines, and about 100 trillion of them. There are good bacteria that have a positive effect on the body, bad bacteria that have a negative effect on the body, and opportunistic bacteria that belong to neither of the two groups. These bacteria live together in the intestines, and are called intestinal flora because they resemble various flowers growing in clusters. When the intestinal bacteria are out of balance, symptoms such as constipation and diarrhea occur. The omega-3 fatty acids contained in flaxseed oil help to balance the intestinal flora and avoid such risks. Omega-3 fatty acids are also said to have antidiarrheal properties. This is due to the omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the small intestine and support recovery. Flaxseed oil is also a rich source of dietary fiber. Moreover, flaxseed oil contains a good balance of soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber prevents toxins from entering the body and reduces bad bacteria, while insoluble fiber removes toxins, increases stool volume, and makes it softer and easier to pass. Flaxseed oil is expected to do both of these things.

Depression and autism

We have introduced various ways in which flaxseed oil is good for the body, but in addition to the body, it may also have benefits for the brain and mental health. The omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseed oil have an important impact on the development and function of the brain. If you are deficient in omega-3 fatty acids, your brain will not get the major fatty acids it needs to function properly. The synapses used to transmit information may become defective and nerve cells may deteriorate. This is thought to be one of the causes of autism, and results have been seen in the U.S. when omega-3 fatty acids were given to autistic children, resulting in improved language, learning, and social skills. Neurological inflammation is often seen as a sign of autism, and the anti-inflammatory effect of omega-3 fatty acids may have helped to suppress autism. In 2015, a study was published suggesting that omega-3 fatty acids may have an effect on depressive symptoms in adults. The study ultimately concluded that the evidence was lacking and could not be ruled out as being effective, but in 2018, a new study was published on the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on anxiety symptoms. This was done by a team of researchers at the National Cancer Center, who found that those who consumed omega-3 fatty acids had fewer anxiety symptoms than those who did not. Mental health is an inseparable part of modern life, and I look forward to further research on this issue.

Difference from Sesame Oil

Along with flaxseed oil, sesame oil has been attracting attention as a food that can supplement nutrients that are lacking in today's diet. Let's compare the effects and characteristics of each.

What is sesame oil?

Sesame oil is also known as perilla oil or perilla oil. As the name implies, e-goma oil is extracted from the e-goma plant, which is an annual plant in the shiso family. The name "egoma" tends to conjure up images of sesame seeds, but sesame seeds have nothing to do with it. Egoma itself is thought to be the oldest oil plant in Japan, as traces of its cultivation have been found in ruins dating back 5,500 to 10,000 years ago. In Fukushima, Iwate and Miyagi prefectures in the Tohoku region, as well as in parts of Gifu prefecture, the custom of eating sesame leaves still remains. There is a legend that if you eat them, you will live 10 years longer, so they are sometimes called "juyen". Like flaxseed oil, sesame oil is extracted by cold pressing. It does not have the refreshing aroma of shiso leaves or sesame leaves, but it does have a slight shiso flavor. It is not peculiar and easy to eat, and adds richness and mildness to dishes.

Benefits of Flaxseed Oil and Sesame Oil

I have introduced various omega-3 fatty acids, alpha-linolenic acid, as the source of the health benefits of flaxseed oil, but sesame oil contains it as well as flaxseed oil. Flaxseed oil also contains alpha-linolenic acid, which is an omega-3 fatty acid. Both oils contain about 60% of this fatty acid, and as a result, both oils have similar health benefits. In addition to alpha-linolenic acid, sesame oil also contains rosmarinic acid and luteolin, which have a variety of beneficial effects, including cholesterol reduction, weight loss, anti-anxiety and anti-allergy effects, memory and learning effects, healthy skin, healthy joints, and prevention and improvement of dementia. The following are just a few of the benefits.

Precautions for handling flaxseed oil and sesame oil

For both flaxseed oil and sesame oil, there are some things to keep in mind in order to get the most out of them. Alpha-linolenic acid, an important ingredient in both oils, is easily oxidized. Therefore, avoid contact with light and air, which can cause oxidation, as much as possible to prevent the oil from deteriorating. If you buy a large amount at one time, it will oxidize before you finish using it, so it is better to buy a relatively small, usable size. Before opening the package, store it in a cool, dark place. After opening the package, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. There are also some precautions to be taken when consuming them, one of which is not to heat them. There are also some precautions to be taken when consuming them, one of which is to not heat them, as they are sensitive to heat. Also, do not consume large amounts of oil every day, no matter how good it is for you. As both oils are oils, even a teaspoon of them contains about 40 calories. A good rule of thumb is about 4 grams per day for adults (about 1 teaspoon), 3 grams for children, and 2 grams for infants. It is said that flax oil is more suitable for Western food, while sesame oil is more suitable for Japanese food. Flax oil is more suitable for Western cuisine, while sesame oil is more suitable for Japanese cuisine. Sesame oil can also be used in dressings like olive oil to take advantage of the flavor of shiso. It is best to consume sesame oil in a way that is easy to eat according to your preference.

How to Choose Flaxseed Oil

Many of you may want to try using flaxseed oil right away. So what kind of flaxseed oil should you choose among the various types?

Choose the right oil for you.

Just because oil is good for you doesn't mean that you should take it blindly. The first thing you want to think about is what kind of oil is right for you. Think about what nutrients you should be supplementing with by looking back at your normal eating habits and physical concerns. For example, if you are concerned about your high blood pressure, rarely eat fish, or eat out all the time, flaxseed oil may be an effective oil for you. However, if you usually don't take any oil at all in the first place, or if your skin is cracked and rough, then there are probably other oils that you need besides flaxseed oil. Choose the right oil to take based on what nutrients you need to supplement right now. It is also important to have a balance of the oils you take. If you only take this oil because it is good for you, your nutrients will be unbalanced and you will have disadvantages in terms of your health. For example, coconut oil has recently become popular and talked about among women. Coconut oil, for example, is very popular among women these days. Although it is rich in saturated fatty acids and has many beauty benefits, too much of it can lead to excessive energy, increased blood viscosity, and difficulty in flowing through blood vessels, which in turn increases the risk of atherosclerosis. I would like to think about what to take and how to take it, after suppressing what characteristics each oil around us has. Typical salad oil and sesame oil are. They contain high amounts of omega-6 fatty acids, which are important essential fatty acids for the body, such as stopping bleeding. Olive oil contains as much as 76% omega-9 fatty acids, which can help reduce bad cholesterol. Coconut oil, which I mentioned earlier, contains 91% saturated fatty acids, which are an important source of energy for the body. However, salad oil, sesame oil, and olive oil are said to be sufficient in our daily diet even if we do not consciously consume them. In contrast, omega-3 fatty acids are said to be overwhelmingly lacking, so it is important to actively consume oils that contain omega-3 fatty acids, such as flaxseed oil.

How to identify the right products

So, what criteria should you use when choosing a flaxseed oil product? Here are a few points to consider.

No additives

Flaxseed oil is an oil that oxidizes easily. For this reason, some oils contain preservatives and other ingredients to reduce oxidation. When choosing a flaxseed oil, you want to check the ingredients and choose one that does not contain any additives.

JAS organic certification

Organic JAS certification is a certification mark that is attached only to products that have passed the quality and labeling standards set by the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. Being certified means that there are no safety issues, so even those who are concerned can buy with confidence. If you are concerned about the safety of flaxseed oil, you can buy it.

Cold-pressed method

Omega-3 fatty acids, an important nutritional component of flaxseed oil, are sensitive to heat. Flaxseed oil is cold-pressed, which means that the oil is extracted slowly at low temperature, so that the nutritional value of flaxseed can be obtained as it is. Flaxseed oil also has the original flavor of flaxseed. As flaxseed oil has become popular and a large amount of products are being produced, some flaxseed oil is extracted at high temperature. One of the criteria for selecting flaxseed oil is whether or not it is cold-pressed.

Light-shielding storage containers

Flaxseed oil is susceptible to oxidation, which can be caused by light and heat. To prevent oxidation as much as possible, choose a container that is light-shielded to prevent the contents from being exposed to light. Even if you buy linseed oil in a clear container, you should transfer it to a light-shielding container after purchase and store it in a place where it will not be exposed to light.

Flaxseed oil taste and how to eat it

Here are some of the actual flavors and recommended ways to consume them.

What does it taste like?

Flaxseed oil has a unique bitter taste. Some people may not like to eat it as it is because of its strong taste. However, by devising a way to eat it, the unique taste can be made less bothersome, and since the standard intake for an adult is about one teaspoon per day, it is safe to say that it has little effect on the taste of the food you eat with it. Rather, the unique peculiarity that can be felt a little may accentuate the dish and enhance the taste. The bitterness and peculiarity of flaxseed oil can be said to be evidence of its high nutrient content. The bitterness and peculiarity of flaxseed oil is a characteristic of cold-pressed flaxseed oil, which can extract the whole nutrients of flaxseed. On the other hand, flaxseed oil that has almost no taste or aroma is likely to be extracted by a chemical process, and the nutrients are likely to be less promising. However, since the manufacturing process is more advanced than in the past, there are flaxseed oils that do not have the distinctive smell and taste of cold-pressed flaxseed oil. The taste varies from product to product, so it would be good if you can find the taste you like after choosing flaxseed oil made by cold pressing method.

Way of eating

As I have mentioned several times, the key to taking flaxseed oil is to take it as is, without heating. Here are a few examples of how you can eat it.

Eat as you go

Flaxseed oil can be easily consumed by simply pouring it over your favorite dishes. If you put it on salads with dressing, the unique bitterness of flaxseed oil will be softened by the taste of the dressing. Flaxseed oil can also be served over cold noodles such as somen or zaru soba, as the noodle soup softens the taste and makes it easier to eat. To make the most of the flavor of flaxseed oil that goes well with Western-style dishes, I recommend pouring it over cold tofu. You will enjoy a different flavor. Alpha-linolenic acid is sensitive to heat, but you don't have to worry too much about it in hot dishes and drinks.

Mix and eat

The method of mixing it with food or seasonings is just as easy to try as the method of pouring it on. If you are not particularly comfortable with the taste of flaxseed oil, you can start with natto. The strong smell and peculiarity of natto itself will make the peculiarity of flaxseed oil less bothersome. You can also use it as a substitute for salad oil in marinades and dipping sauces, or mix it with cold pasta as a substitute for olive oil. For Japanese style dishes, try mixing a little into soaked or dressed dishes.

Eat as is

If you like the taste of flaxseed oil itself, the easiest way to eat it is to transfer it directly to a spoon. It is good if you can continue to take it every day as if you were taking a supplement. Some products have a particularly strong taste, some have a less bitter taste, and some have a mild taste. Why don't you find your favorite flavor and try tasting flaxseed oil itself every day?

Foods and dishes that go well together

Here are some easy, nutritionally compatible ways to eat.

With tofu

Tofu contains isoflavones, which are famous for their similarity to female hormones, lecithin, which promotes lipid metabolism, and saponin, which supports active oxygen and prevents fat accumulation. The addition of alpha-linolenic acid makes it an even more balanced health food. Put the tofu in a bowl with a little salt sprinkled on top, and pour about 1-2 teaspoons of flaxseed oil over it. Top with condiments such as scallions, dried bonito flakes, ginger, etc. as desired and enjoy!

For salad

Flaxseed oil goes very well with salads. Cut up your favorite vegetables into bite-sized pieces and toss them with a teaspoon or two of flaxseed oil, then add wine vinegar to the mix. Add salt and pepper to taste. The acidity of the vinegar mellows out the peculiarities of the flaxseed oil and makes it easier to eat. The combination of oil and vinegar also enhances the absorption of nutrients. In addition to vegetables such as lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers, you can top it with various other ingredients to make it an even more nutritious salad. Add whatever you like, such as quinoa and kale, which are considered superfoods, almonds, which are rich in magnesium and help prevent high blood sugar, and boiled eggs, chopped chopped vegetables, and cheese as protein.

For smoothies

By combining it with a variety of fruits and vegetables, you can easily get a lot of nutrients. You can use different combinations of flaxseed oil in your daily breakfast. The bitterness of the vegetables and the sweetness of the fruits will make the peculiarity of flaxseed oil less noticeable. For example, combine 1/2 bunch of salad spinach, 1/2 apple, 300 ml of soy milk, and 1-2 teaspoons of flaxseed oil in a blender. Green and yellow vegetables such as spinach can help detoxify the body, act as an antioxidant, and lower cholesterol levels, while fruits rich in vitamin C can help beautify the skin and protect it from UV rays.

Typical Flaxseed Oil Products

There are many different types of flaxseed oil available in the stores, but their nutrients and origin vary depending on the manufacturer. Here are three typical products.

Organic Flaxseed Oil

This is organic edible flaxseed oil from Omega Nutrition, an organic oil manufacturer in the United States. Flaxseed oil tends to oxidize easily, but the company thoroughly cuts out light, heat, and oxygen, which can cause oxidation, in the entire process from manufacturing to shipping. The oil extracted from organically grown flax has been delivered to users in a state that maintains its quality without deteriorating. The company is well known for its thorough quality control, and has a repeat customer rate of 70% in the Rakuten market.

Nippon-Amani Oil

Nippon Flour Milling, commonly known as Nipun, is engaged in a wide range of businesses, including flour milling, food products such as oil, dried noodles, and frozen foods, and health care. They market Nipun flaxseed oil, and are also focusing on various other flaxseed products such as flaxseed grains, dressings, and supplements. Nipun flaxseed oil is made from only golden flaxseeds, which are grown in Canada and called golden seeds. These flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and have been endorsed for their nutrients. The double-layered bottle is designed to keep the air out of the bottle. This is also a perfect way to prevent oxidation.

Nisshin Amani Oil

Nissin, a large company that has always been a leader in the Japanese cooking oil industry, including the sale of Japan's first salad oil, also offers flaxseed oil. The recommended daily intake of alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid contained in flaxseed oil, is about 2 grams per day for adults, but Nissin flaxseed oil contains 2.5 grams per teaspoon. Taking just one teaspoon of Nissin Amani Oil every day is enough to consume the nutritional components of flaxseed oil, making it a great product for beginners who have difficulty finding the right amount.

How to Store Flaxseed Oil

Even if you have purchased flaxseed oil, if you do not store it properly, you will not be able to get its true nutrients. Here are some tips on how to store flaxseed oil.

Correct storage methods

There are a few things you can do to use up flaxseed oil within the expiration date to keep it fresh and nutritious. The first one is to seal it. Exposure to air will increase the oxidation of flaxseed oil, so close the lid tightly as soon as possible after use. Depending on the container it comes in, it may expand as the temperature rises, causing the lid to loosen. It's a good idea to check it from time to time. Next is the storage location. Store them in a cool, dark place, away from high temperatures and light. It's best to avoid places near a gas stove or in direct sunlight or fluorescent light. It's a small detail, but even leaving linseed oil in a hot car on the way home after buying it will cause it to deteriorate. As for storage, many people may think that the refrigerator is a good place to store it. However, many flaxseed oil products say that it is not necessary to store it in the refrigerator. There is no need to store flaxseed oil in the refrigerator as long as you take care of the temperature and light. In particular, it is best not to put it in the chilled room of the refrigerator, where the temperature is set near 0℃ in order to cool the food to near freezing temperature. Flaxseed oil loses its quality when the temperature drops below 0℃. If the flaxseed oil becomes cloudy as a result of being stored at a low temperature, you do not need to worry about it when you eat it. This is because the white cloudiness comes from the raw material and is not harmful. However, if the originally clear oil becomes cloudy, it means that it is not suitable for storage. It is best to find another suitable place to store it. As a side note, in addition to the storage method, you should also be careful about how long you keep the oil before using it up. Flaxseed oil can be stored for up to a year, but once opened, it is recommended to use it up within a month or two in order to keep it tasty and eat it before it loses its nutrients.

What happens if you store it incorrectly?

The reason why storage is so important is because flaxseed oil that has deteriorated due to poor storage can be risky to consume. When flaxseed oil is oxidized, its original nutritional components are transformed into trans-fatty acids. Trans-fatty acids are said to have a negative impact on the flexibility and elasticity of blood vessels. This causes problems such as atherosclerosis, which is caused by the loss of flexibility and elasticity of the arteries. Do not consume oxidized flaxseed oil. Even if you are careful about how you store it, it may oxidize faster than expected. To check if it is oxidized, smell it. Oxidized linseed oil has a distinct smell that is different from when it was purchased. If you smell it and find that it smells even a little strange, you should dispose of it. When you buy flaxseed oil, be sure to smell it when you open the package so that you can notice the oxidation. There are also some things to look out for when purchasing flaxseed oil in regards to oxidation. If the area where the product is displayed is well-lit, oxidation may have occurred even before the package is opened. You want to choose products that are displayed in a dark place, such as the bottom or back of a shelf. Also, check the expiration date. If the product is unopened and already close to the expiration date, it may have started to oxidize. As a rough guide from production to expiration date, it depends on the storage container, but it is about 2 years for cans or in light-shielding colored glass jars, about 1.5 years for colorless and transparent glass jars, and about 1 year for plastic containers. Please use this as a reference when purchasing.

Products using flaxseed oil

Flaxseed oil has a lot of health benefits and I really want to make it a habit, but I think it is hard to get used to taking oil every day, even if it is just a teaspoon. So, here are some products that contain flaxseed oil, but not as an oil.

Dressings and mayonnaise

As I briefly mentioned when I introduced Nippon Flour Milling's flaxseed oil, various companies sell a variety of dressings and mayonnaise products containing flaxseed oil. Dressings come in a wide variety of flavors, including Japanese, sesame, Caesar, black vinegar, and salted lemon. Of course, you can make your own at home by adding vinegar and salt and pepper, but it is nice to know that you can easily enjoy a variety of flavors by adopting these products. Mayonnaise is a difficult product to make because of flaxseed oil's susceptibility to oxidation. Even so, it seems that many companies are researching ways to add more flaxseed oil to their products. Kewpie mayonnaise, famous for its mayonnaise, contains as much as 30% flaxseed oil, thanks to its unique antioxidant technology. Even with such a high ratio, you can enjoy the full-bodied taste of mayonnaise, and the recommended daily intake is 2.6g of alpha-linolenic acid per 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise. For those who are not accustomed to using oils other than cooking oils that are heated, such as in stir-fries, or those who are not confident about how to store them, why not try this as an easy way to introduce them?

Supplement

Not everyone cooks every day, and one way to consume flaxseed oil regardless of cooking is through supplements. Flaxseed oil supplements can be taken regardless of how you cook, when you cook, or where you cook, and they are easy to take because you just drink them with water. Flaxseed oil supplements vary from product to product in terms of whether they are capsules or pills, and what they contain. You want to choose the one that is right for you, taking into account your lifestyle and age. Here are some supplements that use flaxseed oil.

Flaxseed oil supplement (Flax Village / Flax Renaissance Limited Liability Partnership)

Flaxseed oil is put directly into capsules, making this supplement similar to drinking flaxseed oil as it is. We use only 100% pure oil extracted from flaxseeds grown in Hokkaido without the use of pesticides, using the cold pressing method. The oil is not refined at all, and only the pure flaxseed oil is condensed, making it simple, safe, and secure. Since it is 100% pure oil, it is recommended to take it with plenty of water to avoid damaging the mucous membrane of the stomach.

Hokkaido flaxseed oil supplement (Yoshiki)

This is another 100% flaxseed oil supplement made from cold-pressed, pesticide-free flaxseed from Hokkaido. No additives are used, and the pure oil itself is packaged in soft capsules. Ikitsuki has a store in Sapporo, and used to sell local specialties in Sapporo City. However, they later decided to make their products available on the Internet in order to promote their local products nationwide. The raw material, flax, seems to be grown by genuine contract farmers. The only place in Japan where flax is grown is Hokkaido, and there are not many supplements made from domestic flax. If you are particular about domestic production, this is a product you should check out.

Real Supplement Flaxseed Oil (Dinos Cecile Inc.)

This is another supplement that contains flaxseed oil condensed into one tablet. It is made from 100% flaxseed oil, which is slowly extracted from organically grown flaxseeds at low temperatures. More than 50% of the fatty acids contained in the oil are alpha-linolenic acid, which is an omega-3 fatty acid, as well as linoleic acid and oleic acid. One tablet of flaxseed oil per day provides 300mg of flaxseed oil, which is about half of the amount that the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW) states should be taken daily. There are no synthetic colors, preservatives, or preservatives in the product, and the product is quality controlled at a pharmaceutical factory, which gives you peace of mind. It is an easy supplement to start with for those who want to try flaxseed oil for the first time.

AMANI Soy & Flux (Suntory Wellness)

This supplement is sold by Suntory Wellness as a supplement for feminine ingredients. It is especially recommended for women in their 40s or older who are concerned about hormonal imbalance, and is more of a beauty supplement than a health supplement. The main ingredients are flax lignan, a rare ingredient found in only 1% of flaxseed grains, and soy isoflavone. 2 grains per day costs 60 yen per day. This is a great supplement to try if your hair and skin are lacking in luster and elasticity. You can try it for 30 days, which is the cycle of your skin, and then purchase a subscription, which is an easy way to get started.

DHA & EPA + Vitamin D (Ajinomoto)

Ajinomoto, whose motto is "safe and secure quality control," sells supplements to support fish deficiency. It is said that the daily intake of DHA, EPA, and omega-3 essential fatty acids is 2,000mg, which when converted into food amounts to, for example, about 800g of tuna sashimi or 127g of bonito tataki. One of the characteristics of our modern diet is that we do not consume enough blue fish, but it is very difficult to consume such a large amount every day. However, it is difficult to consume this amount of fish every day, especially for those who are older and have calorie restriction due to illness. Vitamin D is also a nutrient that is normally produced in the body through exposure to ultraviolet rays, but due to UV countermeasures, it is often in short supply. With this supplement, you can take 300 grams of DHA, 100 grams of EPA, and 100 grams of alpha-linolenic acid just by taking 4 tablets a day with water. At just 17 yen per day, it's easy on the wallet, too.

Flaxseed oil for pets

There are also products that use flaxseed oil as a pet oil, although from a slightly different perspective. Omega Nutrition, an organic oil manufacturer in the U.S., which was introduced in the section on typical flaxseed oil products, has been researching, developing, and marketing supplemental oils for pets, based on the results of various medical studies that have shown that omega-3 fatty acids are also effective for animals. Other companies sell pet oils to supplement the nutrients lacking in pet food alone and to keep pets healthy. However, when feeding flaxseed oil to your pet, please consult your veterinarian first and do not make an amateur judgment. Consult your veterinarian before feeding your pet.

Summary

Flax is becoming more and more widely recognized and known than ever before. I hope you have understood the appeal and health benefits of flax. As a plant, as a fiber, and as a food, I hope you will try to incorporate it into your life little by little.