Flaxseed oil offers a variety of healthy benefits. It is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are thought to help with the inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases. To make pure flaxseed oil at home, use a hot or cold press to extract the oil from flaxseeds. Or, make whole flaxseed oil by boiling the seeds in water to release their oils. Because it’s prepared with water, though, it is diluted so it isn’t a true oil.
Preparing Whole Flaxseed Oil:
- Boil the Water: Add 2 cups (473 ml) of water to a small saucepan, and place it on the stove. Heat it on high until it comes to a boil, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Add the Seeds and Lower the Heat: Once the water is boiling, mix 1 to 2 tablespoons (10 to 20 g) of whole flax seeds into the water. Reduce the stove’s heat to medium-low, and let the seeds cook.
- Cook the Seeds: Continue to cook the seeds for about 8 minutes until the mixture thickens. With the pan uncovered and the heat on medium-low, let the seeds boil in the water. The water should become thick and glossy, and you may also notice streaks that look somewhat like egg whites when the oil is ready.
- Cool the Mixture: When the seeds are finished cooking, turn off the heat and remove the pan from the stove. Let it cool on the countertop for 20 to 30 minutes. There’s no need to strain the seeds from the mixture after it’s cooled. They will actually break down during the cooking process, so they soften and release their oils. However, if you prefer to remove the seeds, you can run the oil through a sieve after it’s cooled.
- Store the Oil: Transfer it to a jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. When the oil is cool enough to handle, pour it into an airtight container. Close it securely, and place it in the refrigerator for storage. It should stay fresh for up to a week and a half.
Benefits of Making Your Own Flaxseed Oil
Making your own flaxseed oil from farm-fresh flaxseeds from Goldenflax.com ensures that you are getting the highest quality oil without any additives or preservatives. Using fresh, non-GMO, 100% natural flax seeds guarantees that you’re consuming oil that is pure and rich in nutrients. Goldenflax.com’s flax seeds are not sprayed with fungicides or insecticides, so you can be confident in the purity of the oil you produce.
Homemade flaxseed oil retains all its health benefits, including being rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation. Additionally, flaxseed oil supports healthy skin, hair, and nails, and can aid in digestion. By making your own flaxseed oil, you also ensure that it is free from any unwanted chemicals or processing residues, providing a cleaner and more natural product for your health and wellness.
By using Goldenflax.com’s farm-fresh flaxseeds, you’re not only supporting your health but also promoting sustainable farming practices. Enjoy the full spectrum of health benefits and the peace of mind that comes with knowing exactly what goes into your flaxseed oil.