Title: Linseed
Additional Names: Flaxseed; linum
Literature References: Dried ripe seeds of Linum usitatissimum L., Linaceae. Constit. 30-40% oil, about 6% mucilage, about 25% proteins and linamarin. Brief review of medicinal uses: M. Wichtl, N. G. Bisset, Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals, English Ed. (CRC Press, Boca Raton, 1994) pp 298-300
Derivative Type: Linseed oil
Literature References: A drying oil obtained by expression of linseed. Constit. Glycerides of linolenic, linoleic, oleic, stearic, palmitic and myristic acids. Ref: T. P. Hilditch, The Chemical Constitution of Natural Fats (London, 3rd ed., 1956) p 175 sqq; E. W. Eckey, Vegetable Fats and Oils (New York, 1954) pp 535-547.
Properties: Yellowish liquid, peculiar odor, bland taste. Exposed to air it gradually thickens, becomes darker, and acquires a more pronounced odor and taste. d 0.925-0.935. nD40 1.4725-1.4750. Does not congeal above -20°. Sapon no.: 187-195. Iodine no. not below 170. Unsaponifiable matter not over 1.5%. Slightly sol in alcohol, miscible with chloroform, ether, petr ether, carbon disulfide, oil turpentine.
Index of refraction: nD40 1.4725-1.4750
Density: d 0.925-0.935
Use: Emollient. Oil in varnishes, paints, putty, oilcloths, linoleum, printing inks, artificial rubber, tracing cloth, tanning and enameling leather; applied to paper and fabrics to render them waterproof and tough.
Therap-Cat: Laxative; externally as poultice.
Therap-Cat-Vet: Laxative. |