The dried ripe seed of Linum usitatissimum (family Linaceae), flax, the fiber of which is used in the manufacture of linen; an infusion was used as a demulcent in catarrhal affections of the respiratory and urogenital tracts, and the ground seeds are used in making poultices. SYN: flaxseed. [G. linon, flax]
- l. oil a fatty oil expressed from the ripe seeds of Linum usitatissimum; used in the preparation of lime liniment. SYN: flaxseed oil.
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lin·seed (linґsēd) the dried ripe seed of Linum usitatissimum, used topically as a demulcent and emollient and orally as a laxative and as a source of the essential fatty acid α-linolenic acid. It may have antioxidant properties. The seeds are also processed to obtain linseed oil. Linseed contains the cyanogen linamarin, and cyanide poisoning may occur in animals eating large quantities of it. Called also flaxseed.Medical dictionary. 2011.