Flax (Linum usitatissimum) is a food and fiber crop. Flaxseeds are a good source of dietary fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, including alpha-linolenic acid. Flaxseeds also contain phytoestrogens called lignans, which are similar to the hormone estrogen. The fiber in flaxseed is found in the seed coat.

Flax is a flowering plant with many diverse uses and has been around for thousands of years. The seeds have been used for food, food supplements and oil. The fibers of this ancient plant have been used to make cloth, rope and paper.