Flex those flaxseeds for an extra dose of nutrition

This seed ties together fabric, food and fine art.

- NANDITA IYER

Flaxseed is one of the oldest cultivated crops in the world. Evidence of its use dates back over 6,000 years, with origins in the Fertile Crescent region in West Asia and North Africa. The plant's stalks were initially grown for their fibres, used to produce linen fabric, one of the earliest textiles in human history. Ancient Egyptians prized linen for clothing and burial shrouds. The seeds, long considered a byproduct, were eventually discovered to be a nutritious addition to diets.

Flaxseed oil, also known as linseed oil, has been used since medieval times and played an important role during the Renaissance when oil paints became the medium of choice for artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Rembrandt. Its availability and versatility made it an essential material in Europe’s artistic traditions.

Cut to the early 2000s—my early blogging days were full of discoveries. How to use the internet to publish my kitchen experiments, connect with like-minded people from around the world, and also learning cooking tips and tricks from fellow bloggers.