Flaxseed oil is obtained from the seeds of the flax plant. When it is processed, the oil is first cold pressed from the seeds, which provides an edible oil for use with foods. The seeds are then hot pressed to produce an industrial oil and solvent, known as linseed oil, which is not edible. Flaxseed oil has a smooth, buttery flavor, which makes it ideal as a salad oil or as an addition to cooked vegetables. Since it has a very high level of omega-3 fatty acid (a polyunsaturated fat considered of value in reducing potential stroke and heart disease problems), flaxseed oil is most often used as a nutritional supplement rather than for cooking.
