When taken by mouth: Flaxseed oil is likely safe for most adults. Supplements containing 2 grams of flaxseed oil daily have been used safely for up to 6 months. Higher doses of up to 24 grams daily have also been used safely for up to 7 weeks. These larger doses can cause side effects such as loose stools and diarrhea. Allergic reactions are also possible.
When applied to the skin: Flaxseed oil is possibly safe when used short-term. Flaxseed oil has been used safely on the wrist for up to 4 weeks.
When applied into the eye: Flaxseed oil is possibly safe when applied into the eye short-term. Eye drops containing flaxseed oil have been used safely for up to 3 months. Redness and itching may occur in some people.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy: Flaxseed oil is possibly safe when taken by mouth in doses of up to 2 grams daily for up to 6 weeks during pregnancy. But using flaxseed oil during the second or third trimester has been linked with an increased risk of giving birth prematurely.
Breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if flaxseed oil is safe to use when breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
