What’s the difference between Flax Seed, Linseed or Flaxseed Oil? 

Linseed and flax seed are the exact same thing. Depending on what part of the world you are in, you might refer to the product as either linseed or flaxseed. 

Question: Is there a disparity in the nutritional advantages for horses between ground stabilized flax seed (linseed) and flaxseed (linseed) oil? 

Answer: Flaxseed oil, also known as linseed oil, offers substantial nutritional benefits for horses due to its natural abundance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Flaxseed oil is derived by pressing the seeds of the flax plant and boasts a notably high oil content. 

The omega-3 to omega-6 ratio in linseed oil is 4:1, mirroring the same proportion found in fresh pasture grass. This natural balance of omega oils differs from preserved forages like hay, where omega-6 oil levels tend to dominate. For stabled horses, supplementing with flaxseed oil can rectify the omega-3 to omega-6 imbalance often associated with limited pasture access which is common in the Middle East region. Omega-3 essential fatty acids play a vital role in managing inflammatory conditions, supporting joint health, and promoting a healthy coat in horses. 

Ground stabilized flax seed is crafted by milling the seeds of the flaxseed plant, retaining all parts of the seeds, resulting in a product high in both oil and fibre content. The omega-3 to omega-6 equilibrium remains intact in ground flax seed. However, this product contains relatively less oil compared to pure linseed or Kentucky Karron Oil, our oil supplement for horses. Unless stabilized, the oils in ground flax seed can become rancid quite rapidly. Stabilized ground linseed typically has a shelf life of approximately six months. 

Foran Equine offers a high-quality linseed oil emulsion called Kentucky Karron Oil. Emulsification enhances the shelf life and palatability of linseed oil, while also improving the bioavailability of both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. This means that more of these fatty acids are absorbed and utilized by the horse’s body. Kentucky Karron Oil boasts a shelf life of 18 months.