Linum usitatissimum is a widely distributed plant that has a long history of traditional use as both an industrial oil and fiber crop. It is known as linseed in the United Kingdom, or flax in North America. For the last 15 years, there has been a steadily growing interest in the medicinal and nutraceutical value of flax, including experimental evidence for its use in the prevention of cancer and cardiovascular and kidney diseases.This volume is a comprehensive review of the genus covering all aspects of the taxonomy, chemistry, cultivation, pharmacology and commercial uses of flax. It describes the disease prevention potential of these plants. With material written by leading experts, Flax: The Genus Linum will be an invaluable reference for those interested in nutraceuticals, medicinal plants, pharmacy and agronomy.