A slippery seed mucilage used for light hold and curl definition, and as a moisturising film. No health effects.
Soaking or extracting flaxseed releases a gel (mucilage) that forms a flexible film on hair. It gives soft hold and helps curls clump together, and in skin products it acts as a light humectant.
There is no clinical evidence for health benefits of topical flaxseed extract. Its effects are cosmetic (hold, softness).