Linseed preparation query

[Georgie1234]

I purchased some raw linseed to prepare for my horse, but I have never done this before and have some questions for nutritionists or vets or whomever might ahve an answer

1) Does the crushing of the seed release the poison? I had thought that boiling would make the seeds explode and thereby release the gaseous poison. However I boiled the seeds for about an hour and they still have not opened.

2) Why after boiling for a few minutes do you have to simmer for hours. Is this to remove the toxins or to get the seeds to absorb water or to make a jelly?

3) Would it be possible to put the seeds in a processor, crush them and then to boil? Would this facilitate the process?

Thanks for your help!

 

[turkana]

I soak mine overnight & then either add to already boiling barley for around an hour or if I'm not adding it to barley I just put it in the microwave for around 20 minutes.

The seeds are still whole just swimming around in slime, be careful not to let it boil over as it's like phlem!

I know somebody who feeds it raw but grinds it in a coffee grinder with no problems but I've never done it.

It is an acquired taste for some horses so it's worth introducing it slowly.

 

[ISHmad]

Next time I'd just buy the micronised linseed from Charnwood Mills. Used to boil linseed years ago but couldn't be doing with the faffing around now. (Did used to really like the smell though).

 

[Mike007]

Linseed is normaly boiled or soaked to split the husk of the seed,not because it is supposedly poisonous.It can be fed ground and unsoaked /cooked.Also grinding it speeds up the soaking process if you want to do that.

 

[Tnavas]

Grind in a coffee grinder fresh daily to get all the best goodies from it - Omega oil for joints and for shiny coats.

Quantity is the key to the poison thing - 1 cup daily freshly ground is fine - madam in my avatar has been eating it like that for many years and is definately much alive.

If you want to cook it - bring to boil with plenty of water and then simmer for 20 mins until the mix turns jelly like - at this point the seeds have opened. There is no need to soak or boil relentlessly for hours.