Linseed oil has many different uses. It is used in a wide group of industries, with the oil playing significant role. The general uses of the oil are listed below:

Paint binder – One of the most common uses of linseed oil is that is a carrier in oil paint. It can also be added to paint to make it more transparent, fluid and glossy. In this role the linseed oil comes in varieties such as sun bleached, refined, sun thickened, alkali, cold pressed and polymerized.  

Putty – Linseed oil has its uses in glazing putty. This type of putty usually consists of linseed oil and chalk powder. It is often used a product to seal windows and cracks in walls. Once it dries it can be painted on and over.

Wood finish – The oil is often used an excellent finish like wood. It has a different effect and process compared to varnish. The oil seeps into exposed pores and this often results in the wood having a shiny surface, where you are still able to see the grain.  The wood that is treated with linseed oil is resistant to denting and scratches are easily repaired, but the wood and oil surface is not as hard as a modern varnish.

Use on Products – Linseed oil is often used on various products such as cricket bats and gun stocks. Many fire departments also treat the handles of their tools such as axes. The reason for this is because it does not create static electricity. Linseed oil is often used on the shaft of the cue for pool.

Nutritional supplement – Linseed oil is known to be used as a nutritional supplement at times. The oil contains very high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and these are good at preventing heart disease. It also contains alpha-linolenic acid, which is beneficial to the heart. It is also good at reducing inflammation. It is also stated that it aides in the development of infants.

Cancer Fighter – It has been stated that linseed oil is a very effective cancer fighter. It contains powerful lignans that is effective at fighting cancer cells. More information can be found here.