Atasi (Latin name, Linum usitatissimum) is an erect herb distributed throughout India. The herb has narrow leaves, blue or bluish violet flowers, and capsular fruit with five cells (each containing two seeds). It is mainly cultivated for its oily seeds.
Internally, it is used in habitual constipation, functional disorders of the colon, and as a demulcent preparation in gastritis and enteritis. The seeds powdered are used externally as an emollient, in poultices for boils, carbuncles and other skin afflictions.
