Linseed oil, also known as flaxseed oil, yellowish oil obtained from the dried, ripened seeds of the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum).. Linseed oil is a drying oil, meaning it can polymerize into a solid form. Due to its polymer-forming properties, linseed oil can be used on its own or blended with combinations of other oils, resins or solvents as an impregnator, drying oil finish or varnish in wood finishing, as a pigment binder in oil paints, as a plasticizer and hardener in putty, and in the manufacture of linoleum. Purified Linseed Oil reduces the consistency of oil color and slows down drying time. In its raw state, it gives color a high gloss. When diluted 50/50 with turpentine or Low Odour Thinner, it creates an excellent medium for most types of painting.