Sunflower Oil

Botanical Name:

Helianthus Annuus

Indications:

All skin types.

Constituents:

An oil wealthy in oleic acids with high amounts of vitamins A, D, and E, it also has beneficial amounts of lecithin, and unsaturated fatty acids.

Qualities:

Known to moisturize and condition the skin. Sunflower oil is used as a source of unsaturated fat in the diet to replace saturated fats, helps lower “bad” LDL cholesterol. May help for poorly healing wounds, skin injuries, psoriasis, and arthritis; and as a massage oil. Helps maintain healthy hair.

Usage Notes

Method of Use:

It is commonly used as cooking oil as well as in cosmetic formulations due to its emollient properties.

Cautions:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not enough is known about the use of sunflower oil during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use. Allergy to ragweed and related plants. Diabetes: A diet that is high in sunflower oil seems to increase fastinginsulinand blood sugar levels. It also seems to increase after-meal blood fats. This might increase the chance of developing “hardening of the arteries” (atherosclerosis) in people with type 2 diabetes.