Natures Answers - Sunflower Oil

By Eric J Smith

The Sunflower is Botanically classified as (Helianthus Annuus)

Sunflower oil is high in essential fatty acids. It helps to moisturise and condition the skin. Sunflower oil can be used as the primary oil within lotion, salt scrub, bath oil and massage oil formulations. It is also very useful in formula’s, intended for mature, sensitive, dry or damaged skin.

Natural sunflower oil is produced from sunflower seeds. Sunflower oil is light in taste and appearance and contains more Vitamin E than any other vegetable oil. It is a combination of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats with low saturated fat levels.

The versatility of this healthy oil is recognised by many home cooks and professional chef’s internationally. Sunflower oil is valued for its light taste, frying performance and health benefits.

Sunflower oil is high in vitamin E and low in saturated fat. Sunflowers are common plants with several species recognised.

Sunflower oil is a common cooking oil that has high levels of the essential fatty acids called polyunsaturated fat. It is also known for having a clean taste and low levels of trans fat.

Some Sunflower oils are classified as having monounsaturated levels of 80% and above.

Sunflower oil of any kind has been shown to have cardiovascular benefits as well. Diets combined with a low fat content and high levels of oleic acid have been suggested to lower cholesterol, which results in a smaller risk of heart disease. Sunflower oil serves this purpose. Studies of adults suggested that a balanced diet in which small quantities of saturated fats are replaced with sunflower oil has noticeable cholesterol lowering benefits. Some Research suggests that lower cholesterol levels can be caused by balances of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids. Sunflower oil may help balance this.

Sunflower oil also has skin health benefits. Sunflower oil, like other oils, can retain moisture in the skin. Some research shows how Sunflower oil may also provide a protective barrier that aids in resisting infection.

Typical uses for Sunflower Seeds & Oil