Sunflower - High Oleic Carrier Oil (O)

This flower originated in South America, where it was worshipped by the Aztecs as a representation of the sun: the seeds were eaten toasted (one of my favorites), or, turned into meal.

Helios is the Greek word for sun and anthos means flower. Annuus is from the Latin means yearly.

Sunflower oil is the oil expressed from sunflower (Helianthus Annuus) seeds. The seed contains approximately 30% of oil which is light and slightly sweet. Before collection the seeds are allowed to ripen in the flower head until black.

The two most common types of sunflower oil are linoleic and high oleic. This 'high oleic' type has triglycerides that contain at least 80% oleic acid. The oil from the 'high oleic' flower is more heat resistant than the usual 'linoleic type' sunflower oil.

The 'high oleic' sunflower oil as the approximate composition:
Saturated 10%
Monounsaturated 80%
Polyunsaturated 10%

Physical properties:
Odor: Essentially odorless
Acid value: 0.4 max
Specific gravity: 0.915-0.920

Sunflower Oil contains:
Vitamins: A, D and (principally) E and
Minerals: calcium, zinc, potassium, iron & phosphorus.

Sunflower oil is commonly used in food preparation as a frying oil, and in cosmetic formulations as an emollient. 

Sunflower oil is high in the essential vitamin E and low in saturated fat.

NOTE:

This particular Organic Sunflower Oil is the high oleic variety and as a result of the oils higher Oleic acid content it is more stable and resistant to oxidation.

Therapeutic Properties: External use only:
- Beneficial for skin complaints and bruises
- Alleged to be helpful in cases of leg ulcers

Cosmetic Use:
- Skin softening
- Moisturizing
- Ideal for massage

Herbal Oils or macerations commonly use sunflower as their base. It is the premium material for oil solvent extractions. For Calendula and St. John's Wort, this oil will invariably be used as it is finer than Olive Oil.

Sunflower oil is very beneficial in skin care as it resembles human sebum and is a neutral oil in the sense it mirrors the natural skin lipids

Caution:
External use only.
Store is cool, dry area.

Ref:
Len Price: Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage
Jan Kusmirek: Liquid Sunshine / Vegetable Oils for Aromatherapy

Disclaimer:
Information within this site is for educational purposes only. Statements about the product efficacy have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration. The products mentioned within are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. As always, please consult your Medical Doctor for any medical advice or treatment.