ALL ABOUT SUNFLOWER OIL

IN ESSENCE...

• Sunflower Carrier Oil, better known as Sunflower Seed Oil or more simply as Sunflower Oil, is cold pressed from the seeds of the Sunflower.


• Used topically, Sunflower Carrier Oil hydrates, softens, prevents moisture loss, defends against external damage, and facilitates the skin’s regeneration. It is gentle enough to use around the eyes and in baby skin care.


• Sunflower Oil slows the look of wrinkles, reduces the appearance of enlarged pores, eliminates acne-causing bacteria, prevents blemishing, and evens out the skin tone. It is easily absorbed into the skin without clogging pores.


• When applied to hair, Sunflower Oil hydrates, strengthens, softens, manages frizz, repairs damage, and effectively addresses thinning, loss, and baldness.


• Used medicinally, Sunflower Carrier Oil protects against harmful bacteria, soothes skin that is irritated, inflamed, calloused, and rough, and prevents acne breakouts. In massage therapy, it is reputed to be ideal for addressing leg ulcers.

HISTORY OF SUNFLOWER OIL USAGE

Sunflower Carrier Oil, better known as Sunflower Seed Oil or more simply as Sunflower Oil, is cold pressed from the seeds of the big, yellow, cheerful Sunflower botanical, a member of the same family as the Calendula, Chrysanthemum, Dahlia, and Gerbera flowers. Several ancient societies used various parts of the Sunflower for therapeutic and culinary purposes. Its dried leaves were also ingredients in recreational substances that were used similarly to the way in which tobacco was smoked.

While in some cultures of ancient South American origin, the seeds of the Sunflower were considered to be a source of food, for other cultures, namely that of the Aztec and Inca communities, the flower was believed to represent the revered sun and, thus, was worshipped.

In Native American Indian practices, the Sunflower’s roots were used in medicinal applications, such as for infusions that remedied snake bites, and the oil derived from the flower was applied cosmetically as a conditioning agent for hair. In Russian folk medicine, the Sunflower’s head and leaves were used to address coughs, bronchitis, rheumatism, and malaria, among other health conditions.

With various body and skin health-enhancing properties and benefits, Sunflower Oil continues to be used today in topical applications that can be both cosmetic and therapeutic. This article highlights the many safe ways in which Sunflower Oil can be applied to restore and advance the appearance, texture, and health of skin and hair while promoting an overall sense of well-being.

SUNFLOWER OIL BENEFITS

The main chemical constituents of Sunflower Carrier Oil are Linoleic Acid, Oleic Acid, Palmitic Acid, and Stearic Acid.

LINOLEIC ACIDS (OMEGA-6) are known to:

• Moisturize hair and promote its growth
• Facilitate wound healing
• Be an effective emulsifier in the formulation of soaps and quick-drying oils
• Exhibit anti-inflammatory properties
• Soothe acne and reduce chances of future outbreaks
• Promote moisture retention in skin and hair
• Make oils feel thinner in consistency when used in an oil blend, thus being beneficial for use on acne-prone skin
• Help slow the look of aging by sustaining skin elasticity and softness

OLEIC ACIDS (OMEGA-9) are known to:

• Maintain the softness, suppleness, and radiance of skin and hair
• Stimulate the growth of thicker, longer, and stronger hair
• Reduce the appearance of aging, such as premature wrinkles and fine lines
• Eliminate dandruff and support hair growth
• Boost immunity
• Exhibit antioxidant properties
• Prevent joint inflammation, stiffness, and pain

PALMITIC ACID is known to:

• Have emollient properties
• Soften hair without leaving a greasy or sticky residue
• Be the most common saturated fatty acid

STEARIC ACID is known to:

• Have cleansing properties that eliminate dirt, sweat, and excess sebum from hair and skin
• Be an ideal emulsifying agent that binds water and oil
• Help products remain potent when stored for long periods of time
• Condition and protect hair from damage without diminishing luster or making it feel heavy
• Have exceptional cleansing properties
• Soften skin

Upon absorption into the skin, it leaves a protective emollient layer that prevents it from losing moisture while defending its outer layer against damage and facilitating its regeneration, thus resulting in a rejuvenated appearance. It is gentle enough to use on the face, around the eyes, and in baby skin care.

The Vitamin E content of Sunflower Oil exhibits smoothing properties, which slows the look of wrinkles and fine lines. It also prevents blemishing and offers protection against the damaging effects of overexposure to the sun, one such effect being hyperpigmentation. Sunflower Oil is known to even out the skin tone by offering a skin-brightening quality to the complexion. Furthermore, it is also reputed to decrease sensitivity to sunlight and to facilitate the lightening of an unwanted tan.

Its thin consistency means Sunflower Oil is easily absorbed into the skin without clogging pores. While eliminating bacteria that are known to encourage the development of acne, it also reduces the appearance of enlarged pores and bruising. Its abundance of vitamins, anti-oxidants, and fatty acids work to promote skin’s regeneration and to generally enhance skin health.

When applied to hair, Sunflower Oil is known to hydrate dryness, soften the strands, manage frizz, and to repair damage, thus promoting easier manageability. By adding conditioning moisture to the locks and by nourishing the hair, it promotes luster and strengthens it against breakage. Furthermore, the Linolenic Acid content of Sunflower Oil is reputed to effectively address thinning, loss, and baldness.

Used medicinally, Sunflower Carrier Oil’s protective barrier quality serves to protect the body against harmful bacteria that could potentially cause infection. It is reputed to soothe skin that is irritated, inflamed, calloused, and rough, making it ideal for reducing itchiness and for addressing conditions such as dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis. By removing dead skin cells, Sunflower Oil prevents pores from undergoing congestion that leads to whiteheads and blackheads, thus preventing breakouts.

Due to its mild scent, Sunflower Carrier Oil is often used in aromatherapy and for addressing ailments such as sinusitis. When applied in massage therapy, it is reputed to be beneficial for addressing leg ulcers, which are caused by poor circulation.

As illustrated, Sunflower Carrier Oil is reputed to have many therapeutic properties. The following highlights its many benefits and the kinds of activity it is believed to show:

• COSMETIC: Softening, Astringent, Moisturizing, Conditioning, Anti-Oxidant, Anti-Viral, Anti-Bacterial, Clarifying, Brightening
• MEDICINAL: Anti-Microbial, Anti-Viral, Anti-Bacterial, Immune-Enhancing, Energy-Boosting, Anti-Inflammatory

SUNFLOWER OIL USES

Used in topical applications, Sunflower Oil cleanses, exfoliates, and softens skin while moisturizing and nourishing it. For a natural, non-comedogenic facial oil that protects and softens skin while promoting its purification and discouraging the onset of acne, simply massage 2 drops of Sunflower Carrier Oil directly into the preferred area of freshly cleansed skin. For a gentle under-eye moisturizer, simply dab a Sunflower Oil-soaked cotton ball under the eyes at night before bed.

For an antioxidant facial serum that benefits dry, normal, sensitive, and mature skin types, simply combine the following in a glass bottle: 60 ml (2 oz.) of Sunflower Carrier Oil and 20 drops of Lavender, Frankincense, or Geranium essential oil. Cap the bottle and gently roll it between the palms to thoroughly combine the oils. Apply the serum to a freshly cleansed face by dabbing a drop on the chin, cheeks, and forehead, then gently massage it into the face using short, light touches in an upward direction. When the serum is not in use, it can be stored in a cool, dark area.

For a rejuvenating and brightening facial treatment, thoroughly combine 3 Tbsp. Sunflower Carrier Oil, 2 Tbsp. Lemon Juice, and 1 c. plain Greek Yogurt. Apply this mask to the entire face, avoiding the eye area, and keep it on for 20 minutes before rinsing it off with lukewarm water. This soothing mask is reputed to hydrate, promote skin radiance, and remove dead skin while promoting the regeneration of a newer, healthier layer.

For an anti-inflammatory facial treatment that is reputed to soothe blemishes, such as acne, combine 2 tsp. Sunflower Carrier Oil, 2 tsp. Plain Greek Yogurt, and 1 Tsp. Castor Carrier Oil. After the mask has been applied in a thick layer to the face, massage it deeper into the skin for 10 minutes, then wash it off with cold water.

For a simple solution to the problem of frizzy hair, pour 3 drops of Sunflower Oil onto the palms, rub them together, and run the hands down the strands to soften the hair, smooth out flyaways, and add shine. For a more thoroughly smoothing and conditioning hair mask that deeply penetrates into the scalp, begins by massaging the preferred amount of Sunflower Oil into the scalp. This will not only moisturize the skin and hair but it will also stimulate the follicles and smooth down the cuticle, which, if left raised, becomes vulnerable to chipping that results in hair breakage when the hair is touched, combed, or moved. This also works to soothe and prevent dandruff for healthier and stronger hair growth. Next, comb the oil from the scalp down to the ends to ensure that the strands are evenly coated, then wrap the hair. After the mask has been left in for 1 hour, the hair should be thoroughly rinsed out. Alternatively, this mask can be kept on overnight and rinsed out in the morning. This regimen can be repeated once weekly.

For a softening, smoothing, and relaxing bath blend, combine ½ a cup of Sunflower Carrier Oil with 1 cup Baking Soda, then dissolve 2-3 spoons of this blend into a warm bath and soak. This simple bath recipe is also reputed to balance the skin tone by lightening unwanted dark spots and blemishes. 

Used in medicinal applications, Sunflower Oil makes an ideal and luxurious massage oil or base oil in a massage blend. For a light yet profoundly conditioning body massage oil with an easy glide, combine 60 ml (2 oz.) Sunflower Oil with 8 drops Lavender Essential Oil, 3 drops Lemon Essential Oil, and 3 drops Petitgrain Essential Oil. This blend is believed to facilitate the healing of topical injuries and wounds as well as skin conditions that are characterized by itchiness and dryness, such as psoriasis.

For a therapeutic and anti-inflammatory massage blend that is believed to soothe or even prevent arthritis, dilute 25-30 drops of a preferred essential oil in 15 ml (½ oz.) of Sunflower Carrier Oil.

For a massage blend that is reputed to calm the body and mind, combine 60 ml (2 oz.) each of Sunflower Carrier Oil, Sweet Almond Carrier Oil, and Grapeseed Carrier Oil, 30 ml (1 oz.) Apricot Kernel Carrier Oil, 15 drops Lavender Essential Oil, 5 drops Frankincense Essential Oil, and ¼ tsp Vitamin E Liquid.

For a massage blend that eases tension in the muscles, first combine 60 ml (2 oz.) each of Sunflower Carrier Oil, Rosehip Carrier Oil, and Jojoba Carrier Oil. To this, add 10 drops each of Rosemary, Lavender, and Marjoram essential oils. Finally, add ¼ tsp Vitamin E Liquid. For a massage blend that has an aphrodisiac effect, simply replace the aforementioned essential oils with the same amounts of the following essential oils: Tangerine, Sandalwood, and Ylang Ylang.

For a soothing salve that is reputed to promote the faster healing of sunburned skin, combine the following ingredients in a bottle: 2 Tbsp. Sunflower Carrier Oil, 1 Tbsp. Aloe Vera Gel, and 1 cup Apple Cider Vinegar. Cap the bottle and shake it well to thoroughly combine all the ingredients. Apply this balm to affected areas of skin and allow the mixture to soak in for 10 minutes, then rinse it off with cold water.

A GUIDE TO SUNFLOWER OIL VARIETIES & THEIR BENEFITS

SUNFLOWER CARRIER OIL

Botanical Name: Helianthus annuus

Method of Extraction and Plant Part: Cold pressed from seeds then refined

Country of Origin: Spain

Believed to:

• Range in color from pale Yellow to Yellow
• Have a mild aroma that is characteristic of carrier oils
• Exhibit versatile benefits that make it ideal for use in such applications as aromatherapy, therapeutic massages, and manufacturing natural cosmetics
• Penetrate into the skin at an average speed, leaving a slightly oily residue

SUNFLOWER ORGANIC CARRIER OIL

Botanical Name: Helianthus annuus

Method of Extraction and Plant Part: Cold pressed from seeds then refined

Country of Origin: Spain

Believed to:

• Range in color from pale Yellow to Yellow
• Have a mild aroma that is characteristic of carrier oils
• Have a conditioning effect on the hair and skin, making it ideal for use as a nourishing agent for both
• Be best suited to natural products intended to address dryness, damage/breakage, and irritation
• Exhibit versatile benefits that make it ideal for use in aromatherapy and therapeutic massages, among other applications
• Have a fast rate of penetration and absorption into the skin

CONTRAINDICATIONS FOR SUNFLOWER OIL

As with all other New Directions Aromatics products, Sunflower Carrier Oil is for external use only. It is imperative to consult a medical practitioner before using this oil for therapeutic purposes. Pregnant and nursing women are especially advised not to use Sunflower Carrier Oil without the medical advice of a physician, as it may have an effect on certain hormone secretions and it is unclear whether these effects are transferable to babies at these stages of development. The oil should always be stored in an area that is inaccessible to children, especially those under the age of 7.

Those with the following health conditions are recommended to be advised by a physician: diabetes, cancer, heart-related ailments, skin disorders, or hormone-related ailments. Individuals that are taking prescription drugs, undergoing major surgery, or who are at a greater risk of experiencing strokes, heart attacks, or atherosclerosis are also advised to seek medical consultation prior to use.

Prior to using Sunflower Oil, a skin test is recommended. This can be done by applying a dime-size amount of the oil to a small area of skin that is not sensitive. Sunflower Oil must never be used near the inner nose and ears or on any other particularly sensitive areas of skin. Individuals with allergies to Chrysanthemums, Daisies, Marigolds, Ragweed, or other flowers of the Asteraceae or Compositae botanical family may experience an allergic reaction to Sunflower Oil. Potential side effects of Sunflower Oil include sensitization of the skin.

Those seeking medical care to manage moods, behaviors, or disorders should treat this Carrier Oil as a complementary remedy rather than a replacement for any medicinal treatments or prescriptions. In the event of an allergic reaction, discontinue use of the product and see a doctor, pharmacist, or allergist immediately for a health assessment and appropriate remedial action. To prevent side effects, consult with a medical professional prior to use. Sunflower Oil is ideal for those with nut allergies.