| Sunflower seed oil (Helianthus annuus) is an | | | | bruises, and is said to be effective for healing leg |
| inexpensive oil to use for massage and may be | | | | ulcers and it is known to be good for diaper rash. It |
| blended with other cold-pressed oils. It is high in | | | | is good for all skin types and is commonly used in |
| linoleic acid, and contains vitamins A, D and E and is | | | | massage, and body lotions. It is very good carrier to |
| rich in calcium, zinc, potassium, iron and phosphorus. | | | | use when making macerated oils. |
| Sunflowers were highly prized by the South American | | | | Sunflower seed oil is quick to become rancid. Users |
| Indians who used mortar and pestle to grind the | | | | can expect a shelf life of between 3 to 6 months |
| seeds to make meal. | | | | with proper storage (cool and out of direct sunlight). |
| There are several types of Sunflower oil expressed | | | | Refrigeration is recommended after opening. |
| from the seed. Much of the oil available commercially | | | | Safflower Oil (Carthamus tinctorius), also belongs to |
| has been obtained by solvent extraction, so great | | | | the sunflower family. It is sometimes called American |
| should be taken as to the source when using this oil | | | | saffron. Its oil is one of the least expensive and also |
| therapeutically. Look for the oil containing a high-oleic | | | | has the highest percentage of unsaturated fatty |
| content. Many prefer the unrefined oil. It has a faint | | | | acids. It is high in linoleic acid. Its shelf life is less than |
| and sweet aroma and is virtually clear with a tinge of | | | | 3 months when exposed to air. It will thicken and |
| yellow. It does not leave an oily residue. | | | | become rancid. |
| This carrier oil leaves what many call a second skin | | | | Often used as a substitute for peanut oil, it is good |
| after it dries, making it an excellent oil to use in the | | | | for all skin types, and can be beneficial when used on |
| wintertime. This oil is beneficial for skin complaints and | | | | bruises, sprains and painful arthritic joints. |