-Photos by Danielle Brost
Sunflowers are known for boasting rich medicinal properties and nutritional benefits. Whether used in teas, tinctures, or topical preparations, sunflowers promote vitality, resilience, and strength—fitting for a plant that turns its face toward the sun.
Latin name: Helianthus annuus
Common names: Sunflower, Girasol (Spanish for “turn to the sun.”), Corona solis, marigold of Peru
Parts used: Seeds, petals, leaves (topically)
Harvest:
You know sunflower seeds are ready to harvest when most of the petals have fallen off, the seeds are plump with black or black and white striped shells, and the back of the flower head has turned brown and dry. Before the seeds loosen and fall out on their own…cut the heads off of the stems. Hang them in a cool, dark place with a paper bag over each flower to catch falling seeds.
Constituents:
Sunflowers contain a number of key constituents, including helianthitanic acid, palmitic acid, oleic acid, stearic acid, linoleic acid, cephalin, lecithin, waxes, carotenoids, tocopherols, Vitamin E, protein, carbohydrates, tryptophan, choline, selenium and magnesium.
Medicinal actions:
Emollient, nutritive, vulnerary, antifungal, antioxidant, anti-cancer, antispasmodic, nervine, cardiovascular tonic, brain tonic, circulatory stimulant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory.
Therapeutic uses:
Used to treat nutritional deficiency, dry skin, cuts and scrapes, constipation, psoriasis, memory and cognitive difficulties, inflamed tissues and joints, migraines, fatigue, anxiety, bone injuries, depression, high blood pressure, muscle spasms, heart health maintenance, It also helps lower cholesterol levels, increases “good fat” in the body, protects skin from UV exposure and boosts libido. It has potential for being a cancer preventative due to its high selenium and antioxidant levels. It has a high calorie content, useful for those who are trying to gain weight.
The seeds can be eaten as a food item, and the oil can be consumed internally as well – it is used in cooking and also taken in capsule form.
Topically, the oil can be used as a base ingredient in cosmetic products, medicinal salves, massage oils and other preparations. Sunflower leaves have been used traditionally in topical poultices.
Contraindications:
While sunflower seeds and oil are generally safe for most people, consult with a doctor before use if pregnant or nursing. Those with allergies to other plants in the asteraceae family (daisies, echinacea, etc.) may also be allergic to sunflowers. In high amounts, sunflower oil can raise blood sugar and may potentially increase the risk of atherosclerosis in Type II diabetics.
Additionally, people on anticoagulants or those with a history of blood clotting disorders should use sunflower seeds and oil with caution, as they may have mild blood-thinning properties. As always, consult a healthcare professional before adding any new herbs to your routine.
Disclaimer:
All material contained herein is provided for general information purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Contact a reputable healthcare practitioner if you are in need of medical care.
The information on my blog may not be reposted, copied or published without my permission and appropriate credit given. Please contact me at info@lilyoftheforest.com if you wish to republish any of the information on my blog.
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