Helianthus annus

Family: Asteraceae

Part used: seeds

Base oil: can be used 100 percent

Sunflower is native to America. The plant grows to a height of about 6 – 15 feet, has a tall hairy stem and red to purple rays with large orange-yellow flower petals that look similar to a large daisy. The flower disc produces edible seeds.

Contains: vitamins, minerals

Practical uses: good for all skin types. The carrier/base oil is used to dilute essential oils in aromatherapy for massage oils and other formulations.

Therapeutic Properties: antisclerotic, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, diuretic, emollient, expectorant, insecticidal, sudorific

Caution: avoid using this oil on people with nut allergies.

This oil is light-textured and nourishing to the skin. Avoid processed, supermarket-grade oil and instead choose unrefined organic oil, as it naturally contains skin-enhancing ingredients such as potassium, vitamins B and E, and omega-6 fatty acids. Sunflower oil softens the face without leaving a residue, and this carrier protects and restores combination skins.

*Special Tip: To repair damaged hair that has split ends, massage 40 ml / 8 tsp sunflower oil into dry hair, from the roots to the tips. Leave the oil in for 20 minutes, then, without wetting your hair, massage in an unfragranced shampoo, and rinse. Your hair will feel silky smooth.

Special Blends

Add these essential oils to 20 ml / 4 tsp Sunflower carrier oil:

To soften and nourish tired-looking, dry skin:

• 4 drops Australian Sandalwood, 2 drops Patchouli, 4 drops Sweet Orange

To soothe combination skin:

• 4 drops Geranium, 2 drops Roman Chamomile, 4 drops Linaloe Wood

*Source: Harding Jennie, The Essential Oils Handbook. Duncan Baird Publishers, 2008

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