Organic safflower oil is a very healthy and nutrient-rich oil that continues to increase in popularity. Safflower oil is derived from the safflower plant. It has a very rich history of being used for many things over the centuries. But with all of the Safflower Oil hype, is this a supplement that’s actually worth trying? It turns out, its versatility is what makes safflower oil among the most widely used plant-based oils in the world. In this article, we will be discussing the numerous health benefits provided by organic safflower oil
Safflower is an annual plant that is mainly grown in India, Mexico, and the United States but is native to most of the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. The safflower plant is yellowish-orange and looks like a thistle and is quite similar to the sunflower. It is among the oldest crops that are grown by humans, with a history that dates back 4,000 years to the time of ancient Egypt.
Safflower Oil Uses
The following are some of the more common ways that safflower oil is used currently:
As a Spice: Frequently, the dried plant is used in cooking as a replacement for the spice saffron, which is much more expensive.
Artist’s solvent: The oil is used as a linseed oil alternative and combined with oil paints.
Industrial ingredient: Safflower oil is used as an ingredient in surface coating, manufacturing paints, and varnishes.
Hair Conditioner: Historically the oil has been used in China and other parts of Asia by women wanting to keep their hair shiny and healthy.
Safflower Oil Composition and Nutrition
Safflower oil is pressed from the plant’s seeds and is full of health benefits and is very nutritional. Most of the fat contained in this oil is one of the good fats called polyunsaturated fat. The oil is also rich in vitamin E and contains omega-6 fatty acids that help the heart and brain function properly. The micronutrients linoleic acid and oleic acid are beneficial for hair and skin
Safflower oil is a highly sought after oil that is a good alternative to a number of traditional cooking oils such as olive oil or coconut oil. After safflower seeds have been pressed into oil, it is either used as a cooking oil or used in various beauty products. There are two major kinds of safflower cooking oil:
Polyunsaturated safflower oil: This type of oil has high amounts of linoleic acid, which is a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid. It is used quite often as a cold oil that is frequently mixed into a salad dressing.
Monounsaturated Safflower Oil: This oil has rich amounts of oleic acid, which is a type of monounsaturated fatty acid. It may be used for sauteing vegetables or for deep frying. It has a long shelf life and is more versatile than the other type.
The Health Benefits of Organic Safflower Oil
1. Maintains Cardiovascular Health
Omega-6 fatty acid is contained in safflower oil, which is very healthy for the heart. The nutrient is also one that is needed by your body to maintain the proper cholesterol levels. When your cholesterol level is in balance, there is less of a chance that you will develop atherosclerosis. It also helps to keep certain kind of cardio problems under control like heart attack and stroke.
2. Boost The Immune System
Safflower oil can boost your immunity. The oil has all of the necessary components for not only boosting your immune system but also protecting against infectious bacteria.
3. Helps With Weight Loss
Organic safflower oil is full of properties that help to reduce the build-up of extra fats to give you more energy.
4. Improve Your Skin
To keep your skin looking youthful and flawless, you need to use a natural product such as safflower oil. The oil is full of multivitamins and linoleic acids that are very important for nourishing your skin. It can also fight acne and reduce blackheads. The oil can be used for massaging your skin. Linoleic acid is contained in safflower oil and it helps to rejuvenate your dead skin tissue and cells.
5. Maintains Healthy And Strong Hair
Organic safflower oil can help to repair dry, dull, and damaged hair. The vitamins and various other components in the oil help to maintain the health of your scalp, strengthen follicles, and stimulate hair growth. Massaging your hair and scalp with safflower oil on a regular basis will result in more vibrant, shiny and stronger hair.
6. Relieves Menstrual Pain
There are properties contained in safflower oil that are great for relieving uneasiness and menstrual pain during your monthly cycle. The oil contains linoleic acid helps to regulate prostaglandins, which cause hormonal systems and fluctuations within your body.
7. Helps Diabetics
Diabetes is a very serious disease that needs to be treated properly. Safflower oil contains omega-6 fatty acids that can help to manage your blood sugar levels. If the oil is incorporated into your regular diet, it can help to reduce the factors that cause this condition in the first place.
8. Relieves Joint Pain
Muscle and joint pain is draining and irritating. Massaging joints with safflower oil can help to ease the pain. The oil has properties that make it a safe source for relieving joint and muscle cramps. It is also full of healing and soothing properties.
9. For Headaches and Migraines
Organic Safflower oil can be used to treat migraines and headaches. The oil can potentially provide comfort and eliminate pain. Massage your temples with the oil when you are in pain to reduce the intensity of the discomfort. Conducting safflower oil massages on a regular basis can help to reduce the reoccurrence of headaches.
10. Maintains Respiratory Health
Organic safflower oil has components that treat respiratory tract issues. It can also help to relieve chest congestion. To prevent breathing difficulties, it can also be inhaled.
11. Works As An Anti-Inflammatory
Safflower oil is full of anti-inflammatory properties. It is contained in many herbal medicines for treating joint inflammation.
12. Has Anti-aging Benefits
Safflower oil contains linoleic acid which helps with regenerating new skin cells that can leave you with glowing, youthful skin. When the oil is applied to your skin it helps with preventing free radical damage and also moisturizes and smooths your skin. That protective and healing properties of safflower oil is why it is contained in so many beauty products.
Side Effects and Warnings
Reported side effects of the oil include diarrhea, loose stools, nausea, and vomiting.
Organic safflower oil is safe to use externally on the hair and skin. However, there are a few precautions that you need to be aware of before you take internally.
Safflower oil might thin the blood, which can slow blood clotting. So the oil is not recommended if you are going to be having surgery or if you have any blood clotting issues. The oil should not be taken internally by individuals who have high blood pressure.
Nursing mothers and pregnant women should not use safflower oil in the form of a dietary supplement. However, it can still be used as a cooking oil.
The risk of hemorrhage may be increased if safflower oil is taken along with NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or anticoagulant medications.
Conclusion
Organic safflower oil is among the most beneficial oils that are currently available. It is readily available and inexpensive, as well as being very versatile and offers numerous health benefits. The oil is rich in nutritional value and full of health benefits. It can be a great alternative to use instead of traditional cooking oils such as coconut oil and olive oil.
