Contents:

• Properties and effects of safflower oil
• Safflower oil – Use in cosmetics
• Safflower oil – Use in the kitchen

We're increasingly appreciating the properties of healthy fats found in natural, high-quality oils. Once considered a sin, fat is now recognized as an essential component for the proper functioning of our bodies, especially essential fatty acids (EFAs). We place great value on olive oil, rapeseed oil , argan oil, grapeseed oil, and sesame oil . However, the choice is much wider, and it's worth trying these lesser-known products, which also boast extremely valuable properties. Among them is safflower oil —a delicate flavor used both in cooking and cosmetics.

This aster-like plant originates from South Asia but is now cultivated worldwide for its health-promoting properties. It is used, among other things, as a substitute for saffron. It has an intense yellow-orange or reddish color and is also used in the dyeing industry. Dried safflower blossoms are also used to prepare health-promoting infusions, or their addition to tea blends creates not only healthy but also delicious teas. Safflower has many uses, but one of the most valuable ingredients obtained from this plant, and specifically from its seeds, is oil.

Properties and effects of safflower oil

The oil extracted from thistle seeds contains many health-promoting ingredients, especially vitamins and unsaturated fatty acids, which are responsible for the proper functioning of the entire body and its immunity. This oil is a source of:

• Vitamin A – supports vision,
• Vitamin E – eliminates the effects of free radicals,
• Omega-3 and Omega-6 acids: oleic, lanolin, stearic and arachidonic acid – they improve, among other things, the function of the brain, heart and immune system,
• phytosterols,
• Flavonoids.

Thanks to this rich composition, the oil of this inconspicuous yellow flower has the following properties:

• painkillers,
• anti-inflammatory,
• calming,
• antispasmodic,
• Regulation of blood pressure,
• Improve blood circulation, preventing the formation of blood clots,
• slows down the aging process,
• improves metabolism, which accelerates fat burning.

Safflower oil – Use in cosmetics

Although it's a cooking oil, it's useful beyond cooking. It can be successfully used as a natural and effective cosmetic for skin and hair. Its high vitamin E content makes it moisturizing, nourishing, slows down the aging process, and soothes skin irritations. The oil's anti-inflammatory properties also work well on blemished skin. It's perfect for a full-body massage—it softens and tones the skin, and it conditions hair by oiling it. This makes the hair shiny, bouncy, and pleasant to the touch.

Safflower oil – Use in the kitchen

Because safflower oil loses its valuable properties during thermal processing, it should only be consumed raw, for example, as an addition to salads. It has a delicate flavor and a subtle, pleasant aroma. It pairs well with pumpkin, sprouts, artichokes, and as a dressing for all leafy salads, such as lamb's lettuce, arugula, endive, and spinach. This oil is safe to use, and just one tablespoon a day is enough to replenish the body with essential fatty acids. Therefore, it's definitely worth diversifying our daily diet with this unusual, healthy, and tasty oil.