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What is "Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower)" and what is its utility?

What is "Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower)" and what is its utility?

Cultivated for its seeds and oil, the Helianthus Annuus (sunflower) is a plant with a thousand virtues. Its stem can reach up to 4 metres in height. The sunflower provides elasticity to the skin and helps to maintain its hydration. Sunflower extract is used in numerous treatments: massage oils, essential oils, and even oil macerates. Here's what you need to know about the usefulness of the Helianthus Annuus.

Summary
Published November 5, 2021, updated on February 2, 2024, by Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences — 4 min read

All you need to know about Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower)

Commonly known as "sunflower", the Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) produces seeds that are pressed to extract oil. Originating from the prairies of central, northern and southern United States, it belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is an annual plant that can grow up to 4 metres high. The sunflower thrives in the sun, in cool and alkaline soils.

Sunflower oil is extracted from the oilseeds of the Helianthus Annuus. These seeds come in various sizes. They can be black, striped or white, depending on the variety. Used in many treatments as a hair conditioner or as an emollient, sunflower oil often serves as the base for floral oils. Approved for organic use, it is also present in skin cleansing treatments. It replenishes, strengthens and soothes the skin. It is beneficial for dehydrated, dry and fragile skin.

The Helianthus Annuus is sown from April to May. It has the ability to alter the orientation of its flowers and leaves to fully capture the sun's rays.

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Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower): What is its utility?

The Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) is an agent:

  • Masking: it inhibits or reduces the basic taste or smell of the skincare product;

  • Emollient: The extract of Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) softens and smoothens the skin. Furthermore, it protects and retains moisture, which helps to maintain its hydration;

  • On skin maintenance: it preserves the condition of the skin.

Thanks to its high content of linoleic acid, the active agents found in sunflower extracts combat skin irritation and the drying of the skin, nails, and hair. They also serve to prevent wrinkles.

Beyond its benefits for the skin, Helianthus Annuus also acts as an agent:

  • Stimulating the immune system;

  • Protector of the cardiovascular and nervous systems.

Thanks to its linoleic acid content, sunflower oil imparts a healthy appearance to the skin. Moreover, it possesses calming properties, enabling it to reduce signs of skin irritation or stress. Furthermore, it revives the radiance of dull and tired skin. With its softening and soothing virtues, it provides suppleness and softness to the skin. It also maintains its natural hydration as well as that of the hair.

Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower): In which treatments is it found?

The Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) is utilised in the formulation of numerous skincare products:

  • Stretch mark treatments;

  • Cleansing Oils;

  • Baby care oils;

  • Cold wax strips for the body;

  • Massage treatments.

The extract of Helianthus Annuus presents no contraindications.

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