Safflower oil: uses, properties and benefits

Safflower or safflower is characterized by being an oleaginous plant, that is, it has seeds or fruits from which an oil is extracted, whose uses can be culinary or industrial.

Although in its beginnings it was cultivated to be used as a colorant, spice or substitute for aniline, from the 1950s it began to be cultivated to extract the oil from its seeds.

Both edible oil and essential oil provide interesting benefits. While the former is a source of unsaturated fatty acids, the latter is able to help treat skin disorders such as acne and eczema.

Nutritional characteristics of safflower oil

There are 2 types of safflower oil: monounsaturated and polyunsaturated. Each of them contains active compounds that attribute specific nutritional characteristics to it. Let's see in detail.

Monounsaturated safflower oil

It is known to be rich in oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid from the omega 9 series that has the ability to withstand high temperatures without losing its nutrients.

The smoke point of monounsaturated safflower oil stands out from other more popular oils, such as corn, olive or canola, making it a healthy substitute.

Similarly, there are those who are of the opinion that it could be better for cooking, since its taste, color and smell are neutral.

Polyunsaturated safflower oil

This oil, for its part, is rich in linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid of the omega 6 series that is more sensitive than the previous one and, therefore, should not be exposed to high temperatures.

Instead, if you want to avoid oxidation, you should store it in cold places like the refrigerator and avoid exposing it to light. Polyunsaturated safflower oil is generally sold as a nutritional supplement, as its linoleic acid levels are high.

Keep in mind that although omega 6 is essential for the proper functioning of the body, it is necessary to obtain it through food because of our inability to produce it.

Also read: What are omega 3, omega 6 and omega 9 acids?

What are the uses of safflower oil?

Safflower oil can be used to make oil paints in white and other light shades. But there are many more uses, even linked to medicine. Find out more about this substance.

On the skin

Since it is credited with potential skin health benefits, safflower oil it is usually present in the ingredient lists of a wide variety of cosmetics. If you intend to use them, you just have to follow the instructions.

Now, in its pure, edible and body versions, it can be applied directly to the skin. If it is essential oil, it must be diluted before being used. How do you do it? Adding a few drops to the carrier oil. Jojoba and grapeseed are recommended for their effectiveness for oily skin.

Finally, thanks to the fact that it is considered a safe oil, can be applied daily. Remember, also, that essential oils are more powerful, so their use is short-term.

In the kitchen

Monounsaturated safflower oil has a smoke point of approximately 232 degrees Celsius, which makes it resistant to oxidation. Thus, it is an excellent option for cooking at high temperatureseither when frying, roasting or baking. In the same way, it stands out for changing the taste and aroma of food and preventing the formation of free radicals.

For its part, polyunsaturated safflower oil is often used to dress salads and other raw dishes, as well as to cook over low heat. In the latter case you must be careful, as it tends to oxidize quickly.

Health benefits of safflower oil

So far some of the benefits of safflower oil have been looming. Here are the proven ones, according to science.

1. It is a source of fatty acids

Safflower oil is a source of unsaturated fatty acids (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated) that play a fundamental role in the functioning of the body.

This type of fat good they intervene in hormonal regulation, in memory processes and in the absorption of vitamins A, D, E and K. In addition, they are able to create a greater feeling of satiety.

On the other hand, safflower oil also has saturated fats, often considered unhealthy or bad. However, its levels are much lower than those of other popular oils, such as olive, avocado and sunflower.

Now a high-fat diet good and low in fat bad it is the key to many health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and improving heart health.

2. Stabilizes blood sugar levels

An investigation published in the journal PLoS Medicine showed that a diet rich in monounsaturated fatty acids makes it easier to keep glucose levels under control.

According to the study, replace saturated with unsaturated fats (especially polyunsaturated fatty acids) significantly improved blood sugar levels, secretion and insulin resistance.

Likewise, a study published in Clinical Nutrition found that consuming 8 grams of safflower oil daily for 4 months can decrease inflammation and improve glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.

For this reason, the researchers conclude that combining a high-fat diet good with diabetes treatments it is effective in reducing the complications of the disease.

3. Lowers cholesterol levels and promotes heart health

The same study published in Clinical Nutrition threw that using safflower oil for 4 months was able to lower cholesterol levels. Which certifies that unsaturated fats can lower LDL cholesterol or bad.

However, this is not the only way this substance can support heart health. The unsaturated fatty acids in safflower oil cause platelets to clump less, preventing clots associated with an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

4. It is a natural anti-inflammatory

Chronic inflammation can cause heart disease, autoimmune disease, and even cancer. Fortunately, there is scientific evidence that safflower oil has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce markers important factors associated with cellular hyperactivity reactions.

5. Improves skin health

Since it can hydrate and soothe itching, as well as other symptoms of dry skin, is a popular ingredient in dermatological care products.

It has anti-inflammatory properties and is a source of vitamin E. A nutrient that, according to a study published in Indian Dermatology Online Journal, can help treat skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema, as well as improve wound healing.

Safflower oil side effects

Safflower oil is safe as long as recommended dosages are not exceeded. In adults they are the following:

• Women between 19 and 30 years old: 6 tsp.

• Women over 30 years old: 5 tsp.
• Men between 19 and 30 years old: 7 tsp.
• Men over 30 years old: 6 tsp.

On the other hand, people with bleeding disorders and about to undergo surgery should avoid consuming this oil, as it can affect coagulation and increase the risk of bleeding.

Regarding its topical use, a test is recommended to determine how sensitive the skin is. To do this, a small amount is placed on the forearm and waits for 24 to 48 hours. If you do not develop any rash or irritation, you can continue using it.

Discover: How to prevent skin irritation?

Safflower oil: an important source of unsaturated fats

Traditionally, this plant was cultivated to be used as a coloring. However, currently the focus is on its seeds, which allow obtaining a highly coveted oil.

The reason? It is rich in unsaturated fatty acids and can be found in 2 forms: monounsaturated (able to withstand high temperatures without losing its nutrients) and polyunsaturated (the oil with the highest source of linoleic acid on the market).

These unsaturated fats, along with other compounds, are responsible for benefits such as controlling blood sugar levels, lowering LDL cholesterol, and improving skin health.

Regarding its contraindications, it is safe as long as it is consumed within the range of recommended doses and patch testing is done during topical use. People with bleeding problems and plans to have surgery should avoid it.