Safflower - Precious oil for skin and circulation : Your online pharmacy selection

What is safflower?

Safflower(Carthamus tinctorius) is a herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family, known for its yellow or orange flowers and oil-rich seeds. Native to the Middle East and Asia, it has been cultivated for thousands of years for its medicinal properties, culinary uses and cosmetic benefits.

Once used as a natural colorant for fabrics and foods, safflower is now mainly exploited for its oil, which is rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants. It is also prized in the cosmetics industry and in phytotherapy for its many health and skin benefits.

What are the benefits of safflower oil for the skin?

Safflower oil is renowned for its nourishing, soothing and regenerating properties. Thanks to its high omega-6 (linoleic acid) and vitamin E content, it is particularly beneficial for the skin.

• Intense hydration:Safflower oil quickly penetrates the epidermis, helping to maintain moisture levels without leaving a greasy film.
• Anti-ageing effect: thanks to its antioxidants, it combats premature skin ageing and protects against free radicals.
• Sebum regulation: Ideal for combination to oily skin, it helps balance sebum production without clogging pores.
• Soothes irritation: Its anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent treatment for sensitive skin prone to redness and itching.
• Improves skin elasticity: Promotes cell regeneration and helps maintain firm, supple skin.

Safflower oil can be used pure to massage into the face, or added to creams and serums to boost their effectiveness.

What are the benefits of safflower oil for hair?

Safflower oil is an excellent hair care product, particularly beneficial for dry, dull and damaged hair.

• Deeply nourishes: thanks to its fatty acids, it moisturizes the hair fiber and restores softness.
• Promotes hair growth: Its stimulating action on scalp blood circulation helps strengthen hair follicles and limit hair loss.
• Adds shine: its sheathing effect restores shine and vitality to dull hair.
• Fights dandruff: its soothing properties calm itching and irritation of the scalp.

It can be applied as an oil bath before shampooing, massaged into the scalp or incorporated into a homemade hair mask.

Is safflower oil beneficial for cardiovascular health?

Yes,safflower oil is a valuable ally for cardiovascular health. It is particularly rich in unsaturated fatty acids, notably omega-6, which help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL).

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, it helps maintain good blood circulation and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension and coronary heart disease.

Its protective effect on the heart is enhanced by its vitamin E content, a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative damage.

How to use safflower oil in cooking?

Safflower oil is a light, neutral-tasting vegetable oil that can be used for both seasoning and light cooking.

• Seasoning salads and raw vegetables: Its discreet taste makes it easy to incorporate into vinaigrettes.
• Addition to low-temperature dishes: It can be used to steam vegetables or simmer dishes.
• Substitute for other vegetable oils: It is an excellent substitute for sunflower or rapeseed oil in certain preparations.

To preserve its nutritional benefits, it is best used cold or in gentle cooking, as polyunsaturated fatty acids are sensitive to heat.

Does safflower oil help with weight loss?

Some studies suggest thatsafflower oil may contribute to weight management thanks to its omega-6 content. These fatty acids play a role in regulating fat metabolism and may help reduce the accumulation of body fat, particularly in the abdominal area.

However, althoughsafflower oil can be incorporated into a balanced diet, it should be consumed in moderation, as with all fats, to avoid caloric excess.

What are the possible side effects of safflower oil?

Safflower oil is generally well tolerated, but certain precautions should be taken. Excessive consumption can cause digestive problems, including diarrhea and bloating, due to its high fatty acid content.

People allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family (such as dandelion, chamomile or arnica) should be cautious, as they may be sensitive to safflower.

Finally, due to its blood-thinning properties, it is not recommended for people on anticoagulant therapy, unless advised by a physician.

Where can I buy quality safflower oil?

Safflower oil is available in organic stores, pharmacies, parapharmacies and online. To guarantee optimum quality, it's best to choose a virgin, cold-extracted oil from organic farming.

An unrefined oil retains all its nutritional properties and offers better health and beauty benefits.

What's the difference between safflower oil and sunflower oil?

Safflower oil andsunflower oil are often compared on the basis of their composition, which is rich in unsaturated fatty acids. However,safflower oil contains a higher proportion ofomega-6, making it more beneficial for the heart and skin. It is also richer in vitamin E, an asset in the fight against cellular aging.

Why incorporate safflower oil into your daily routine?

Versatile and rich in benefits,safflower oil deserves a place of choice in a balanced diet and natural beauty routine. Whether you're looking after your skin, hair, heart or metabolism, safflower oil is a natural and effective solution to adopt on a daily basis.