Sunflower

Helianthus annuus

Reference	APBOSUN
Part of plant	Seeds

Applications
Sunflower is a nutritious oil rich in unsaturated fatty acids and is a valuable source of vitamins A, D and E as well as calcium, zinc, potassium, phosphorous and iron. It is suitable for all skin types and may be particularly nourishing for dry and damaged skins although it is less easily absorbed than some other carrier oils. Sunflower oil has been used to reduce the pain and swelling of bruising and leg ulcers. Generally beneficial for skin health it is included in preparations for haemorrhoids, acne, seborrhoea, rhinitis and sinusitis. The oil contains inulin which is helpful in easing the effects of asthma. Used in appropriate internal measures, sunflower oil has been used in the treatment of a variety of conditions including arteriosclerosis, asthma and even multiple sclerosis. It aids efficient cholesterol metabolism and inclusion of sunflower seeds in the diet is thought to strengthen the body and the immune system.

How to Use
Avian – Internally for arteriosclerosis, asthma, respiratory conditions, rheumatism Dose: 1-2 drops depending on size or bird, mixed in food, 2-3 times a day Externally – bruises Dose: 1-2 drops applied to skin, 2-3 times a day
Canine – Internally for arteriosclerosis, asthma, respiratory conditions, Rheumatism, rhinitis, sinusitis, leg ulcers Dose: 1 teaspoon mixed in food 2-3 times a day Externally: for bruises; seborrhea and other skin complaints Dose – 1 teaspoon or used in poultices or with essential oils as tested, 2-3 times a day
Feline – Internally for arteriosclerosis, asthma, respiratory conditions, rheumatism, rhinitis, sinusitis, leg ulcers Dose: ½ -1 teaspoon 2-3 times a day mixed in food Externally for bruises; seborrhea and other skin complaints Dose: 1 teaspoon or used in poultices or with essential oils as tested, 2-3 times a day
Porcine – Internally: for arteriosclerosis, asthma, respiratory conditions, rheumatism, rhinitis, sinusitis Dose: 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon mixed in food as tolerated , 2-3 times a day Externally: for bruises; seborrhea and other skin complaints, leg ulcers Dose: 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon, on its own or mixed in poultices or with essential oils as tested 2-3 times a day
Equine – Internally: for arteriosclerosis, asthma, respiratory conditions, rheumatism, rhinitis, sinusitis Dose: 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon mixed in food as tolerated. Twice a day. Externally: for bruises; seborrhea and other skin complaints, leg ulcers Dose: 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon, on its own or mixed in poultices or with essential oils as tested 2-3 times a day
Bovine - Internally: for arteriosclerosis, asthma, respiratory conditions, rheumatism, rhinitis, sinusitis Dose: 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon mixed in food as tolerated 2-3 times a day Externally: for bruises; seborrhea and other skin complaints, leg ulcers Dose: 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon, on its own or mixed in poultices or with essential oils as tested 2-3 times a day
Caprine – Internally: for arteriosclerosis, asthma, respiratory conditions, rheumatism, rhinitis, sinusitis Dose: 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon mixed in food as tolerated 2-3 times a day Externally: for bruises; seborrhea and other skin complaints, leg ulcers Dose: 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon, on its own or mixed in poultices or with essential oils as tested 2-3 times a day

Safety Data
– no known contraindications. Generally considered to be non-irritant and non-sensitising.

About the Product
The flower originated in South America, where it was worshipped by the Aztecs as a representation of the sun, and it was brought to Europe in the 16th century. Sunflowers can grow to a height of 5 metres (15 feet) and the flower heads can vary from 7.5 cm (3") in diameter to an impressive 35cm (15")! This tremendous growth takes place in a relatively short period of time and requires lots of water, so sunflowers can be used to drain soggy areas. They will grow in almost any soil as long as there is plenty of full sun and they are watered daily in dry areas. Before collection the seeds are allowed to ripen in the flower head until black, and each head yields on average about 250g (0.5lb) of seeds. It should be distinguished from cooking oils of the same name which are highly refined and therefore unsuitable for use in aromatherapy and massage. The leaves and flowers are used for a variety of chest ailments, especially bronchitis, when mixed with essential oils and herbs.