Helianthus is a genus comprising about 70 species of annual and perennial flowering plants in the daisy family Asteraceae. Except for three South American species, the species of Helianthus are native to North America and Central America. The common names “sunflower” and “common sunflower” typically refer to the popular annual species Helianthus annuus, whose round flower heads in combination with the ligules look like the sun.^[rx] This and other species, notably Jerusalem artichoke (H. tuberosus), are cultivated in temperate regions and some tropical regions as food crops for humans, cattle, and poultry, and as ornamental plants.^[rx] The species H. annuus typically grows during the summer and into early fall, with the peak growth season being mid-summer.^[rx]

 

Sunflower scientifically known as Helianthus annuus is a genus of the plant which comprises about 70 species belonging to the family Asteraceae. Sunflower is known from other names such as Annual Sunflower, Hopi Sunflower, Common Sunflower, Sunflower, Giant Sunflower, and Kansas Sunflower. Sunflower is inherent to prairies, dry plains, foothills, and meadows in Canada, the western U.S., and Northern Mexico. The plant is annual, fast-growing, leafy, hairy, and coarse which typically grows to the height of 100 to 300 cm. It is a weedy plant that is commonly grown along fences, roads, fields, and waste areas. Sunflower has erect rough to the hairy stem. It bears broad, rough, alternate, and coarsely toothed leaves. It has ray flowers that resemble petals which consist of ligules consisting of fused petals of an asymmetrical ray flower. They may be orange, red, or yellow and is sexually sterile. Flowers in the center of the head are known as disk flowers which mature into fruits known as sunflower seeds. Disk flowers are spirally arranged. Flower heads in combination with ligules look like the sun. Flowers bloom during summer. It prefers moist, fertile, and well-drained soil with heavy mulch.

Since ancient times, seeds of the plant have been used as nutritious food and seeds contain about 23% protein as well as essential amino acids in significant amounts. It contains 50% of multiple unsaturated fats which the highest content is an essential linoleic fatty acid, which is an essential forerunner of omega 6 fatty acids which is beneficial for reducing cholesterol levels in the blood. Oleic acid is an essential unsaturated fatty acid that is found in high content. Seeds are highly nutritious and contain a high level of oil. Seeds are a great source of minerals such as phosphorus, calcium, natural, magnesium, iron, and potassium. Sunflower helps to promote brain power, digestion and assists the functions of the cardiovascular system. Bright yellow petals are used to treat eye problems. Sunflower seeds have a high content of oil and are one of the main sources used for extracting polyunsaturated oil. The natural sunflower oil is derived from an oily type of sunflower seeds which helps to improve overall health. Oil has a light taste as well as appearance. The oil provides a high content of Vitamin E if compared to other vegetable oil that is available in the market. This oil is a combination of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. Due to the low levels of saturated fats, it prevents various health conditions such as indigestion, obesity, and heart problems.

History

Sunflower is originated in 1000 B.C. in America and then it was cultivated for centuries as a valuable food source. The popularity of the flower spread with an exploration of Europe of New World as the rest appreciated its sustenance and beauty. The images of sunflower are used as religious symbols which have been documented in some inherent societies. Wild sunflowers with their tall stalks and bright petals have been photographed as they stretched towards the sun is known as phototropism. Presently, sunflowers are widely known flower which is appreciated for its delightful disposition and sunny charm. It is a source of seeds, oils that are used for skin emollients and cooking purposes.

Sunflower is introduced by Spanish explorers to Europe. Firstly it is grown in Spain and then it was introduced to other neighboring countries. In these current days, sunflower oil is the popular oil in the world. The major commercial markets of sunflowers include Spain, Russia, France, Argentina, China, and Peru. The world has been enjoying the seeds of sunflowers for generations. The seeds could be consumed roasted, raw. Seeds are a powerhouse of minerals, vitamins, and other important nutrients.

Plant

Sunflower is an annual, coarse and erect herb which measures 100 to 300 cm, branched or unbranched having taproot. It has hispid, fleshy, and green stems. Leaves are cauline, large, and alternate on petioles usually 2 to 20 cm long; lamina is cordate to ovate measuring 10 to 40 by 5 to 40 cm having a subcordate or cordate base, serrate margins, and the lower surface is gland-dotted and hispid. It bears 1 to 9 flowering heads on peduncles which measures 2 to 20 cm long. Ray florets are yellow, sterile. Laminae are usually 25 to 50 mm. An achene measures 3 to 15 mm and is dark gray having white stripes.

Minerals	Amount	% DV
Calcium, Ca	109 mg	10.90%
Iron, Fe	7.35 mg	91.88%
Magnesium, Mg	455 mg	108.33%
Phosphorus, P	924 mg	132.00%
Potassium, K	903 mg	19.21%
Sodium, Na	13 mg	0.87%
Zinc, Zn	7 mg	63.64%
Copper, Cu	2.52 mg	280.00%
Manganese, Mn	2.73 mg	118.70%
Selenium, Se	74.2 µg	134.91%

Vitamins	Amount	% DV
Water-soluble Vitamins
Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)	2.072 mg	172.67%
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)	0.497 mg	38.23%
Vitamin B3 (Niacin)	11.669 mg	72.93%
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid)	1.582 mg	31.64%
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)	1.883 mg	144.85%
Vitamin B9 (Folate)	318 µg	79.50%
Folate, food	318 µg	N/D
Folate, DEF	318 µg	N/D
Choline	77.1 mg	14.02%
Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid)	2 mg	2.22%
Fat-soluble Vitamins
Vitamin A, IU	70 IU	N/D
Beta Carotene	42 µg	N/D
Betaine	49.6 mg	N/D
Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol)	49.24 mg	328.27%
Tocopherol, beta	1.65 mg	N/D
Tocopherol, gamma	0.52 mg	N/D
Tocopherol, delta	0.03 mg	N/D

Lipids	Amount	% DV
Fatty acids, total saturated	6.237 g	N/D
Myristic acid  14:00(Tetradecanoic acid)	0.035 g	N/D
Palmitic acid 16:00 (Hexadecanoic acid)	3.094 g	N/D
Margaric acid (heptadecanoic acid) 17:00	0.028 g	N/D
Stearic acid 18:00 (Octadecanoic acid)	2.366 g	N/D
Arachidic acid 20:00 (Eicosanoic acid)	0.161 g	N/D
Behenic acid (docosanoic acid) 22:00	0.448 g	N/D
Lignoceric acid (tetracosanoic acid) 24:00	0.105 g	N/D
Fatty acids, total monounsaturated	25.939 g	N/D
Palmitoleic acid 16:1 (hexadecenoic acid)	0.028 g	N/D
Heptadecenoic acid 17:1	0.021 g	N/D
Oleic acid 18:1 (octadecenoic acid)	25.732 g	N/D
Gadoleic acid 20:1 (eicosenoic acid)	0.119 g	N/D
Erucic acid 22:1 (docosenoic acid)	0.041 g	N/D
Fatty acids, total polyunsaturated	32.392 g	N/D
Linoleic acid 18:2 (octadecadienoic acid)	32.27 g	N/D
Linolenic acid 18:3 (Octadecatrienoic acid)	0.084 g	N/D
20:5 n-3 (EPA)	0.02 g	N/D
Phytosterols	748 mg	N/D

Amino acids	Amount	% DV
Tryptophan	0.487 g	110.68%
Threonine	1.299 g	73.81%
Isoleucine	1.595 g	95.39%
Leucine	2.323 g	62.85%
Lysine	1.312 g	39.23%
Methionine	0.692 g	N/D
Cystine	0.631 g	N/D
Phenylalanine	1.637 g	N/D
Tyrosine	0.932 g	N/D
Valine	1.841 g	87.17%
Arginine	3.364 g	N/D
Histidine	0.885 g	71.83%
Alanine	1.564 g	N/D
Aspartic acid	3.424 g	N/D
Glutamic acid	7.811 g	N/D
Glycine	2.045 g	N/D
Proline	1.655 g	N/D
Serine	1.505 g	N/D

Amino acids	Amount	% DV
Total isoflavones	0.01 mg	N/D
Biochanin A	0.01 mg	N/D
Formononetin	0.04 mg	N/D
Coumestrol	0.01 mg	N/D

*Above mentioned Percent Daily Values (%DVs) are based on 2,000 calorie diet intake. Daily values (DVs) may be different depending upon your daily calorie needs. Mentioned values are recommended by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. They are not healthbenefitstimes.com recommendations. Calculations are based on average age of 19 to 50 years and weigh 194 lbs. Source: https://ndb.nal.usda.gov/

Health benefits of Sunflower Seeds

Sunflower seeds are extremely lower in cholesterol as well as sodium, therefore safeguarding your heart. These seeds are a fantastic source of vitamin B6, thiamin, magnesium, copper, phosphorus, manganese, and selenium, and therefore are rich in vitamin E (Alpha Tocopherol). To maintain your daily nutrition upright, you need to opt for these seeds. Sunflower seeds may also be very good for digestion and brain health.

Sunflower seeds – efficient at the ballpark, helpful throughout a long drive, along with a native plant to North America that is a staple to cultures worldwide. Despite their small size, sunflower seeds really are a dense source of vitamins and minerals as well as essential oils. They are not only an excellent snack, sunflower seeds offer several remarkable health benefits.

1. Prevents damage of cells

Seeds of sunflower have a high content of Vitamin E which is an essential component of day to day needs of nutritional. Seeds are a great source of antioxidants that eliminates the spread of free radicals in the human body. Free radicals result in various diseases and cellular damage. Seeds are rich in Vitamin E which supports the proper functioning of the circulatory system. Vitamin E assists blood to clot readily when external wounds are experienced by assisting to speed up the healing process. Sunflower seeds assist to lower the chances of diabetes and cardiac diseases. Sunflower seeds have selenium which repairs cellular damage and eradicates the spread of cancerous cells.

2. Supports digestion

Sunflower seeds have a high content of dietary fiber. The deficiency of fiber in the body is the cause of various health problems such as piles, constipation, colon cancer, hemorrhoids, and others. Various digestive problems increase toxicity within the intestines. An adult must have 30 grams of fiber per day. Add sunflower seeds to the diet which supplies dietary fiber and lower chances of digestion-related problems.

3. Promote level of energy

Athletes consume sunflower seeds as it offers high content of protein and carbohydrates. It supports the liver’s discharge of glycogen into the bloodstream which is a form of sugar that provides extra energy.

4. Bone health

Sunflower seeds contain iron which distributes oxygen to the muscles. Zinc strengthens the immune system and assists to avoid colds and coughs. It is essential to maintain bone health and the production of energy. Magnesium supports bones in their strength and structure. The remaining magnesium found on the surface of bones is used by the body as required. Sunflower seeds have a high content of magnesium which helps to lower blood pressure and lowers the chances of stroke and heart attack.

5. Promote brain function

Studies have shown that seeds provide a calming effect on the brain and also assist to uplift mood. Sunflower seeds have a high content of tryptophan which promotes the fabrication of serotonin in the brain which is a neurotransmitter. It lowers tension which creates a relaxed feeling. Seeds of choline have a vital function in vision and memory functions. It has a high content of betaine that protects against cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure. Seeds have arginine which is responsible for maintaining a healthy heart. Lignans help to maintain an appropriate level of blood cholesterol which prevents the chances of atherosclerosis and heart attacks.

6. Helpful for pregnancy

Sunflower seeds have a high content of folate which is also called folic acid that is a type of Vitamin B. Folate assists in the production of new cells in the body by enhancing the replication of RNA and DNA which is vital for the development and growth of the fetus. It works with Vitamin B12 for forming hemoglobin in red blood cells. An adequate amount of folate in the body lowers the risk of heart problems.

7. Prevent cardiovascular problems

Sunflower seeds possess two nutrients such as folate and vitamin E which promote cardiovascular health. The serving size of a quarter cup of sunflower seeds possess 60% of the daily value of Vitamin E. Vitamin acts as antioxidant and balance levels of vitamin E are associated to reducing the chances of early death due to cardiovascular diseases. Vitamin E neutralizes free radicals for protecting brain health as well as cell membranes against swelling and redness. Folate helps to promote cardiovascular health from birth to old age. It also metabolizes homocysteine which is the sign of cardiovascular problems into methionine which is an essential amino acid. Essential fatty acids and folate occur naturally in sunflower seeds and are related to cardiovascular health.

8. Acts as antioxidant

Studies show that sunflower seeds are helpful to prevent cancer. Seeds have vitamins, trace minerals, and antioxidants which lower oxidative stress in the body which are the cause of cancer development. Nutrients found in Sunflower seeds contain chemo-preventive compounds which prevent early phases of the development of cancer to eliminate tumor growth. The antioxidants assist in the repairmen of DNA and slow down the growth of mutation of cancer cells. Consume seeds to prevent cancer and lower the chances of reoccurrences. The study has shown that Vitamin E prevents prostate cancer in men and recent studies show that it helps to lower the chances of lung cancer. Seeds possess selenium which is an antioxidant that is vital for the prevention of breast cancer. In studies, selenium helps to repair DNA and detoxify the body from harmful as well as damaged cells. Selenium also blocks the proliferation of cancer cells.

9. Treatment for diabetes

Seeds and nuts help to lower the risk of hyperglycemia and also balance the level of blood sugar. It lowers the risk of the development of metabolic syndrome including insulin resistance and diabetes. Insulin resistance and unbalanced blood sugar levels result in weight gain, inflammation, and autoimmune responses. Sunflower seeds have powerful nutrients which help to blockade the spikes as well as dips of blood sugar.

10. Promotes skin health

Studies show that Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps to maintain strong, youthful, and healthy skin. Sunflower seeds have Vitamin E and essential fatty acid lipids which hydrate the skin and eliminate pollution and sun damage. The controlled trials in animals show that flax seeds and sunflower seeds help to keep skin healthy and eliminate signs of damage and it is believed that the same benefits are obtained in hair and skin of aging humans.

Sunflower: Skin Benefits

Sufficient nutrition is really a prerequisite for healthy skin. As mentioned earlier, sunflower seeds are abundant with vitamin E that protects the skin from oxidative (cell) damage, and supports healthy skin growth. Some of its skin benefits are listed below.

1. Skin Protection and Maintenance

Sunflower seeds additionally include copper that is essential for maintaining healthy skin. Copper is required by our body to make melanin, the pigment that is to blame for providing the skin its color. The minute particles of the protein pigment safeguard the skin from damage by ultraviolet radiation.

2. Anti-ageing Benefits

Sunflower seeds include particular nutrition that gives rise to the health as well as the vitality of the skin. Vitamin E is among those which assist in avoiding the skin from free radical damage in addition to sun damage. Additionally, it helps prevent scarring and the appearance of wrinkles. The seeds additionally include beta-carotene that makes the skin less responsive to the sun. The many other antioxidants in sunflower seeds safeguard the skin from environmental damage, therefore avoiding signs and symptoms of aging.

3. Combats Acne and Other Skin Problems

Sunflower seed oil is a great source of essential fatty acids like linoleic, oleic, palmitic as well as stearic acids that encourage the development of collagen and elastin, therefore making the skin smooth and soft. The fatty acids have got anti-bacterial qualities that safeguard the skin from bacteria, therefore decreasing the occurrence of acne. In accordance with research, sunflower seed oil might help safeguard the skin of infants born prematurely by reduction of the risks of skin infection and disease. Additionally, it is considered that sunflower oil can soothe dermatitis and eczema.

4. Great Moisturizer

Sunflower seed oil behaves as a great moisturizer, helping the skin to retain the majority of moisture and offering a powerful barrier. Its moisturizing qualities could be related to the existence of linoleic acid.

Sunflower: Hair Benefits

Sunflower seeds consist of essential minerals and vitamins that are required for healthy hair-like protein, selenium, vitamin E, and B vitamins.

1. Stimulates Hair Growth

Zinc found in sunflower seed encourages hair growth. However, excessive usage of zinc can result in hair loss. Vitamin E also encourages hair growth simply by increasing the circulation of blood to the scalp. It ought to also be consumed moderately as too much of it may cause hair loss.

2. Prevents Hair Loss

Sunflower seeds additionally include vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) which isn’t only essential for the absorption of zinc but additionally has several hair loss prevention qualities. These types of qualities could be related to the ability of vitamin B6 to improve oxygen supply towards the scalp. Also, they are the best dietary options for copper that is involved with melanin formation. This particular pigment is responsible for providing color to your hair.

3. Moisturizes your Hair

Sunflower seed oil is definitely an inexpensive natural moisturizer for hair. It has omega 6 fatty acids that really help avoid thinning hair.

Traditional uses

• Seeds are used for treating pulmonary, bronchial, and laryngeal infections, colds, and coughs.
• Sunflower is used in Europe for treating pulmonary infections and seeds preparation is used for coughs and colds.
• In Chinese folk medicine, sunflower is used for treating carcinoma of the stomach, hypertension, and asthma.
• Seeds are used for treating dysentery in China.
• Prepare a tincture from seed for ague and intermittent fevers.
• Seeds are used as a substitute for quinine in treating malaria in the Caucasus.
• The tea prepared from flowers is used to treat lung complaints and malaria.
• The tincture prepared from bark and flowers is helpful for fevers and intermittent fevers.
• Make a poultice from crushed leaves for snakebites, sore swellings, and spider bites.
• Use the decoction made from roots as a warm wash on pains and rheumatic aches and a cure for diabetes mellitus.
• An infusion made from flowers is used for kidney problems.
• Zuni men chew fresh or dried roots to cure rattlesnake bites.
• In Mexico, it is used to soothe chest pains.
• Cherokee used sunflower leaves infusion for treating kidneys.
• An infusion made from sunflower is used by Dakota for pulmonary problems and chest pains.
• Seeds are used by Hidatsa, Rees, Mandan, and Gros Ventres for alleviating fatigue.
• Sunflower seeds are consumed by Navajo for stimulating appetite.
• The decoction made from sunflower root is used by Paiute for alleviating rheumatism.
• Pima applies a poultice of warm ashes to the stomach for eliminating worms and leaves decoction is used for high fevers.
• Thompson Indians use powdered sunflower leaves in the ointment for swellings and sores.
• Poultice prepared from Sunflower root is used by Zuni for treating snakebite.
• Sunflower oil is helpful for treating constipation.

Precautions                                                                                                 

• The pollen or extracts of plants might cause allergic reactions.
• Consult the doctor for treating health problems.
• People with known allergies should avoid its use.
• Avoid its excessive use.
• Seeds might cause reactions such as gastritis, sneezing, itching of eyes, and vomiting.
• Sunflower seeds have purines or oxalates. So people with kidney problems should avoid the consumption of sunflower seeds.
• Do not consume the shells of sunflower seeds as it might puncture the digestive tract and could lead to stomach problems.

How to Eat

• Roasted seeds are consumed as snack food.
• Roasted seeds are used as coffee.
• Ground the seeds into flour and process it into an alternative for peanut butter especially in Russia, China, Europe, the Middle East, and the United States.
• Blend the germinated seed with water and leave to ferment for making seed yogurt.
• Sprouted seeds are consumed raw.
• Oil extracted from seeds is used in salads.
• Consume the flower petals raw or cooked in the young bud stage.
• Flower buds during young could be lightly boiled or steamed.
• Roasted seeds are used as a garnish for pasta and salads.
• Add seeds to chicken, turkey, and tuna salad.
• Seeds could be added to muffins, cakes, and candies.
• In Germany, seeds flour is used to make dark bread.

Other Facts        

• The sunflower is the city flower of Japan and is the state flower of the US state of Kansas.
• Sunflower is considered to be the symbol of Vegan society.
• The flower was the symbol of the Aesthetic Movement during the late 19th century.
• The sunflower is the national flower of Ukraine.
• It has taproots so it requires loose, well dug, and well-draining soil.

References

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