Safflower Oil: Uses, Properties & Benefits

Safflower oil has the property of controlling blood sugar levels, lowering LDL cholesterol and supporting skin health. What are its other benefits and side effects?

Safflower is an oilseed plant. In other words, it has seeds or fruits from which an oil is extracted. Its uses can be culinary or industrial. While it was originally cultivated to be used as a dye, spice or aniline substitute, from the 1950s onwards it began to be cultivated to extract oil from safflower seeds.

Both edible oil and essential oil offer interesting benefits. This is because edible oil is a source of unsaturated fatty acids, while essential oil has the property of helping to treat skin disorders such as acne and eczema.

Nutritional characteristics of safflower oil

There are 2 types of safflower oil: monounsaturated and polyunsaturated. Each contains active compounds that give it specific nutritional characteristics. Let’s see this in more detail.

Monounsaturated safflower oil

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

The smoke point of monounsaturated safflower oil differs from that of more popular oils like corn, olive or canola oil. It is therefore a healthy substitute.

In addition, some people suggest that this oil is better for cooking because its flavor, color and smell are neutral.

Polyunsaturated safflower oil

As for it, polyunsaturated oil is rich in linoleic acid. An essential fatty acid from the omega 6 family which is more sensitive than the previous one. Therefore, it should not be exposed to high temperatures.

If you want to avoid its oxidation, it is advisable to store it in a cool place such as the refrigerator and to avoid exposure to light. In general, polyunsaturated safflower oil is sold as a nutritional supplement because it has high levels of linoleic acid.

You should know that, even if omega 6 are essential for the correct functioning of the body,  it is necessary to obtain them through the diet  because we are unable to produce them.

What are the uses of safflower oil?

Safflower oil can be used to make white oil paints and other light tones. However,  there are many other uses related to medicine. Find out more about this substance.

For the skin

Due to its potential skin health benefits, safflower oil  is often found in the ingredients of a wide range of cosmetic products. If you intend to use it, just follow the instructions.

Note that, in its pure, edible and bodily version, it can be applied directly to the skin. If it is an essential oil, it must first be diluted before using it. How to do? By adding a few drops to the carrier oil. Jojoba and grape seed oils are recommended for their effectiveness in oily skin.

Finally, since it is considered a safe oil,  it can be applied daily. In addition, be aware that essential oils are more powerful and that their use must therefore be of short duration.

In the kitchen

Monounsaturated safflower oil has a smoke point of around 232 degrees Celsius. This makes it resistant to oxidation. Therefore, it is a great option for cooking at high temperatures, either for frying, broiling or baking. This oil is also distinguished by its action on the flavor and smell of food. It also prevents the formation of free radicals.

For its part, polyunsaturated safflower oil is often used to season salads and other raw dishes. As well as for cooking over low heat. In this case, it is important to be careful because it tends to oxidize quickly.

Health Benefits of Safflower Oil

Now here are the science-proven benefits of safflower oil.

1. A source of fatty acids

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

This type of “healthy” fats are  involved in hormonal regulation, in memory processes as well as in the absorption of vitamins A, D, E and K.  In addition, they are able to offer a greater feeling of satiety. .

On the other hand, safflower oil also contains saturated fat, which is often considered unhealthy or bad. Nevertheless, their levels are much lower than in other popular oils such as olive, avocado, or sunflower oil.

Plus, eating a diet high in healthy fats and low in bad fats is key to many health benefits. For example, reducing inflammation and improving heart health.

2. Stabilization of blood sugar levels

A research published in the journal PLoS Medicine has shown that a diet rich in monounsaturated fatty acids helps maintain blood sugar levels.

According to this study, replacing saturated fat with unsaturated fat (especially polyunsaturated fatty acids)  significantly improves blood sugar levels,  secretion and insulin resistance.

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

Therefore, the researchers conclude that the combination of a diet rich in healthy fats with treatments for diabetes is effective in reducing the complications specific to the disease.

3. Lower cholesterol levels and better heart health

The same study published in Clinical Nutrition found that using safflower oil for 4 months reduced cholesterol levels. This then certifies that unsaturated fats can lower LDL or bad cholesterol.

However, this oil is also involved in heart health because unsaturated fatty acids cause platelets to aggregate less. This prevents the formation of clots associated with an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

4. A natural anti-inflammatory

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

5. Improved skin health

Because it helps hydrate and soothe itching, along with other symptoms of dry skin, safflower oil  is a popular ingredient in skin care products.

It actually 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. Vitamin E also improves wound healing.

Side effects of safflower oil

Safflower oil is safe as long as the recommended doses are not exceeded. In adults, these are the following:

• Women between 19 and 30: six teaspoons.
• Women over 30: five teaspoons.
• Men between 19 and 30 years old: seven teaspoons.
• Men over 30: six teaspoons.

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

Regarding its topical use,  it is preferable to carry out a preliminary test to determine the degree of sensitivity of the skin. To do this, apply a small amount on the forearm and wait between 24 and 48 hours. If no rash or irritation develops, you can continue to use it.

Safflower oil: an important source of unsaturated fats

Traditionally,  this plant was cultivated for later use as a dye. But today, the focus is on its seeds which make it possible to obtain a much coveted oil.

Why? Because it is rich in unsaturated fatty acids and can come in two forms: monounsaturated (able to withstand high temperatures without losing its nutrients) and polyunsaturated (the oil richest in linoleic acid on the market).

These unsaturated fats, along with the other components, are responsible for benefits such as blood sugar control, lowering LDL cholesterol, and improving skin health.

Finally, regarding contraindications, safflower oil is considered safe as long as the recommended doses are respected  and a prior topical test has been carried out. In addition, people with bleeding problems and about to undergo surgery should avoid its consumption.