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Safflower Oil is good for the heart, blood vessels, hair, skin, muscles and immune system. It lowers cholesterol levels, prevents, stroke, atherosclerosis, clotting disorders and heart diseases. It helps to manage hyperglycemia, reduces weight and gives relief from symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. It also increases immunity, so it reduces the frequency of infections. In respiratory diseases, it loosens phlegm and acts as an expectorant, so it helps to clear the lungs and eases breathing.
Safflower Oil is extracted from the Safflower seeds (seeds of Carthamus Tinctorius). The seeds are white and contain a high amount of proteins and good fat. The oil extracted from safflower seeds is colorless and flavorless. Its nutritional value is comparable to sunflower oil. There are two types of edible oil one contains monounsaturated fatty acid (oleic acid) and second contains polyunsaturated fatty acids (high linoleic). It contains less saturated fatty acids than olive oil. So, it is a better replacement for less healthy vegetable oils with affordable price.
Safflower seed oil contains a significant amount of Vitamin E that is more than olive oil, but less than sunflower oil. It contains a good amount of Omega 6 fatty acid, so it is heart-healthy oil. Like olive oil, it is hot in potency, which means it increases heat in the body, so it is best suitable during winters and beneficial for people living in cold places. It improves metabolic rate, increases lean muscle mass, and supports fat loss.
Types of Safflower Oil
Safflower oil is prepared from untreated and treated seeds. Untreated seeds are bitter in taste. The oil extracted from untreated seeds is used in the production of linoleum floor tile, soap, paint solvent etc. This oil is not edible.
Treated seeds are further two types and both are edible. One contains monounsaturated fatty acids and second contains polyunsaturated fatty acids.
| Monounsaturated Safflower Oil (Oleic Variety) | Polyunsaturated Safflower Oil (Linoleic Variety) |
| High in oleic acid | High in linoleic acid |
| Shelf-stable (long shelf life) | Not Shelf-stable |
| Suitable for cooking at high temperatures like deep fry | Not suitable for cooking; on cooking it becomes rancid |
| It can be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry and dark place. | Kept in the Refrigerator |
| Generally, used in cooking | Generally used for salad dressings |
| Smoke Point: 509 degrees | – |
Nutrition Facts & Chemical Composition
| Nutrients | Monounsaturated Safflower Oil (oleic ≥ 70%) per 100 grams | Polyunsaturated Safflower Oil (Linoleic ≥ 70%) per 100 grams |
| Calories | 884 | 884 |
| Calories from Fats | 884 | 884 |
| Carbohydrates | 0 | 0 |
| Proteins | 0 | 0 |
| Fats | 100 grams | 100 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 6.2 grams | 6.2 grams |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 74.6 grams | 14.4 grams |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 14.3 grams | 74.6 grams |
| Trans Fat | – | – |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | – | – |
| Omega-6 Fatty acids | 14350 mg | 74615 mg |
| Vitamin E (Alpha Tocopherol) | 34.1 mg | 34.1 mg |
| Vitamin K | 7.1 mcg | 7.1 mcg |
| Phytosterols | 444 mg | 444 mg |
Polyunsaturated Safflower Oil contains more Omega-6 Fatty acids than Monounsaturated Safflower Oil. (1, 2)
According to nutritional analysis shown in above table, itt is a rich source of omega-6 fatty acids. In addition, it contains α-, β-, and γ-tocopherols, γ- and δ-tocotrienols. Alpha-tocopherol is a major tocopherol found in it. (3)
Polyunsaturated Safflower Oil contains linoleic acid ranges from 55 to 77% with a mean value of 70.66%. The tocopherol content in it is shown in the table underneath: (4)
| α-tocopherol | 46.05 to 70.93 mg/100 g |
| β-tocopherol | 0.85 to 2.16 mg/100 g |
| γ-tocopherol | Trace to 0.45 mg/100 g |
Fatty acids content in Safflower oil is given below: (4, 5, 6, 7, 8)
| Fatty Acids | Range for high-oleic Safflower Oil (Monounsaturated) | Range for high linoleic Safflower Oil (Polyunsaturated) |
| Palmitic acid – C16:0 | 4 – 9% | 2.2 to 5.8% |
| Palmitoleic acid – C16:1 | Trace | Trace |
| Stearic acid – C18:0 | Trace – 2.5% | 1 to 4% |
| Oleic acid – C18:1 | 72 – 80 % | 12% |
| Linoleic acid – C18:2 | 12 – 16% | 55 to 77% (Average: 70.66%) |
| Linolenic acid – C18:3 | Trace – 0.5% | Trace |
| Myristic acid – C14:0 | Trace | 0.3 to 0.7% |
| Arachidic acid – C20:0 | Trace | 0.1 to 0.3% |
| Margaric acid – C17 | – | 0.02 to 0.03% |
| Margaoliec acid – C17:1 | – | 0 to 0.02% |
| Ecosenoic – C20:1 | – | 0.17 to 0.19% |
| Behenic – C22:0 | – | 0.24 to 0.25% |
| Lignoceric acid – C24:0 | – | 0.10 to 0.11% |
Medicinal Properties
Safflower Oil has following healing properties:
- Anti-atherogenic
- Antihyperlipidemic
- Cardioprotective
- Anti-ischemic
- Anti-thrombotic
- Immunomodulatory
- Antioxidant
- Anti-Diabetic
- Antihyperglycemic
- Anti-obesity
- Metabolic stimulant
- Mild laxative
- Wound healing enhancer
Indications
Safflower Oil is helpful in following health conditions:
- Hypercholesterolemia – High cholesterol levels
- Atherosclerosis
- Diabetes
- Obesity – for losing weight
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
- Hair fall (high-oleic oil)
- Acne (high-linoleic oil)
- Blemishes (high-linoleic oil)
Safflower Oil Benefits & Medicinal Uses
Safflower Oil is a heart-healthy oil and available in two varieties – high-oleic safflower oil and high-linoleic safflower oil. Both are good for the heart and lowering cholesterol level. The omega-6 in them helps to improve cognition. High linoleic safflower oil is beneficial in skin conditions and useful in acne and blemishes.
Hypercholesterolemia (High Cholesterol levels)
Both varieties (high-oleic and high-linoleic) of safflower oil reduces cholesterol level. Both are low in saturated fat and both contain linoleic acid (shortest-chained omega-6 fatty acid). However, polyunsaturated oil contains its higher amount. Linoleic Acid (LA) lowers LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and protects blood vessels and heart. (9, 10)
Atherosclerosis
Safflower oil also lowers the risk of atherosclerosis by reducing total serum cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) also prevent atherosclerosis by reducing inflammation and pro-inflammatory conditions. (11)
Inflammation occurs in blood vessels in response to oxidized LDL cholesterol, infections, and several other factors. Oil is a rich source of PUFA, which ultimately helps to prevent atherosclerosis by two mechanisms – lowering LDL cholesterol and reducing inflammation.
Stroke & Heart Attack
With similar mechanisms discussed under hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis, it also prevents strokes and heart attacks. In addition, it also possesses anti-ischemic and anti-thrombotic properties, which also helps to prevent ischemia and formation of thrombus in the blood vessels.
Diabetes
According to study from Ohio State University, Safflower oil lowers HbA1c. It might improve blood glucose metabolism, but the effects were not significant. There were no significant effect observed on fasting blood glucose, postprandial blood glucose, and insulin sensitivity. (12)
The claims made for Safflower oil that it lowers fasting blood sugar level or increases insulin sensitivity are not appropriate, not much significant, and not yet acceptable due to lack of strong evidence.
Obesity – Weight Loss
The same study discussed under ‘diabetes’ suggests the daily intake of 8 grams safflower oil reduces abdominal fat. The study was in comparison to Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA). It was also noted that safflower seed oil did not significantly reduce overall weight. CLA was better to reduce overall weight. However, the trunk adiposity (abdominal fat) was significantly reduced with safflower oil whereas trunk adiposity was significantly increased with CLA. It was also observed that safflower seed oil increased overall lean mass whereas CLA reduced overall lean mass. (12)
However, the participants were postmenopausal women suffering from diabetes type-2. The effects of safflower oil in men and young women were not observed in this study.
According to the another study conducted on CLA taking Safflower Oil as a control, there were no significant effects observed on weight of fat mass with 3 to 6 grams daily consumption of Safflower Oil for a period of 4 weeks to 6 months. (13)
If we take omega-6 in consideration, then omega-6 fatty acids are not likely to promote weight loss. Therefore, Flaxseeds and Flaxseed Oil are still better options for losing weight.
In conclusion, the current evidences don’t suggest safflower oil as a fat burner. However, it can help to shift the abdominal fat away instead of burning overall fat in the body.
Anti-inflammatory
Safflower oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which might be attributed to its Vitamin E content. (14, 15)
However, the over-consumption of omega-6 fatty acids in relation to omega-3 fatty acids can increase risk of inflammation in the body. Safflower oil contains omega-6 fatty acids, so the best results can be achievable if it is mixed with oil rich in omega-3 fatty acids. In case of cooking, mixing it with olive oil is likely to be best. Alternatively, one can also consume walnut, chia seeds, and flaxseeds for omega-3 fatty acids.
Acne
Patients with acne have a decreased concentration of linoleic acid in the skin surface lipids. It makes the sebum sticky and thick that can clog the skin pores and grow into acne. The linoleic acid helps to unclog the pores by combining with sebum. (16, 17)
The high linoleic Safflower oil can help to treat acne. Safflower oil is a rich source of linoleic acid that helps to reduce sebum accumulation under the skin and thus, reduces acne, pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads. In addition, it also acts as wound healing enhancer and prevents infections. It also promotes regeneration of the skin cells, which helps to make skin clearer and prevents the formation of acne scars.
Pruritus (Itchy Skin)
The local application of cold-pressed high-linoleic safflower oil helps to reduce intense itching sensation that occurs due to various underlying causes including skin infections, dry skin, rashes, etc. It should be applied to the affected skin 5 to 6 times a day to get relief from itchy skin. Its application should be continued for 3 to 5 days.
Wound healing
The cold-pressed high-linoleic safflower oil promotes wound healing. It is highly useful in cases of old non-healing wounds. Its regular application enhances the wound healing rate and protects the wound from infections.
Constipation
According to ayurveda, safflower seed oil helps to treat constipation. The possible mechanism includes its lubricating effect on the large intestine and mild laxative action.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
The cold-pressed high-linoleic safflower oil is helpful for regulating prostaglandins in the body due to its high linoleic acid. Therefore, it reduces sudden hormonal fluctuations. Ultimately, it reduces the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
How much Safflower Oil should I take a day?
The World Health Organization recommends 5-8% energy from omega-6 fatty acid. According to this, an adult can take 6 to 10 grams high-linoleic safflower seed oil daily.
Safety Profile
Safflower seed oil is likely safe for everyone as a part of food or dietary supplement when taken in an appropriate amount.
Safflower Oil Side Effects
It has blood thinning effects, so it can slow blood clotting.
Safflower Oil Allergy
If you are allergic to ragweed and plants in Asteraceae family, then you are also likely to be allergic to safflower and its oil. The common symptoms of safflower seed oil allergy are:
- Sneezing
- A runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- eye irritation
- Sinus headaches
- Post-nasal drip
- Skin rashes
- Hives
- Difficulty breathing
Pregnancy & Lactation
Safflower oil is possibly safe for pregnant women when taken as a food in an appropriate amount that can be easily digested.
The safety profile of Safflower oil for lactating mothers is unknown.
Contraindications
Safflower oil should not be used in the following health conditions:
- hemorrhagic diseases
- Peptic ulcers
- Ulcerative colitis
- Clotting disorders
- Surgery – 2 weeks before or after surgery
Important Facts about Safflower
| Botanical Name | Carthamus Tinctorius |
| Family | Asteraceae (sunflowers or tournesols) |
| Common Name | Safflower |
| Other Names | Bastard Saffron, Parrot Seeds |
| Hindi Name | Kusumba, Kusum, Kusuma |
Note:
- ‘Kusum’ is also Hindi name of Ceylon Oak – Syn. Lac Tree (Schleichera Oleosa – Syn. Schleichera Trijuga Willd). So, there are two types of Kusum oil available in Indian Market – Safflower oil and Kusum oil extracted from seeds of Schleichera The last is not edible and only used as an external application for treating skin diseases.
- Kusumba oil or Kusuma oil is also a type of Safflower oil. It is unprocessed, unrefined, cold-pressed, high linoleic acid higher breed safflower seed oil. It is commonly used along with Thanaka Powder for removing facial hair and acne.
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