Helianthus Annus
SUNFLOWER (Helianthus annus)
Sunflowers are striking additions to a summer garden, and are abundant in fields and roadsides in many parts of the U.S. They look happy. In the West and Southwest they grow as wild flowers. There are nearly 100 different varieties. The giant, mammoth variety is grown commercially in Russia, too. Sunflower is used in several forms beyond the garden, like many of our beloved flowers.
The Herb
Sunflower isn’t exactly used as a whole herb. But, the seed is used extensively. Birds love it. So do bees, cows, and chickens. This humble tiny seed is rich in vitamins, especially E and the B’s, and in minerals including magnesium, iron, calcium, selenium and zinc. It is considered cholesterol lowering, beneficial to cardiovascular health, diuretic, and expectorant. The whole seeds are roasted and salted, while the shelled seeds are often kept raw and organic for the discerning culinary folks and health conscious eaters. Steeped teas or decoctions of Sunflower seeds may be used, but more often they are eaten alone, or baked into breads, cakes, cookies, and crackers. The flower itself is used to make a fine yellow dye for textiles.
The Oil
Sunflower oil isn’t really used in aromatherapy as an essential oil, but rather as a cosmetic and culinary oil. The pressed and sometimes refined sunflower oil is used in the kitchen as a great polyunsaturated oil. Cosmetic use in adults is for dry, weathered skin where this oil moisturizes and softens. In babies with low birth weights or preemies, sunflower oil provides a safe skin protectant for their immature systems.
The Essence
Sunflower flower essence increases our conscious contact with God. For people who are feeling separated from God, or for those wanting to strengthen their connection to God, Sunflower will benefit. Sunflower can ease feelings of separation, loneliness, suicidal ideation, or the sense of existential angst. In addiction recovery any of these circumstances might be helped with Sunflower, including feeling angry or persecuted about life…blaming God…unanswered prayers. To affirm Sunflower is to affirm that we are one with the Spirit of Life.