Quick Search
Sunflower Seed Oil is used as a source of polyunsaturated fat in the diet.
People use Sunflower Seed Oil for high cholesterol and preventing heart disease.
Sunflower Seed Oil is also used for high blood pressure, eczema, dry mouth, dry skin, and many other conditions.
CAS Number: 8001-21-6
EC Number: 232-273-9
MDL number: MFCD00132403
Composition:
Mainly triglycerides of fatty acids.
Typical fatty acid profile:
Linoleic acid (C18:2): 48–74%
Oleic acid (C18:1): 14–39%
Palmitic acid (C16:0): 4–9%
Stearic acid (C18:0): 1–7%
Molecular Formula: Variable (mixture of triglycerides; general formula C₅₅H₉₈O₆ for major component triolein)
Molecular Weight: ~885 g/mol (average for main triglyceride components)
SYNONYMS:
Helianthus annuus Seed Oil, Sunflower Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Sunflower Oil (IFRA), Sunflower Oil, expressed
Sunflower Seed Oil is the non-volatile oil pressed from the seeds of the sunflower (Helianthus annuus).
Sunflower Seed Oil is commonly used in food as a frying oil, and in cosmetic formulations as an emollient.
Sunflower Seed Oil is primarily composed of linoleic acid, a polyunsaturated fat, and oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat.
Through selective breeding and manufacturing processes, oils of differing proportions of the fatty acids are produced.
The expressed oil has a neutral taste profile.
The oil contains a large amount of vitamin E.
Worldwide, there are around 70 different species of sunflower—the most well-known is the common sunflower, or Helianthus annus.
Sunflower Seed Oil is the oil extracted from the flower’s edible seeds.
Sunflower Seed Oil’s light yellow in color and has a mild taste, making it a popular cooking oil in much of the world.
Aside from its culinary uses, Sunflower Seed Oil is often used in body care products, including soaps.
Sunflower Seed Oil’s rich in vitamin E and contains an array of fatty acids, including linoleic acid (which also occurs naturally within the skin).
Sunflower Seed Oil is pressed from the seeds of the sunflower plant (Helianthus annuus).
Sunflower Seed Oil contains high amounts of the essential fatty acid, linoleic acid.
Some sunflowers are grown to contain high amounts of oleic acid.
Sunflower Seed Oil that comes from these plants is called high-oleic acid Sunflower Seed Oil.
USES and APPLICATIONS of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
Culinary uses of Sunflower Seed Oil: Cooking oil; variants used for frying, sautéing, salad dressings; high-oleic types favored for stability.
Traditional & Therapeutic Uses of Sunflower Seed Oil: Topically used for wound healing and skin inflammation; studied for eczema, psoriasis support.
Industrial / Other uses of Sunflower Seed Oil: Biofuel feedstock (biodiesel), emulsifier in formulations, fungicide (e.g., EU “basic substance” for crop use).
Sunflower seed oil is not just for cooking; it has a variety of uses that cater to both dietary and non-dietary needs.
Its versatility makes Sunflower Seed Oil a valuable addition to any kitchen or beauty regimen.
Cooking: Ideal for frying, baking, and sautéing due to Sunflower Seed Oil's high smoke point.
This means you can cook at higher temperatures without the oil breaking down and releasing harmful compounds.
Salad dressings: The mild flavor of sunflower seed oil makes it perfect for homemade salad dressings, enhancing the taste of fresh vegetables without overpowering them.
Skin moisturizer: When applied topically, sunflower seed oil can hydrate and soften the skin, thanks to its vitamin E content.
This benefit is particularly appealing for those with dry skin.
Hair conditioner: Sunflower seed oil can be used as a natural hair conditioner to add shine and reduce frizz.
Its light texture doesn't weigh hair down, making Sunflower Seed Oil suitable for all hair types.
Carrier oil for essential oils: In aromatherapy, sunflower seed oil serves as an excellent carrier oil for diluting essential oils before they are applied to the skin, ensuring safe and effective use.
Makeup remover: Its gentle nature makes sunflower seed oil an effective makeup remover that can dissolve even waterproof makeup without irritating the skin.
Dietary supplement: For those looking to boost their intake of vitamin E and healthy fats, consuming sunflower seed oil as part of a balanced diet can contribute to overall health.
Base for DIY skincare products: Sunflower seed oil can be used as a base ingredient in homemade skincare products like lip balms, lotions, and scrubs, offering a natural alternative to commercial products.
By incorporating sunflower seed oil into your daily routine, you can enjoy its numerous benefits in a variety of ways.
Seed meal uses of Sunflower Seed Oil: Extraction of Sunflower Seed Oil leaves behind the crushed seeds, typically referred to as seed meal, which is rich in protein and dietary fiber and used as an animal feed, fertilizer or fuel.
Supplements uses of Sunflower Seed Oil: Sunflower Seed Oil dietary supplements have been marketed for treatment of eczema, but research has shown it is not medically effective.
Sunflower Seed Oil is commonly used in food as a frying oil, and in cosmetic formulations as an emollient.
Sunflower Seed Oil's used as a source of polyunsaturated fat in the diet.
People use Sunflower Seed Oil for high cholesterol and preventing heart disease.
Sunflower Seed Oil is also used for high blood pressure, eczema, dry mouth, dry skin, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
-Sunflower Seed Oil is used as fuel:
Sunflower Seed Oil can be used to run diesel engines when mixed with diesel in the tank.
Due to the high levels of unsaturated fats, there is higher viscosity in cold temperatures.
-Cosmetics industry uses of Sunflower Seed Oil:
PEG-10 sunflower glycerides, a pale yellow liquid with a "slightly fatty" odor, are the polyethylene glycol derivative of the mono- and diglycerides derived from sunflower seed oil with an average of 10 moles of ethylene oxide.
PEG-10 sunflower glycerides are commonly used in cosmetic formulations.
-Horticulture uses of Sunflower Seed Oil:
In the European Union Sunflower Seed Oil can be sprayed onto tomato crops as a fungicide to control powdery mildew from Oidium neolycopersici.
For this use, Sunflower Seed Oil is classified as a 'basic substance' that can be used on both organic and conventional farms.
-Health uses of Sunflower Seed Oil:
Cosmetics & Personal Care: Emollient, moisturizer, non-comedogenic carrier oil—Sunflower Seed Oil is used in creams, serums, lip care, anti-aging products.
Sunflower Seed Oil enhances skin barrier, hydrates, soothes sensitive or acne-prone skin.
-In food preparation:
Refined Sunflower Seed Oil is used for low-to-extremely-high-temperature cooking.
As a frying oil, Sunflower Seed Oil behaves as a typical vegetable oil, and is used in sunflower butter.
Methods for cooking snack foods, such as potato chips or French fries, may use Sunflower Seed Oil.
USES & EFFECTIVENESS of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
*Heart disease.
Using high-oleic acid Sunflower Seed Oil instead of other dietary fats and oils higher in saturated fat might reduce the risk for heart disease.
The US FDA allows high-oleic acid Sunflower Seed Oil products to make this claim on their product labels.
*High cholesterol.
Consuming Sunflower Seed Oil in the diet might reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad") cholesterol levels in some people.
*High blood pressure.
Taking Sunflower Seed Oil by mouth doesn't seem to lower blood pressure in people with high blood pressure.
There is interest in using Sunflower Seed Oil for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.
Today, Sunflower Seed Oil is a food, a medicine, and a skin treatment.
Sunflower Seed Oil is available in several forms, each with a different formula and with its own health benefits.
Sunflower Seed Oil is a popular vegetable oil in the kitchen because of its neutral flavor and high smoke point.
WHY IS SUNFLOWER SEED OIL USED IN THE FOOD INDUSTRY?
The food industry uses oils rich in omega-6 to produce most foods.
Although more expensive than other oils such as soybean oil, Sunflower Seed Oil does not require hydrogenation, has no trans-fats, has low monounsaturated fat, and has a neutral taste.
Sunflower Seed Oil is also more durable than most other vegetable oils when used in industrial frying.
Healthy, natural Sunflower Seed Oil is produced from oil type sunflower seeds.
Sunflower Seed Oil is light in taste and appearance and supplies more Vitamin E than any other vegetable oil.
Sunflower Seed Oil is a combination of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats with low saturated fat levels.
The versatility of this healthy oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, is recognized by cooks internationally.
Sunflower Seed Oil is valued for its light taste, frying performance and health benefits.
There are two types of Sunflower Seed Oil available; linoleic and high oleic Sunflower Seed Oil.
Both are developed with standard breeding techniques.
They differ in oleic levels and each one offers unique properties.
With two types of Sunflower Seed Oil available, Sunflower Seed Oil meets the needs of consumer and food manufacturers alike for a healthy and high performance non-transgenic vegetable oil.
TYPES of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
a hand is holding a bottle with a drop of oil coming out of it
Sunflower seed oil comes in different types, each with its unique properties and health benefits.
The most common types are high-oleic, mid-oleic, and high-linoleic Sunflower Seed Oil.
This type of oil is particularly beneficial for those focused on cardiovascular health, as it supports heart function without compromising taste or cooking performance.
Mid-oleic Sunflower Seed Oil offers a balanced approach with moderate levels of both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
This versatility makes it suitable for various cooking methods, from baking to frying, providing a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.
High-linoleic Sunflower Seed Oil is abundant in polyunsaturated fats, specifically omega-6 fatty acids.
While these fats are essential for the body, balance is key since excessive intake of omega-6s can lead to inflammation and other health issues.
Therefore, high-linoleic Sunflower Seed Oil is best used in moderation and as part of a diet that also includes omega-3 fatty acids to maintain a healthy balance.
Each type of sunflower seed oil has its specific use and benefits.
For instance, high-oleic Sunflower Seed Oil's stability at high temperatures makes it ideal for cooking at high heat.
In contrast, the more delicate nature of high-linoleic Sunflower Seed Oil suits cold dishes like salads better.
Understanding these differences can help you make informed choices about which type of sunflower seed oil to incorporate into their diets based on their health goals and cooking needs.
NUTRITION INFORMATION of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
One tablespoon of Sunflower Seed Oil contains:
*Calories: 120
*Protein: 0 grams
*Fat: 14 grams
*Carbohydrates: 0 grams
*Fiber: 0 grams
*Sugar: 0 grams
Sunflower Seed Oil is also a good source of these vitamins:
*Vitamin E
*Vitamin K
Sunflower seed oil is a popular choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and for good reason.
Sunflower Seed Oil's packed with nutrients that offer several health benefits, making it a versatile addition to any diet.
High-oleic Sunflower Seed Oil, in particular, is celebrated for its heart health benefits due to its rich content of monounsaturated fats.
These fats help normalize cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of heart disease.
This makes high-oleic Sunflower Seed Oil an excellent option for individuals focused on cardiovascular health.
Additionally, Sunflower Seed Oil is beneficial for skin care.
Its high vitamin E content acts as an antioxidant, protecting skin cells from damage caused by free radicals.
This can lead to healthier-looking skin when Sunflower Seed Oil is applied topically.
For busy professionals and parents who may not always have time for extensive skincare routines, incorporating Sunflower Seed Oil can be a simple yet effective way to maintain skin health.
The immunity-boosting properties of Sunflower Seed Oil are another significant benefit.
Vitamin E also supports the body's defense system by safeguarding immune cells from harm.
This can contribute to a stronger immune system, helping you stay healthy amidst your busy schedule.
In summary, sunflower seed oil offers multiple health benefits that align with the needs of health-conscious individuals.
Whether you're looking to support heart health, improve your skin's appearance, or boost your immune system, incorporating sunflower seed oil into your diet could be a beneficial step towards achieving your wellness goals.
SUNFLOWER SEED OIL EXTRACTION METHODS:
a small glass bowl filled with a yellow liquid
Just as sunflower seed oil comes in different types, sunflower seed oil is also extracted using various methods, each with differing impacts on health.
***Physical Extraction: Expeller Pressed
When it comes to extracting oil from sunflower seeds, the method used plays a crucial role in determining the quality and health benefits of the final product.
One such method is expeller pressing, a mechanical process that physically squeezes oil out of the seeds without using chemical solvents.
This technique is particularly significant for producing high-oleic sunflower seed oil, a variant rich in oleic acid.
Oleic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid known for its positive effects on heart health.
Moreover, high-oleic oils have a longer shelf life and are more stable when exposed to heat, making them an excellent choice for cooking.
For an oil to be certified organic by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), it must meet stringent requirements, including being extracted without chemical solvents like hexane.
USDA-certified organic oils are guaranteed to be free from synthetic additives and processed in a manner that supports ecological balance and promotes biodiversity conservation.
***Chemical Extraction: Hexane
Hexane is commonly used in solvent extraction methods due to its efficiency in separating oil from seeds.
However, this chemical solvent is not without its drawbacks.
Classified as a neurotoxin and derived from petroleum, hexane poses significant health risks upon exposure.
It can lead to neurological problems in humans and has detrimental effects on wildlife and ecosystems where it is released as a pollutant.
The use of hexane in oil extraction raises concerns about both human health and environmental sustainability.
By choosing expeller-pressed methods over solvent-based ones, consumers can avoid the potential hazards associated with hexane exposure.
This choice also reflects a commitment to supporting environmentally friendly practices and ensuring the production of high-quality oils that are beneficial for both personal health and the well-being of our planet.
POTENTIAL HEALTH BENEFITS of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
Sunflower Seed Oil has many health benefits because it is low in saturated fat and high in two types of fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids and monounsaturated fatty acids.
Polyunsaturated fatty acids, or PUFAs, include omega-3s and omega-6s.
PUFAs can reduce cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, especially when substituted for less-healthy fats.
Monounsaturated fatty acids, or MUFAs, also appear in Sunflower Seed Oil.
MUFAs may reduce heart disease.
MUFAs in olive oil help make the Mediterranean diet healthy.
There are a few different types of Sunflower Seed Oil you can choose from.
Sunflower Seed Oil can be high in oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid, or it can be high in linoleic acid, a polyunsaturated fatty acid, or it can be somewhere in between.
A high oleic Sunflower Seed Oil is more frequently sold, since it is more stable for cooking.
***Heart Health
Monounsaturated fats, such as those found in high oleic Sunflower Seed Oil, are good for heart health.
In one study, MUFAs increased HDL, the "good" cholesterol.
Study subjects also had lower levels of inflammation.
The Food and Drug Administration supports the health claim that oils containing at least 70% oleic acid may reduce coronary heart disease.
Reasons You're Not Losing Weight
***Linoleic Acid for Heart Health
Linoleic acid, the other unsaturated fat in Sunflower Seed Oil, can also benefit your heart’s health.
The American Heart Association performed a review of studies and concluded that linoleic acid lowers the risk of coronary heart disease.
The Association suggests that consumers get 5-10% of their calories from linoleic acid.
That translates to about 100 to 200 calories a day in a 2000-calorie a day diet.
***Brain and Nerve Health
Sunflower Seed Oil is also an excellent source for vitamin E.
Many studies suggest that a healthy source of vitamin E in your diet could provide many health bonuses.
Some evidence suggests it may slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
A deficiency of vitamin E can cause nerve pain.
Vitamin E from food sources is more effective than from a supplement.
BENEFITS & CHARACTERISTICS of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
**Heart-Healthy Lipids:
High unsaturated fatty acid content; replacing saturated fats may reduce LDL cholesterol and support cardiovascular health.
**Vitamin E – Antioxidant:
Sunflower Seed Oil provides oxidation protection and contributes to skin and dietary antioxidant activity.
**Skin & Hair Care:
Emollient and hydrating;
Sunflower Seed Oil strengthens skin barrier and retains moisture.
Sunflower Seed Oil supports wound healing—all while calming inflammation.
High-oleic formulations are gentle for everyday skincare.
**Anti-Inflammatory:
Linoleic acid aids in reducing redness, soothing eczema/psoriasis markers, and maintaining epidermal integrity.
COMPOSITION of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
Sunflower Seed Oil is mainly a triglyceride.
The British Pharmacopoeia lists the following profile:
*Palmitic acid (saturated): 5%
*Stearic acid (saturated): 6%
*Oleic acid (monounsaturated omega-9): 30%
*Linoleic acid (polyunsaturated omega-6): 59%
Four types of Sunflower Seed Oils with differing concentrations of fatty acids are produced through plant breeding and industrial processing: high-linoleic (conventional), high-oleic, mid-oleic, and high-stearic combined with high-oleic.
*High-linoleic, 69% linoleic acid
*High-oleic, 82% oleic acid
*Mid-oleic, 65% oleic acid
*High-stearic with high-oleic, 18% stearic acid and 72% oleic acid
GENOME of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
A 2017 genome analysis provided a basis for the development of hybrid sunflowers to increase oil production.
Analysis of the sunflower genome duplication – starting about 29 million years ago – revealed two major breeding traits: flowering time and oil metabolism, which can be cultivated to improve the commercialization of Sunflower Seed Oil.
In further analysis of the sunflower genome to reveal plant metabolism producing its oil, phytosterols and other phytochemicals, such as polyphenols, squalene, and terpenoids, were identified.
HISTORY of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
After the domestication of the sunflower (3000 BC), the Native Americans obtained and used oil from the seeds.
In the modern era, Sunflower Seed Oil was first used in food in Russia.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine that began in 2022 caused global prices of Sunflower Seed Oil to increase by as much as 58% in a single month in 2022.
PRODUCTION of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
In 2022, world production of Sunflower Seed Oil was 20.3 million tonnes, led by Russia and Ukraine, which together accounted for 55% of the total.
NUTRITION of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
Sunflower Seed Oil is 100% fat.
In a reference amount of 100 grams (ml), it supplies 884 calories, and is a rich source of vitamin E.
Several varieties of Sunflower Seed Oil seeds have been developed by standard plant breeding methods, mainly to vary the amounts of oleic acid and linoleic acid which, respectively, are the predominantly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in Sunflower Seed Oil.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
Sunflower Seed Oil is liquid at room temperature.
The refined oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, is clear and slightly amber-colored with a slightly fatty odour.
PREPARATION AND STORAGE of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
Because Sunflower Seed Oil is primarily composed of less-stable polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, it can be particularly susceptible to degradation by heat, air, and light, which trigger and accelerate oxidation.
Keeping Sunflower Seed Oil at low temperatures during manufacturing and storage can help minimize rancidity and nutrient loss—as can storage in bottles that are made of either darkly-colored glass, or plastic that has been treated with an ultraviolet light protectant.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL FOR SKIN?
As we mentioned earlier, Sunflower Seed Oil boasts multiple beauty benefits when used topically.
Here, we’ll break down some of the most noteworthy Sunflower Seed Oil skin benefits.
*Sunflower Seed Oil Helps Support The Skin’s Natural Moisture Barrier
One of the biggest boons of Sunflower Seed Oil is that, when used topically, it can help support (and in some cases, restore) the skin’s natural moisture barrier.
Having an intact skin barrier is essential for healthy-looking skin, but this barrier can become compromised after exposure to stressors like harsh weather, chemicals, or even improper skincare.
The linoleic acid in Sunflower Seed Oil penetrates the skin easily and helps keep the skin’s barrier nourished and protected from external stressors.
Many plant oils contain linoleic acid, but Sunflower Seed Oil contains an exceptionally high amount—roughly 70 to 80%.
Experts believe this is why Sunflower Seed Oil is so beneficial for skin barrier protection and repair.
*Sunflower Seed Oil Helps Prevent Skin Dehydration
Water is an essential component of the skin’s natural moisture barrier.
Without sufficient water, the skin can get dehydrated, which leaves it vulnerable to concerns like dullness and laxity.
Enter: Sunflower Seed Oil.
When applied topically, Sunflower Seed Oil can help reduce trans-epidermal water loss (dermatologist-speak for dehydration) and thus help keep the skin hydrated.
*Sunflower Seed Oil Can Help Make Your Skin Feel Softer and Smoother
Generally speaking, there are three main classes of moisturizers: Humectants, which draw water into the skin; occlusives, which trap water in the skin; and emollients, which fill the gaps between skin cells to give the skin a smoother feel.
Sunflower Seed Oil falls into the latter category.
It can help soften and smooth dry, rough skin while helping to protect it against further damage.
*Sunflower Seed Oil Has Antioxidant Properties
We noted earlier that Sunflower Seed Oil is rich in vitamin E.
This naturally-occurring vitamin is an antioxidant, and when used topically, Sunflower Seed Oil can help protect your skin from aging stressors like sun exposure, air pollution, and even stress.
DAILY REVIVING CONCENTRATE of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
Bolster your morning skincare routine with Daily Reviving Concentrate, a lightweight facial oil made with sunflower seed oil, tamanu oil, and ginger root essential oil.
The antioxidant-rich formula helps defend against free radicals and works to improve the visible signs of fatigue for skin that looks fresh and radiant.
Plus, Sunflower Seed Oil’s non-comedogenic and suitable for all skin types—even oily skin.
Simply pat a few drops onto your face after moisturizing for energized, healthy-looking skin.
METHODS OF EXTRACTION of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
Sunflower Seed Oil can be extracted using chemical solvents (e.g., hexane), or expeller pressing (i.e., squeezed directly from sunflower seeds by crushing them).
"Cold-pressing" (or expeller pressing) sunflower seeds under low-temperature conditions is a method that does not use chemical solvents to derive sunflower seed oil.
*Refined versus unrefined
Refining Sunflower Seed Oil through solvent extraction, de-gumming, neutralization, and bleaching can make it more stable and suitable for high-temperature cooking, but doing so will also remove some of the oil's nutrients, flavor, color (resulting in a pale-yellow), free fatty acids, phospholipids, polyphenols, and phytosterols.
Also, some of the polyunsaturated fatty acids will be converted into trans fat due to the high temperatures involved in the process.
Unrefined Sunflower Seed Oil is less heat-stable (and therefore well-suited to dishes that are raw, or cooked at low temperatures), but it will retain more of its original nutrient content, flavor, and color (light-amber).
FACTS of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
A pile of sunflower seeds on a wooden surface
Sunflower seed oil is extracted from the seeds of the sunflower plant, Helianthus annuus, a process that yields an oil rich in various nutrients.
Sunflower Seed Oil is predominantly known for its high content of unsaturated fats, which are essential for maintaining a healthy body.
The type of Sunflower Seed Oil—high-oleic, mid-oleic, or high-linoleic—determines its specific health benefits and culinary uses.
High-oleic Sunflower Seed Oil contains monounsaturated fats that can help optimize cholesterol levels.
This type of fat is beneficial for heart health as Sunflower Seed Oil aids in reducing bad cholesterol levels and increasing good cholesterol levels.
For individuals focused on cardiovascular wellness, incorporating high-oleic Sunflower Seed Oil into their diet could support heart function.
Sunflower Seed Oil is also a significant source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that plays a crucial role in protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals.
This nutrient supports skin health by maintaining its barrier against environmental damage and aging.
Consumers looking to enhance their skin care routine might find Sunflower Seed Oil a valuable addition.
Despite its benefits, it's important to consume sunflower seed oil in moderation, especially the high-linoleic variety which is rich in polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acids.
A balanced intake of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids is crucial to prevent inflammation and maintain overall health.
For those seeking to diversify their dietary fat sources, alternating sunflower seed oil with oils rich in omega-3s could provide a more balanced nutritional profile.
In summary, understanding the nutritional makeup and health implications of different types of sunflower seed oil can empower consumers to make choices that support their wellness goals.
Whether used in cooking or as part of a skincare regimen, sunflower seed oil offers versatile benefits that cater to the needs of busy professionals and parents alike.
PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
CAS Number: 8001-21-6
EC Number: 232-273-9
MDL Number: MFCD00132403
UNSPSC Code: 12352200
NACRES: NA.77
Physical State: Liquid
Color: No data available
Odor: No data available
Melting Point/Freezing Point: No data available
Initial Boiling Point and Boiling Range: No data available
Flammability (Solid, Gas): No data available
Upper/Lower Flammability or Explosive Limits: No data available
Flash Point: > 110 °C
Autoignition Temperature: No data available
Decomposition Temperature: No data available
pH: No data available
Viscosity, Kinematic: No data available
Viscosity, Dynamic: No data available
Water Solubility: No data available
Partition Coefficient (n-octanol/water): No data available
Vapor Pressure: No data available
Density: 0.920 g/cm³
Relative Density: No data available
Relative Vapor Density: No data available
Particle Characteristics: No data available
Explosive Properties: No data available
Oxidizing Properties: No data available
Other Safety Information: No data available
Appearance: Clear, pale yellow oily liquid
Density (20–25 °C): ~0.90–0.92 g/mL (e.g., 0.92 g/mL @25 °C)
Refractive Index (20 °C): ~1.469–1.479
Smoke Point: Refined ~232 °C; Unrefined ~107 °C
Saponification Value: ~188–194
Iodine Value: ~120–145
Unsaponifiables: ~1.5–2.0%
Composition (Typical):
Palmitic Acid (Saturated): ~5%
Stearic Acid (Saturated): ~6%
Oleic Acid (Monounsaturated, Omega-9): ~30% (varies in high-oleic types)
Linoleic Acid (Polyunsaturated, Omega-6): ~59% (varies in high-linoleic types)
INCI Name: Helianthus annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
CAS / EC Numbers: 8001-21-6 / 232-273-9
Synonyms: Sunflower Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, etc.
Appearance: Pale yellow oily liquid
Key Components: Linoleic ~59%, Oleic ~30%, Palmitic ~5%, Stearic ~6%, plus vitamin E, sterols
Smoke Point: Refined ~232 °C; Unrefined ~107 °C
Primary Uses: Cooking, cosmetics (emollient), skincare, biodiesel, fungicide
Benefits: Cardiovascular support, antioxidant, skin hydration, anti-inflammatory
Compound Canonicalized: Yes
Appearance: Clear to pale yellow liquid (cold-pressed or refined).
CAS Number: 8001-21-6
EC Number: 232-273-9
Molecular Formula: Variable (mixture of triglycerides; general formula C₅₅H₉₈O₆ for major component triolein)
Molecular Weight: ~885 g/mol (average for main triglyceride components)
Odor: Mild, characteristic nutty aroma (refined oil may be nearly odorless).
Taste: Mild, slightly nutty (for edible grades).
Density: 0.915 – 0.925 g/cm³ at 20 °C.
Viscosity: 38 – 45 mPa·s at 40 °C (depending on grade and temperature).
Refractive Index: 1.473 – 1.476 at 20 °C.
Melting Point: -17 to -6 °C (varies with unsaturated fatty acid content).
Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling; smoke point ~227 °C (refined oil).
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, chloroform.
Color Index: 2 – 6 (for refined oil, pale yellow)
Chemical Properties
Composition:
Mainly triglycerides of fatty acids.
Typical fatty acid profile:
Linoleic acid (C18:2): 48–74%
Oleic acid (C18:1): 14–39%
Palmitic acid (C16:0): 4–9%
Stearic acid (C18:0): 1–7%
Saponification Value: 188 – 194 mg KOH/g.
Iodine Value: 120 – 145 g I₂/100 g (measure of unsaturation).
Acid Value: ≤ 0.5 mg KOH/g (refined oil).
Peroxide Value: ≤ 10 meq O₂/kg (indicates oxidation).
Unsaponifiable Matter: 1–2% (contains tocopherols, sterols, carotenoids).
Oxidative Stability: Moderate; prone to rancidity if not stored properly.
pH (if emulsion or diluted): Neutral to slightly acidic.
FIRST AID MEASURES of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
-Description of first-aid measures
*General advice:
Show this material safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
*If inhaled:
After inhalation:
Fresh air.
*In case of skin contact:
Take off immediately all contaminated clothing.
Rinse skin with
water/ shower.
*In case of eye contact:
After eye contact:
Rinse out with plenty of water.
Call in ophthalmologist.
Remove contact lenses.
*If swallowed:
After swallowing:
Immediately make victim drink water (two glasses at most).
Consult a physician.
-Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed.
No data available
ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
-Environmental precautions:
Do not let product enter drains.
-Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Cover drains.
Collect, bind, and pump off spills.
Observe possible material restrictions.
Take up dry.
Dispose of properly.
Clean up affected area.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
-Extinguishing media:
*Suitable extinguishing media:
Carbon dioxide (CO2)
Foam
Dry powder
*Unsuitable extinguishing media:
For this substance/mixture no limitations of extinguishing agents are given.
-Further information:
Prevent fire extinguishing water from contaminating surface water or the ground water system.
EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
-Control parameters:
--Ingredients with workplace control parameters:
-Exposure controls:
--Personal protective equipment:
*Eye/face protection:
Use equipment for eye protection.
Safety glasses
*Body Protection:
protective clothing
*Respiratory protection:
Recommended Filter type: Filter A
-Control of environmental exposure:
Do not let product enter drains.
HANDLING and STORAGE of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
-Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
*Storage conditions:
Tightly closed.
Dry.
STABILITY and REACTIVITY of SUNFLOWER SEED OIL:
-Chemical stability:
The product is chemically stable under standard ambient conditions (room temperature).
-Possibility of hazardous reactions:
No data available
