Safflower oil, which is also known as bastard saffron, is extracted from the seeds of the Carthamus tinctorius plant and can be found in health food stores and food supplements in the form of capsules or oil.
This type of oil has the following health benefits:
- Help to lose weight, by delaying emptying of the stomach, prolonging the feeling of satiety; To act as an anti-inflammatory, because it is rich in omega-9 and vitamin E; To help reduce blood glucose, helping to control type 2 diabetes; Decrease high blood pressure, by improving blood circulation; Decrease bad cholesterol, as it is rich in phytosterols.
However, it is important to remember that these effects are only achieved when safflower oil is consumed together with a healthy diet and frequent physical activity.
How to take
To obtain its benefits, the recommended dose is 2 capsules or 2 teaspoons of safflower oil per day, preferably half an hour before or after main meals or according to the advice of a nutritionist or herbalist.
Safflower oil is good for hair
In addition to its health benefits in general, safflower oil can also be used to treat dry and brittle hair as it is rich in vitamins A, E and antioxidant fats, which work to maintain the health of hair and skin.
To obtain its benefits, you must slowly massage the scalp with safflower oil, as this will activate the local blood circulation and cause the hair root to absorb the oil, leaving the hair strands stronger and stimulating their growth. For the body, the oil works as a natural moisturizer, being quickly absorbed by the skin and helping to prevent wrinkles and cellulite. See also how to use Baru oil to lose weight and moisturize your skin and hair.
Contraindications and side effects
Safflower oil has no contraindications, but it should only be taken by children, the elderly, pregnant women and who breastfeed according to the advice of the doctor or nutritionist.
In addition, its excessive consumption can cause problems such as increased inflammation in the body, arthritis, depression and decreased good cholesterol, due to its high levels of omega-6.
Coconut oil is also rich in antioxidants and helps with weight loss, so here's how to use coconut oil in capsules.
