Helianthus annuus
Everyone from very small children is familiar with the large, bright, cheery yellow flowers. Originating in North America and Mexico indigenous tribes cultivated this plant, using the seeds as a food source, eaten raw, roasted, or ground to make flour.
There is also evidence that pigments from sunflower oil were used by ancient people to make sunscreen. Sunflowers continued to be a staple in North America for 4000 years. In the early 16th century Europeans brought it back to Europe where it's food and oil-bearing potential were overlooked for some 200 years and it was grown as an ornamental flower and used medicinally as an anti-inflammatory.
The anti-inflammatory properties of this oil make it ideal for many skin conditions where the skin becomes inflamed. And its light nature means it is easily absorbed.
Vitamin E is naturally abundant in sunflower seed, oil this not only serves to protect the oil from oxidative damage but helps protect the collagen and elastin in the skin, supporting the ageing process. This light and golden oil is also high in vitamin A, a potent antioxidant and like vitamin E helps regenerate the skin cells.
Its molecular structure and enzyme activity make it perfect for decongesting pores and minimising their appearance by attaching to our own oxidised oils. The enzymes present also act as a food source for own natural skin microbiome, strengthening the protective barrier of our skin. The tannins present have astringent properties to further support tightening of the pore walls and skin tissues in general.
Lusan sunflower seed oil is certified organic and cold pressed to preserve the beneficial plant compounds.
