Ayurvedic Benefits of Sunflower Seeds

Reviewed By Experts

The seeds of the sunflower plant or Suryamukhi are highly popular as a healthy snack. Enriched with healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, sunflower seeds benefits are known to treat several diseases, such as heart problems, constipation, rheumatoid arthritis, etc. According to the sunflower seeds Ayurveda perspective, they also help balance all three Doshas and increase energy in the body. 

Nutritional Value of Sunflower Seeds

Sunflower seeds are rich in calories, fiber, healthy fats (mainly polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats), and protein. They also contain a variety of essential vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds, act as antioxidants. The content of Vitamin E is quite high in sunflower seeds. [2] The protein content aids in muscle building, making them a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Here’s the nutritional value of sunflower seeds:

Types of sunflower seeds

Three major sunflower seed types are commonly used: 

1. Linoleic sunflower seeds (most common)
2. High oleic sunflower seeds
3. Sunflower oil seeds (commercially used seeds chiefly for oil extraction)

 Each variety has its unique levels of monounsaturated, saturated, and polyunsaturated fats.

Sunflower Seeds Benefits Backed By Ayurveda

1. Lowers Inflammation

Chronic inflammation in the body can increase the risk of many diseases. Rich in anti-inflammatory properties, sunflower seeds help reduce both internal and external inflammation and prevent chronic inflammatory diseases. [1]

2. Prevents Atherosclerosis

Sunflower seeds have potent cardioprotective properties. [1] They help boost blood flow in the arteries, clear blockages and reduce the formation of plaques in the arteries, thereby preventing atherosclerosis. In addition, they also contain polyunsaturated fatty acids that exhibit anti-atherosclerosis activity. 

3. Aids in Diabetes Management

Sunflower seeds have a low glycemic index, meaning they do not cause a major spike in blood sugar levels. Furthermore, they also contain an element called chlorogenic acid, known to lower blood glucose levels in the body.  

4. Controls High Cholesterol Levels

Enriched with the power of dietary fibers, linoleic acid, and oleic acid, sunflower seeds help reduce the levels of LDL or bad cholesterol in the body. In addition, they also contain vitamin B5, which helps increase HDL or good cholesterol and reduce total serum cholesterol levels. [2]

From the Ayurvedic point of view, high cholesterol is caused due to toxin accumulation and impaired digestive fire. Sunflower seeds are known to improve digestive fire and eliminate Ama or toxins from the body, thereby controlling high cholesterol levels. 

5. Regulates Blood Pressure Levels

Sunflower seeds help eliminate the fat and cholesterol buildup in the blood vessels and promote the smooth flow of the blood. They are also powered with unsaturated fatty acids, especially linoleic acid, which is known to relax blood vessels and reduce high blood pressure levels. [2]

6. Treats Constipation

According to Ayurveda, constipation is caused due to an aggravated Vata Dosha in the body. Eating soaked sunflower seeds helps reduce dryness of the intestines and balance Vata Dosha, thereby treating constipation.

7. Boosts Immunity

The presence of vitamin E, zinc and selenium in sunflower seeds make it a perfect snack to enhance immune responses, fight free radicals, and protect the body against several infectious diseases.[4]

8. Relieves Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms

According to Ayurveda, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or Amavata is caused due to vitiated Vata Dosha and accumulation of Ama in the joints. Sunflower seeds help balance Vata Dosha, improve digestive fire, and reduce Ama, thereby helping in the management of rheumatoid arthritis. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory properties of sunflower seeds help reduce inflammation and cause long-term relief of the symptoms.  [2]

9. Improves Brain Functions

Powered with vitamin B6, sunflower seeds help improve mood, concentration, and memory. They also release serotonin and norepinephrine in your body, further enhancing brain functions. [3]

10. Enhances Skin Health

Sunflower seeds are highly effective in maintaining the glow of the skin. They are also rich in antibacterial and antifungal properties that help prevent skin infections. In addition, the oleic and linoleic acids found in sunflower seeds also help in the formation of collagen and elastin and speed up wound healing.  [1]

11. Supports female health

Certain phytochemicals in sunflower seeds can help strengthen a woman’s immune system during pregnancy. Other sunflower seeds benefits for females include the ability of the seeds to improve breast health. Selenium in the seeds can reduce the risk of breast cancer. [2]

How to use sunflower seeds?

To use sunflower seeds, crack open the shell using your teeth, separating the seed and discarding the shell. Besides snacking, there are diverse culinary uses for sunflower seeds:

1. Enhance salads with a sprinkle
2. Incorporate into trail mixes
3. Mix into oatmeal for added texture
4. Top stir-fries or veggies for a crunchy touch
5. Blend into veggie burgers or baked goods
6. Swap peanut butter for sunflower butter
7. Cook using sunflower oil in recipes instead of other oils

How to consume sunflower seeds?

1. Choose the Right Position: Place the seed between your molars, either vertically or horizontally.
2. Gently Crack Open: Apply gentle pressure to crack the shell with your teeth.
3. Remove the Seed: Once cracked, use your tongue to separate the seed from the shell.
4. Discard the Shell: Spit out the shell and avoid consuming it.
5. Enjoy the Seed: Consume the edible seed within, whether raw or roasted.

Side Effects of Excessive Consumption:

1. Digestive Issues: Overeating may result in vomiting, stomach discomfort, or constipation.
2. Allergic Reactions: Allergy-prone individuals might experience symptoms like rashes, swelling, breathing difficulties, or itching around the mouth.
3. Caloric Intake: Due to their calorie richness, overconsumption might lead to weight gain.
4. Cadmium Content: Sunflower seeds contain traces of cadmium, excessive intake may harm the kidneys.
5. Bacterial Contamination: Consumption of contaminated sprouted seeds may cause bacterial infections, such as Salmonella.

Potential Concerns for Women:

1. Weight Management: Due to their calorie density, excessive intake could contribute to weight gain.
2. Allergic Responses: In rare instances, females may experience allergic reactions.

Precautions To Keep In Mind

While Sunflower seeds offer health benefits, they are rich in calories and fats. According to research, ¼ cup of raw Sunflower seeds contains about 2014 calories, suggesting moderation to avoid potential weight gain.

Sunflower seeds Ayurveda are considered Guru (heavy) and Madhur (sweet), elevating Kapha and potentially contributing to weight gain when consumed excessively.

FAQs

Conclusion

The many sunflower seeds benefits make them one of the healthiest additions to the diet. Enriched with essential nutrients, they help prevent and treat numerous diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, constipation, rheumatoid arthritis, atherosclerosis, etc. Consuming sunflower seeds every day will help boost the overall health of your body and mind.  

Disclaimer

This article is written from a health and wellness perspective and is not medical advice. Kindly seek the help of a certified medical practitioner before initiating any treatment.

References

1. THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF SUNFLOWER SEEDS: AN OVERVIEW
2. Sunflower Seeds (Helianthus Annuus) and Health Benefits: A Review
3. The Effects of Black Mulberry Fruit Extract, Sunflower Seed, and Pumpkin Seed with Exercise on Memory Function and Neural Activation Biomarkers among Healthy Young Adults
4. Foods Boosting the Immune System -Sunflower Seeds (Helianthus Annuus)