What Is Starflower Oil?

Starflower oil is one of the most potent natural remedies for feminine health. It's made from the seeds of starflowers, which are native to the Mediterranean region. Starflower oil has been used for centuries by women to treat their menstrual pains and other symptoms associated with PMS. It's also used to treat symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes and mood swings. 

The main component of starflower oil is gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that promotes healing and reduces inflammation throughout the body.

What Are the Best Uses of Starflower Oil

Starflower oil is most commonly used to treat menstrual cramps, PMS, and menopause symptoms. It can also be used to reduce inflammation in the body and promote overall health.

Reduces Inflammation

One of the best uses of starflower oil is to treat inflammation. This is because it contains a high concentration of GLA, an omega-6 fatty acid that promotes healing and reduces inflammation throughout the body. People suffering from diseases like arthritis or fibromyalgia may find relief when using starflower oil on their skin or taking it as a supplement.

Helps in Hormonal Imbalance

Women frequently use starflower oil to regulate their hormones. It's particularly effective at treating symptoms of PMS and menopause, but it can also help people with other hormonal imbalances such as acne or infertility.

Eases Pain of Arthritis

Starflower oil is commonly used to treat arthritis, one of the most common conditions in the world. Starflower oil helps reduce pain and inflammation by reducing swelling and improving blood flow.

Acts as a Skin Barrier

Starflower oil helps treat skin conditions that cause inflammation and irritation, such as eczema and psoriasis. It also acts as a barrier to protect the skin from further damage due to harsh conditions like cold weather or UV light.

Improves Antioxidant Levels

Starflower oil contains antioxidants that help your body fight off free radicals. Free radicals are byproducts of metabolism that can damage cells, tissues, and DNA. By neutralising these harmful molecules, starflower oil helps prevent cancer and other aging-related diseases.

Aids Cardiovascular Disease

Linoleic acid is an omega-6 fatty acid, and starflower oil contains high levels of this beneficial compound. Linoleic acid helps reduce inflammation in the body by reducing symptoms like asthma; it also prevents the hardening of the arteries by lowering LDL cholesterol.

Helps With Menopausal Symptoms

Starflower oil is rich in phytoestrogens, naturally occurring plant compounds similar to those found in soybeans. These compounds can help ease the symptoms of menopause by reducing hot flashes and night sweats.

Starflower Oil Dosage and Side Effects

Starflower oil is safe to take, but it's essential to remember that all oils are highly concentrated fat sources. Because they are so high in calories, they should be used sparingly to avoid weight gain.

If you're taking starflower oil as a dietary supplement, start with 1/2 teaspoon twice daily. If you're using it topically, apply just a few drops mixed with almond/jojoba/olive oil to affected areas once or twice daily.

It is seen to cause allergic reactions in some people. Like all other essential oils, starflower oil can cause skin irritation when used in high doses. You should not apply it directly to the skin without diluting it with a carrier oil. A patch test is recommended.

You can also experience mild symptoms of nausea, gas, indigestion, headache, bloating, etc. If you experience these in higher intensity, you should stop using starflower oil and immediately consult your doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to take starflower oil?

Starflower oil appears very safe to use. Little has been found in the side effects of taking it as a supplement. Like other fatty acid supplements, you may experience unwanted effects such as bloating, nausea, and indigestion.

Does starflower oil cause weight gain?

No. Instead, it promotes and helps in weight loss.

Are starflower oil and borage oil the same?

Starflower and borage oil are different names for the same liquid extracted from borage plant seeds.