What is a sunflower? What are the benefits of sunflowers?

Sunflower , scientifically known as Helianthus annuus, is an agricultural plant belonging to the daisy family. It is widely cultivated due to its seeds and oil. Known as one of the most important oilseed crops in the world and in Turkey, sunflowers are grown in Turkey, particularly in the Thrace and Marmara regions, accounting for 70% of the total.

This species, rich in nutrients like sunflower seeds, offers significant health benefits. Sunflowers, which grow to a height of 1-2 meters, turn yellow in the summer months. They thrive more easily in warm and hot climates and can adapt to almost anywhere except cold and high-altitude regions. Thanks to their root structure, they are also quite resistant to drought.

How to Grow Sunflowers?

Sunflower plants should be propagated from seeds, i.e., their flowers. Planting in an area with high sunlight is beneficial. A soil temperature of 10-12 degrees Celsius is recommended. Planting should be done between early April and mid-May. The soil needs to be moist, therefore it requires heavy rainfall, especially during the flowering period.

Sunflowers absorb a large amount of nutrients from the soil, so planting them in close succession should be avoided. These plants, which need the most water during their flowering period, require watering every 20 days after reaching a height of 40 cm.

What are the benefits of sunflower?

Sunflower seeds contain many substances beneficial to human health and can have up to 90% unsaturated fat. Sunflower seeds are a strong source of vitamin E and, when consumed in moderation, can accelerate weight loss.

• It contains a high amount of magnesium.
• It helps improve cardiovascular health.
• It supports healthy cholesterol levels.
• It helps with depression.
• It contains selenium.
• It reduces redness and swelling in the body.
• It regulates thyroid hormone.
• It has a calming effect.