Sunflower, whose scientific name is Helianthus annuus, is an agricultural plant belonging to the daisy family. It has a widespread cultivation area due to its seeds and oil. Sunflower, which is known as one of the most important oil plants in the world and in Turkey, is grown with a rate of 70%, especially in Thrace and Marmara regions of our country.
This species, which has a rich nutrient such as sunflower seeds, has very important benefits in terms of human health. Sunflowers, 1-2 meters in length, turn yellow in summer. The plant, which can grow more easily in warm and hot climates, can adapt everywhere except cold and high altitude regions. Thanks to its root structure, it is also very resistant to drought.
How is Sunflower Grown?
Sunflower plant should be propagated with seeds, that is, with its flowers. It will be beneficial to plant in an area that receives high levels of sunlight. It is recommended that the soil temperature be 10-12 degrees. It should be sown between the beginning of April and the middle of May. The soil must be moist, so it requires heavy rainfall, especially during the flowering period.
Since sunflowers take a lot of nutrients from the soil, planting them on top of each other should be avoided. These plants, which need water most during the flowering period, need watering every 20 days after they reach 40 cm tall.
What are the Benefits of Sunflower?
Sunflower, which contains many substances that are beneficial for human health, can have 90 percent unsaturated fat. Sunflower seeds are a strong source of vitamin E and accelerate weight loss when consumed in a certain amount.
• Contains intense magnesium.
• Helps to improve cardiovascular health.
• It supports the amount of healthy cholesterol.
• It is good for depression.
• Contains Selenium.
• It reduces redness and swelling in the body.
• Regulates thyroid hormone.
• It has a calming effect.
