Safflower oil comes from the seeds of the safflower plant. While it’s more expensive than other oils used for cooking, safflower oil may be a healthier alternative. But what exactly are the health benefits, and how does it differ from other oils?

About Safflower Oil

‌Safflower plants are used for many purposes. They were originally grown for their yellow and red flowers and used to make dyes. Today the plant is primarily grown for its oil, although it also supplies meal and birdseed.

Safflower oil has almost 75% linoleic acid, which may help to lower blood cholesterol levels and improve heart and circulatory conditions. The linoleic acid content in safflowers is much higher than other oils such as:

• Corn
• Soybean
• Cottonseed
• Peanut‌
• Olive

Safflower oil high in linoleic acid is primarily found in margarines and salad dressings. Other varieties of safflower plants produce oil that is high in oleic acid. This type of safflower oil is a heat-stable option better suited for cooking.

How to Use Safflower Oil

Cooking. Use safflower oil in recipes as a substitute for vegetable oil or other frying oils. In recipes that call for butter, you can look for margarine products derived from safflower oil. You can also read the ingredients on salad dressing bottles to look for products that contain safflower oil.

Skincare. Plant oils are increasingly popular for skincare. You can purchase safflower oil and apply it to your skin directly, or look for over-the-counter skincare products that list safflower oil as an ingredient.