Sunflower seeds are probably the most familiar of all edible seeds. They reside in the tightly packed core of the glorious sunflower. The seeds are commonly crushed for their oil. There are many varieties of sunflower seeds.

Sunflower kernels are well above average in protein, phosphorus and iron concentration. They are highly valued as a very rich source of B-Complex Vitamins.

Natural Benefits and Curative Properties:

1. Sunflower seed kernels are an excellent protein food and can be considered as complete meal. Eaten with milk, the seeds supplement for the needs of protein, the substance of which every cell of the body is made.

2. The kernels consist of almost 50% fat. A rich source of minerals including potassium, the seeds help balance the sodium in our diets, thereby protecting the body from the dangers of too much salt in tissues. Magnesium being plentiful in sunflower, helps the heart and other muscles as well as nervous tissues in the maintenance of proper balance between magnesium and calcium.

3. The seeds contain substantial quantity of linoleic acid, a fat helpful in reducing cholesterol deposits in the arteries.

4. The thiamin and niacine components of sunflower seeds help protect the health of nerves and brain as well as skin and digestive tract. Deficiency of these vitamins results in diseases like beri-beri and pallagra.

5. The flour made from sunflower seeds is one of the richest sources of iron amo\ng all foods. It is highly beneficial in prevention and treatment of anemia.

6. Powder of the dry seeds or the decoction of the pounded seeds is used as a remedy for bronchitis, laryngitis, tonsillitis, influenza, and cough.