Sunflower comes from the annual plant Helianthus annuus. The seeds supply vitamin E, healthy fats, and selenium. People eat the seeds whole, press them for oil, or include them in meals. Petal extracts are sold as liquids or capsules, though product dosing varies widely.
Seed oil is high in calories. Large servings can have a mild laxative effect. Allergic reactions are possible but rare. Petal extracts lack mainstream documentation for specific uses. Talk to a doctor before trying any new supplement.