Safflower
Other names for Safflower
american saffron
american saffron extract
american saffron extract, powder
american saffron glycerite liquid extract
american saffron, powder
carthamus
carthamus tinctorius
carthamus tinctorius extract
carthamus tinctorius flower extract
carthamus tinctorius l.
carthamus tinctorius seed l.
certified organic safflower (carthamus tinctorius) dried petals liquid extract
certified organic safflower extract
non-gmo safflower
red flower
safflower
safflower 4:1 extract powder
safflower (carthamus tinctorius l.) oil extract
safflower concentrate
safflower extract
safflower extract, powder
safflower flower extract
safflower flower powder
safflower herb
safflower oil powder
safflower oil, powder
safflower petal
safflower petal extract, dried
safflower petal extract, dry
safflower powder
safflower, powder
safflowers
safflower seed extract
safflowers flowers
Synopsis of Safflower
History
Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) is a thistle-like annual plant that has been valued for centuries, not only as a source of vibrant dyes but also for its remarkable medicinal properties. Historical texts from ancient Egypt, China, and India document the use of safflower petals and seeds in health remedies. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), safflower (known as "Hong Hua") has long been prized for its ability to invigorate blood circulation, dispel blood stasis, and alleviate pain, especially in conditions like menstrual disorders and traumatic injuries. Similarly, ancient Persian and Greco-Roman healers employed safflower to treat respiratory ailments, promote sweating, and reduce fever.
Safflower’s medicinal versatility stems from its bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, lignans, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Its petals have been used in teas and infusions to soothe coughs and support heart health, while safflower oil is renowned for supporting healthy cholesterol levels and skin hydration. In Ayurveda, safflower is an ingredient in herbal oils for massage, believed to reduce inflammation and improve circulation.
In herbal combinations, safflower is frequently used alongside other botanicals to enhance therapeutic effects. For example, in TCM, it is often blended with peach kernel or angelica for gynecological health, or with licorice root for pain relief. Its gentle blood-moving properties make it a synergistic partner in formulas designed for cardiovascular and musculoskeletal support. Overall, safflower’s enduring presence in traditional remedies highlights its valuable role in promoting wellness and vitality across diverse cultures.
Traditional and scientific validation
Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) has a long-standing history as both a medicinal and culinary plant, with origins tracing back to ancient Egypt and China. Traditionally, safflower was used for its purported benefits in promoting cardiovascular health, supporting menstrual health, and as an anti-inflammatory agent. Rich in linoleic acid, an essential omega-6 fatty acid, safflower oil has garnered attention for its potential to support heart health by influencing cholesterol levels.
Recent scientific research has begun to validate some traditional uses of safflower. Several clinical studies have examined safflower oil’s impact on lipid profiles. For example, some trials have reported modest reductions in total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol with safflower oil supplementation, compared to other dietary fats. Additionally, small studies suggest safflower oil may help improve glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes, though findings are preliminary.
Safflower also contains bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and polyphenols, which may contribute antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. However, while laboratory and animal studies are promising, large-scale human trials are limited. Therefore, while safflower shows potential as a beneficial ingredient in nutritional products, more comprehensive research is needed to confirm its effects and optimal uses.
Overall, safflower’s nutritional profile and historical use provide a strong basis for its inclusion in modern health products. As research continues, safflower may play an increasingly recognized role in supporting cardiovascular and metabolic health.
Safflower is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Angina (Traditional)
Arthritis (Traditional)
Blood Clots (prevention of) (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Bruises (prevention) (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cardiovascular Disease (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Circulation (poor) (Traditional)
Congestion (bronchial) (Traditional)
Congestive Heart Failure (Traditional)
Constipation (adults) (Traditional)
Constipation (children) (Traditional)
Cough (general) (Traditional)
Cough (spastic) (Traditional)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Edema (Traditional)
Fatty Liver Disease (Scientific)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Hypertension (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Insomnia (Traditional)
Liver Detoxification (Traditional)
Migraine (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Phlebitis (Traditional)
Rheumatoid Arthritis (Traditional)
Triglycerides (high) (Scientific)
Varicose Veins (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
Safflower is used to support these body systems
Arteries (Traditional)
Blood (Traditional)
Circulatory System (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Heart (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Joints (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Reproductive System (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)