Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Asteraceae
• Common Names: Safflower, False Saffron, Dyer’s Saffron
• Parts Used: Flowers, seeds, seed oil

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Description

Carthamus tinctorius is an annual herbaceous plant native to arid regions of Asia and the Middle East. It is traditionally cultivated for its flowers, which are used as a dye and herbal remedy, as well as for its seeds, which yield safflower oil. The plant is valued for its circulatory, anti-inflammatory, and menstrual-supporting properties.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to invigorate blood circulation and relieve pain.
• Traditionally applied to regulate menstruation and ease menstrual cramps.
• Employed as a mild expectorant for colds and respiratory conditions.

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Constituents

• Flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol)
• Lignans
• Polyphenols
• Fatty acids (linoleic acid)
• Carotenoids

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Actions

• Circulatory stimulant
• Emmenagogue (stimulates menstruation)
• Anti-inflammatory
• Expectorant
• Antioxidant
• Hypotensive (lowers blood pressure)

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Medicinal Uses

1. Circulatory and Heart Health:
Safflower improves blood circulation, helps lower cholesterol, and supports cardiovascular function.

2. Menstrual Health and Hormonal Balance:
Traditionally used to regulate menstrual cycles, ease cramps, and support reproductive health.

3. Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief:
The flowers and oil have been used to reduce inflammation, arthritis pain, and muscle stiffness.

4. Respiratory Support:
Safflower tea is used in herbal medicine to clear mucus and relieve respiratory congestion.

5. Skin and Wound Healing:
Safflower oil is applied topically to nourish the skin, treat eczema, and improve wound healing.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried flowers per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to 2 times daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml of tincture taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice or Compress:

• Strong infusion applied externally for skin inflammation and wound healing.

Oil (Topical Use):

• Safflower oil applied directly to the skin for hydration and inflammation relief.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid use during pregnancy due to its emmenagogue effects.
• Blood Thinning Effects: May increase bleeding risk; avoid if taking anticoagulants.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience sensitivity to safflower.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Warming and invigorating; used to move stagnant blood and relieve pain.
• Ayurveda: Considered slightly heating and balancing for Vata and Kapha, but may increase Pitta in excess.

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Combinations

• For Circulatory Support: Combine with hawthorn and ginkgo.
• For Menstrual Health: Combine with ginger and dong quai.
• For Skin Healing: Combine with calendula and chamomile.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Flowers are collected when fully bloomed, while seeds are harvested when mature.
• Drying: Air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
• Storage: Store dried flowers and seeds in an airtight container away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Carthamus tinctorius’s role in improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and supporting skin health, reinforcing its traditional medicinal uses.

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Safflower remains an important herb in traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for circulatory health, menstrual regulation, and skin support.