The safflower plant has been used for centuries to obtain an attractive red dye (“Spanish red”). When pink skin color was fashionable, ladies used it to make their faces more beautiful. It has also been used to add color and fun to poor people’s food as a substitute for saffron.
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Safflower Plant Scientific Facts
- Scientific name: Carthamus tinctorius L.
- Other names: False saffron.
- French: Carthame.
- Spanish: Cartamo.
- Environment: It is native to the Mediterranean basin, though it was formerly cultivated all over Europe and America. It grows wild in the areas where it has been introduced.
- Description: This is an annual plant of the Compositae family, growing up to one meter high. It has thorny leaves and red or yellow flowers.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The flowers and the fruits.
Healing Properties and Indications
The flowers contain several coloring substances of glycosidic type, the most important of which is carthamin. They are sudorific and diuretic and are used for fever, influenza, or cold.
The fruit is rich in oil and is formed by a lesser proportion of linoleic, oleic, palmitic, and stearic acids. Both the fruit and its oil have a strong purgative effect. Moreover, being rich in unsaturated fatty acids, they decrease the level of cholesterol in the blood.
Because of its strong flavor, safflower oil is seldom used. Other plant oils rich in unsaturated fatty acids include soya oil, corn oil, wheat germ oil, and grape seed oil.
How to use Safflower
- Infusion with 60 g of flowers per liter of water. Drink one or two cups daily.
- Oil. A spoonful on an empty stomach has purgative effects.
Frequently Asked Question
Besides heart health, what other benefits are linked to safflower plant oil?
Blood Sugar Management: Some studies suggest that safflower oil may improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. This may be due to its high content of healthy unsaturated fats.
Inflammation Reduction: The compounds in safflower may have anti-inflammatory effects, potentially benefiting conditions like arthritis.
Skin Health: Applying safflower oil topically might help improve dry skin and reduce inflammation.
Is the safflower plant safe for everyone?
While generally safe, there are precautions:
Allergies: People allergic to ragweed, daisies, or similar plants may experience allergic reactions to safflower.
Blood Clotting: Safflower could potentially slow blood clotting, so consult a physician if you take blood thinners or have clotting disorders.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Insufficient information exists on safflower’s safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is advisable to consult a doctor.
What’s the difference between high-linoleic and high-oleic safflower plant oil?
High-Linoleic: It contains primarily polyunsaturated linoleic acid, making it a better option for managing cholesterol but less stable at high temperatures.
High-Oleic: It contains monounsaturated, primarily oleic acid, which makes it more heat stable and ideal for cooking but offers fewer heart health benefits.
Are safflower plant seeds beneficial to eat?
Yes, safflower seeds are a nutritious source of:
Fiber: Promoting healthy digestion
Healthy fats: Supporting heart health
Minerals and vitamins: There are a variety of minerals, including magnesium and vitamin E.
How do I incorporate safflower plant oil into my diet?
High-linoleic: Best used in salad dressings, dips, or drizzled overcooked foods.
High-oleic: Suitable for sautéing, stir-frying, and baking.
Topically: The potential moisturizing advantages of this product can be achieved by applying it straight to the skin.
Is safflower plant oil a weight-loss aid?
There’s limited evidence for safflower oil directly causing weight loss. However, replacing unhealthy fats with safflower oil as part of a balanced diet might support overall weight management goals.
Can safflower oil help with menopause symptoms?
Some research suggests the potential benefits of safflower oil for reducing hot flashes and improving sleep quality during menopause. However, further studies are needed.
Are there any side effects associated with safflower?
Safflower is generally well-tolerated, but possible side effects include:
Digestive discomfort (gas, bloating, diarrhea)
Potential blood sugar fluctuations in people with diabetes
How much safflower oil is recommended for health benefits?
No official dosage guidelines exist. Moderation is essential, and it’s best to consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Where can I find reliable information about safflower’s health effects?
Reliable Sources:
National Institutes of Health (NIH): https://ods.od.nih.gov/
Reputable medical websites: Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic
Peer-reviewed research studies in scientific journals.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 751. Print. [Safflower plant]
- https://www.health.com/safflower-benefits-7970710
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322245
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5099570/
Last update on 2024-03-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API