SAFFLOWER (Carthamus tinctorius)

DESCRIPTION: Safflower is a thistle like annual traditionally cultivated for vegetable oil from the seeds. Five flower heads are usually yellow, orange or red. The seeds are derived from the flower heads. Also often used as a dye.

POTENTIAL BENEFITS: Safflower seed oil is used in the prevention of heart disease. It is also used to treat fever, tumors, coughs,breathing problems, clotting conditions, pain, heart disease, chest pain, and traumatic injuries. Some people use it for inducing sweating; and as a laxative, stimulant, antiperspirant, and expectorant to help loosen phlegm. The linolenic and linoleic acids in safflower seed oil might help prevent “hardening of the arteries,” lower cholesterol, and reduce the risk of heart disease. Safflower contains chemicals that may thin the blood to prevent clots, widen blood vessels, lower blood pressure, and stimulate the heart.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS: Safe for most people when taken by mouth

PARTS USED: Flowers

GENERAL USAGE: Used as an astringent, laxative and diaphoretic. Helps to lower overall and LDL cholesterol.

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