Safflower Threads (Stamens) Profile

Also known as

Carthamus tinctorius, False Saffron, and Azafran

Introduction

Safflower is more familiar to westerners as the source of vegetable oil, but the petals of the native American plant make a pleasant tasting tea.

Constituents

Carthamin, carthamadin

Parts Used

The stamens (also called petals, threads or flowers)

Typical Preparations

Can be made for use as a dye, and whole petals used as tea

Summary

Besides its medicinal uses, safflower leaves have also been used as pigment and dye from deep yellow to crimson for centuries, and are sometimes used as natural food coloring.

Precautions

Pregnant women should avoid using safflower(the oil is alright) as it may have a slight aborfacient quality. It also may cause problems in people who have ragweed allergies.

For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.