Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) is an annual herbaceous plant from the Asteraceae family. The first preserved trace was discovered on fabric samples from Egyptian tombs, so it is obvious that it began to be cultivated several thousand years ago. The color of the flowers comes from substances called benzoquinones, and the main chemical compound is called cartamine. Unlike many other natural dyes based on anthocyanin compounds, such as the colors of mallow flowers, grape fruits and beetroot roots, cartamine is an extremely stable compound that does not fade. Every time a plant is found in the tomb of King Tutankhamun of Egypt, it takes on an aura of greater importance. Safflower was used by the ancient Egyptians to dye clothes, but we don’t know if they could have dreamed that such a “banal” plant would be grown so much outside their country. From cosmetics and nutrition, and even slimming agents, safflower has become a real star in many industries.
HABITAT:Safflower is a Mediterranean plant native to Egypt. It is a xerophilous crop (plant of dry habitats) that is mainly cultivated in arid and semi-arid areas of Asia, Australia, America and Europe (Mediterranean). In the 16th century, it was transferred to England, and from there it spread to other areas. Depending on the ecological conditions and the variety, the vegetation of safflower lasts 110 – 140 days. The largest producers of safflower are Kazakhstan, Russia and Mexico. In the European Union, safflower is grown in Spain and Hungary.
HEALING: Safflower has a positive effect on health, and its oil is especially healing. Linolenic and linoleic fatty acids present in safflower oil can help reduce the concentration of bad cholesterol in the blood, reduce blood pressure, prevent “hardening” of blood vessel walls, diabetes, chronic heart disease, colds, respiratory diseases, stimulate hair growth, digestive problems. It has strong anti-inflammatory properties, promotes liver health, prevents diabetes. Studies show that this plant can help women with painful menstruation.Safflower is used as a spice, that is, as a substitute for expensive saffron flower. The oleic type of safflower oil, thanks to its thermostability, is used for cooking and frying. In addition, the oil can also be used to season salads and other dishes. It tastes similar to sunflower oil.
We can also use this oil to help with weight loss. Also, it is a natural lubricant, which means that it prevents unnecessary drying of the skin and keeps the skin soft and moisturized. This oil maintains skin moisture, improves elasticity, prevents the formation of wrinkles. It is used to prevent acne, psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, and even help with gout and painful joints. Safflower oil possesses medicinal ingredients that keep hair shiny and healthy. This is especially true for omega fatty acids, which are conducive to dry scalp and split hair.
Safflower tea: Safflower tea is most often made from flowers. It has a strong taste, but is useful in improving circulation, relaxing sore muscles, preventing heart disease, depression, inflammatory diseases such as arthritis or gout. Buy safflower tea in a health food store. Boil 200 ml of water. Turn off the heat and add 1-2 small spoons of safflower tea.wait 5-7 minutes. Now strain the tea and after 10 minutes add a little lemon juice and 1 small spoonful of honey… Drink 1 glass a day for 15 days in a row…