Safflower is a plant. The flower and oil from the seeds are used as medicine.In foods, safflower seed oil is used as a cooking oil.In manufacturing, safflower flower is used to color cosmetics and dye fabrics. Safflower seed oil is used as a paint solvent. 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.
Safflower has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years. It is used to treat menstrual disorders. Dried Safflower flower is an emmenagogue, meaning that it is given to bring on menstruation.According to traditional Chinese usage, dried safflower flower is a blood regulator; Safflower is said to have a warm nature and a pungent taste. Chinese practitioners use safflower oil in massage.
