Safflower

Safflower, also known as American saffron, dyer's saffron, and false saffron, is an annual plant native to the Mediterranean countries and cultivated in Europe and the U.S. Its glabrous, branching stem grows from 1 to 3 feet high and bears alternate, sessile, oblong, or ovate-lanceolate leaves armed with small, spiny teeth. The orange-yellow flowers grow in flower heads about 1 to 10 inches across.

This herb is used traditionally in China to treat coronary disease, thrombotic disorders, and menstrual problems. Alcoholic extracts of the plant are used topically for direct application to ulcers and wounds. Safflower has been used effectively as a diaphoretic and a diuretic. Taken hot, safflower tea produces strong perspiration and has thus been used for colds and related ailments. It has also been used at times for its soothing effect in cases of hysteria, such as that associated with chlorosis.

Home Page || Back || Product Index