Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) Herb Benefits and Medicinal Uses
Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) Benefits
Description
Safflower is an important oil producing plant. It is a multi-branched perennial plant and grows 0.5 to 1.5 meters high. Its leaves are dark green, smooth and arranged in a spiral shape. Its main root is quite strong. The inflorescences are cylindrical and usually orange-yellow in color. Safflower seeds have a bitter taste and look similar to orange seeds.
Origin and spread
Safflower is believed to have originated in the Eastern Mediterranean and Persian Gulf regions. Four thousand years ago it was born in Egypt. It was originally grown in Egypt, the Middle East and India for the orange color collected from its flowers. This dye is still used in the Indian subcontinent. Currently, it is cultivated in many countries.
Food quality
Its seed oil content ranges from 20 to 38 percent. The thinner the skin, the higher the oil content. This drying oil contains high levels of linoleic acid, about 75%, and low levels of linolenic acid. Its protein content is 20 to 55 percent.
Natural benefits and healing rituals of Safflower
Safflower is one of the polyunsaturated oils. Its medicinal value is due to its linoleic acid and it lowers blood cholesterol levels. This in turn improves the availability of calcium in body cells.
Heart disease
As mentioned earlier, safflower oil lowers blood cholesterol. So this oil is safe for people suffering from cardiovascular diseases.
Constipation
A teaspoon of Safflower seeds, six almonds mixed with honey is beneficial in constipation. It is a safe laxative for children, elderly and pregnant women.
Sexual weakness
Safflower seeds work well in the treatment of sexual impotence. For better results, dry seed powder should be taken with almonds and honey. Eat with milk before going to bed. It is a very effective aphrodisiac. It increases sexual potency and thickens semen.
Asthma
Safflower seeds are very effective in curing bronchial asthma. Half a teaspoon of dry powder of Safflower seeds, mixed with one tablespoon of honey should be taken once or twice a day. It acts as a cough suppressant and reduces spasms by thinning thick sputum. A decoction of flowers with honey is also beneficial in asthma.
Gynecology
A decoction made by boiling two teaspoons of Safflower seed powder in 120 ml of water is beneficial for painful menstruation. Dry Safflower flowers and rose flowers mixed and eaten are also beneficial in this condition. Boiling Safflower leaves in water and eating them stops miscarriage.
Eczema
Safflower oil is used in the treatment of eczema.
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