Botanical Overview
Carthamus tinctorius, commonly known as Safflower, is a member of the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to the Mediterranean, Western Asia, India, and China, and has been introduced to North America. The primary parts used medicinally are the seeds, flowers, and their extracted oil. It has a long history of use in both culinary and medicinal contexts across multiple traditions.
Energetics
Carthamus tinctorius is considered warming and drying in nature, with bitter, pungent, and salty tastes. It exhibits ascending and outward directionality and is tonifying primarily to the blood qi and fluid systems.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Cardiotonic
- Emmenagogue
- Laxative
- Hypolipidemic
- Vasodilator
Indications
Western
- Menstrual disorders
- High cholesterol
- Hypertension
- Bruising
- Muscle pain
- Constipation
Syndromes
- Hyperlipidemia
- Peripheral vascular disease
- Amenorrhea
- Dysmenorrhea
TCM
- Amenorrhea
- Blood stasis
- Chest pain
- Abdominal pain
Syndromes
- Blood stasis syndrome
- Qi stagnation
Ayurveda
- Kapha imbalance
- Muscle stiffness
- Vata disorders
Syndromes
- Rakta dhatu disorders
- Vata vyadhi
Unani
- Menstrual irregularities
- Blood disorders
Syndromes
- Sanguine blood disorders
Constituents & Mechanisms
The plant contains carthamin, flavonoids, lignans, polyunsaturated fatty acids, saponins, and triterpenes which contribute to its pharmacological effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion of dried flowers: 2-5 g, 2-3 times daily
- Seed oil: 1-2 teaspoons daily
- Powdered seed: 1-3 g daily
Safety & Contraindications
Use with caution in individuals at risk of bleeding, and avoid during pregnancy, especially the first trimester. It may interact additively with anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications. Potential allergen for some individuals.
Astrological Correspondences
No credible sources were found to assign planetary or elemental rulers with confidence.
Selected References
- Medicinal Plants of the World: Chemical Constituents, Traditional and Modern Medicinal Uses
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Volume 2
- Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica (3rd Edition)
- PFAF (Plants For A Future) Database