Safflower extract 20:1 | Carthamus tinctorius

Properties: Safflower is definitely a truly fascinating plant – especially considering the fact that its special properties have been valued in ancient times. In the countries of the Middle East, including Babylonia, Palestine and Syria, the yellow or orange flowers of this herb have been used to colorize fabric. In Egypt, it has become an important ingredient of cosmetics but also served as a dyeing substance for shrouds and bands used in religious ceremonies. Perhaps for this reason safflower is often compared to saffron. After all, it has been treated as a more affordable yet equally effective substitute for this precious, colorizing spice. In Europe, the plants of Carthamus tinctorius species actually became very popular. Even though they had been cultivated since around the 18th century, even in ancient Greece and Rome safflower was used as a universal herbal medicine.

Traditionally, extract from Carthamus tinctorius served as a remedy that supports circulation of blood, improves condition of the brain and even strengthens hair. Research indicates that active compounds contained in safflower facilitate dilation of blood vessels, which helps to regulate blood pressure. Besides that, they might be a valuable support in prevention of atherosclerosis since they lead to a decrease in total cholesterol level. It is worth emphasizing that these substances additionally increase the level of HDL considered a “good” type of cholesterol. Thanks to these properties, C. tinctorius has a great effect on the heart and overall condition of blood vessels. Moreover, safflower extract protects the liver and supports bodily cells due to a strong antioxidant effect. And since its active compounds stimulate production of white blood cells that identify and eliminate pathogens, they induce positive influence on the immune system. Some people might find it interesting that this plant intensifies metabolic processes, facilitating burning of fat tissue. In addition to that, C. tinctorius reduces release of enzymes that stimulate hunger, so it might be useful for those who seek a natural support for weight reduction.

Let’s remember that the antioxidant potential of this herb is important in terms of a good condition of the nervous system. By inhibiting reactive oxygen species, safflower protects the neurons from damage and premature death. As research suggests, active compounds contained in this Asian plant counteract many other harmful factors, including inflammation and excessive beta-amyloid deposits. At the same time, they stimulate neuroplasticity which leads to development of new neural cells and is particularly important for learning abilities. Safflower extract helps to improve the activity of key neurotransmitters that are in charge of mental comfort and well-being. It has been found to mitigate reuptake of serotonin, the so-called happiness hormone, while increasing expression of receptors for dopamine – a brain chemical that induces feelings of pleasure and regulates motivation level. Therefore, Carthamus tinctorius brings benefits for the brain in many aspects, including a better condition of neurons, sharper cognitive functions and even a slightly better mood.

Occurrence: Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) is an annual plant from the sunflower family (Asteraceae). It comes from southern parts of Asia and is actually one of the oldest herbs harvested by humankind. There are archeological traces indicating that it could have been known to civilization about 4 500 years ago, particularly in Mesopotamia. This herb looks somewhat similar to thistle. It has a 1,5 m long furrowed stem of a mild yellow color and a shiny surface. The leaves of safflower are 15 cm in length and 5 cm in width with a lanceolate, spiky-toothed shape.  There are many shoots that branch from the main shoot of this plant. On their tops, grow large, bulbous inflorescences. The flowers are tubular, hermaphroditic and reddish orange in color.

Biochemistry: There are at least 200 chemical compounds that have been identified in safflower extract. This herb contains substances from the groups of: flavonoids, glycosides, coumarins, fatty acids, sterols and polysaccharides. The most important ones include: antioxidant derivatives of serotonin, carthamin, cartamidine, isocartamidine, quercetin, kaempferol, chalcones, luteolin, myristic acid, lauric acid, linolenic acid, oleic acid, arachidonic acid and palmitic acid.

Fun fact: In ancient times, safflower has been used as a source of a natural dye. Its botanical name Carthamus refers to that fact. This word is probably based on Arabic karkhum, qurtum, korthom, which means “dyeing” or “colorizing”. One of the active compounds contained in safflower – carthamin – gives it a distinctive red color.