(Carthamus tinctorius) Native to the Middle East, Safflower is one of the world's oldest crops, and it is now cultivated in many other places. Traditionally, Safflower was grown for its flowers, used to add color to tea and herbal blends as well as for coloring and flavoring foods and making red and yellow dyes, and in medicines. For the last fifty years or so, the plant has been cultivated mainly for the vegetable oil extracted from its seeds.
Medicinally, safflower has been used as a tonic to promote circulation, reduce inflammation, ease coughs and congestion, and to create perspiration (so it has sometimes been used for colds and related ailments). It is recommended that pregnant women avoid safflower as a medicinal tea.
Brew 1 tsp. in 1 cup of water at 212º - steep for 5 minutes.
Caffeine Free.
Please Note: The information given here has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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