Carthamus tinctorius – whole dried flowers

Safflower is a hardy herb native to Asia and the Middle East. Its vibrant flowers, harvested when ripe, offer a range of traditional uses, from dyes to home remedies to subtle culinary applications.

Description

Whole dried flower heads, yellow to orange-red in color, light and crumbly. Sweet, floral, slightly herbaceous aroma.

Nomenclature

• Common names: Safflower, bastard saffron, false saffron
• Latin name: Carthamus tinctorius
• Family: Asteraceae
• Part used: Flower head (flower)
• Form: Whole bulk
• Origin: Central Asia, India, Mediterranean basin
• English name: Safflower
• Name in German: Färberdistel
• Name in Spanish: Alazor
• Name in Italian: Cartamo
• Name in Arabic: العصفر (al-ʿuṣfur)

Main virtues

Safflower is used for its dyeing properties (a natural red-yellow colorant), as a spice in oriental dishes, or for its soothing qualities in floral infusions. It is also incorporated into natural cosmetic formulations for its mild color and flavonoids.

Main constituents

Flavonoids (carthamin), natural pigments, organic acids, volatile aromatic compounds.

Use and dosage

• Infusion: 1 to 2 teaspoons for 250 ml, infuse for 10 to 15 minutes in hot water.
• Cuisine: used as a coloring spice in rice, soups, fish, salads.
• Dye: decoction for artisanal textile dyeing or naturally colored soap.

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• Moderate use recommended for infusion or cooking.
• Not recommended for pregnant women at high doses without professional advice.
• Store away from light and humidity.

History and origin

Safflower was used in ancient Egypt to dye royal fabrics. It was later cultivated throughout the Mediterranean basin, where it served as a saffron substitute, a traditional remedy, and a colorful ornamental plant.

Miscellaneous information

• Storage: opaque jar or tightly closed kraft bag.
• Packaging: bulk or resealable bag.
• Appearance: colorful, dry, light flower heads.
• Scent: sweet, floral, reminiscent of dried meadow flowers.

Sources and references

• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• Works on culinary and dyeing botany
• Corpus of Oriental Ethnobotany
• Textile and medicinal traditions of the Middle East

🔎 Information

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