Carthamus tinctorius L.

Abstract

Carthamus tinctorius L., also known as safflower, is a highly exploited medicinal plant from Asteraceae family. It has been used in agriculture for its oil, food, and fodder and in textile industries as natural dyes. It has also been used in different traditional medicinal systems for the treatment of various diseases in countries around the world. Scientific researches explored its anticoagulant, antihypertensive, cardioprotective, antioxidant, neuroprotective, anti-melanogenic, immune-stimulatory, antitumor, anti-arthritic, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, and antidiabetic activities. The presence of various phytoconstituents such as flavonoids, phenyltethanoids glycosides, coumarins, fatty acids, steroids, alkaloids, alkane diols, riboflavin, and safflower polysaccharides are believed to be responsible for its diverse medicinal significances. Hence, this plant not only serves as a source of lead molecule for drug development but it can also be used to develop nutraceuticals and functional foods as well. Furthermore, as a good source of natural yellow and red pigments, it can provide suitable natural alternative to the synthetic coloring agents. Show more