Health benefits of safflower: The truth about its effect on the nerves and heart

Safflower is one of the oldest crops known to humankind, with historical roots stretching back thousands of years. It was used in ancient Egyptian and Chinese civilizations not only as a spice or for dyeing fabrics, but also as a key component of traditional folk medicine. While it is widely known in Arab culture as a folk remedy for ailments such as "fright" or anxiety, modern science is beginning to reshape our understanding of this plant, highlighting genuine organic benefits that go beyond popular belief.

Safflower is extracted from the dried flowers of the safflower plant, which is widely cultivated in Central Asia and the Middle East. This plant is distinguished by its rich, soluble composition and its content of natural chemical compounds, most notably linoleic acid, which plays a pivotal role in promoting overall health, from supporting cardiovascular health to regulating blood sugar levels and fighting inflammation.

Safflower oil: A powerful ally for cardiovascular health

With the rising rates of cardiovascular disease globally, safflower oil is emerging as a promising healthy dietary option. According to the Gulf Health Council and numerous medical studies, safflower oil is high in unsaturated fats, specifically linoleic acid. Research has shown that replacing saturated fats with this type of oil in the diet effectively contributes to:

• Lowering bad cholesterol (LDL): This reduces the risk of fat deposits in the arteries.
• Raising good cholesterol (HDL): which helps to clean the blood vessels.
• Improving blood pressure: Some preliminary results indicate its role in enhancing blood vessel elasticity, although this aspect still needs more extensive clinical studies.

Regulating blood sugar: A new hope for diabetics

The benefits of safflower extend beyond heart health to include metabolic health. Preliminary scientific studies suggest that the fatty acids in safflower may improve insulin sensitivity, helping to regulate blood glucose levels, particularly in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Safflower also possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may play a role in reducing diabetes-related complications. However, the medical community emphasizes that it should be considered a dietary supplement and not a replacement for prescribed medications.

The truth about safflower as a "nerve relaxant"

One of the most common beliefs in folklore is the use of safflower infusion as an immediate sedative for panic attacks or extreme fear. However, from a purely medical perspective, there is insufficient scientific evidence to confirm that safflower has calming properties for the nervous system or that it treats anxiety and depression as commonly believed. Relying on it as a sole psychological remedy may delay seeking proper medical care for genuine mental health conditions.

Warnings and contraindications

Although safflower is safe for most people to consume, it may pose a risk in certain cases that should be noted:

• Bleeding problems: Due to its potential effect on blood clotting, caution should be exercised when using it in conjunction with blood-thinning drugs (anticoagulants) or before surgical procedures, as it may increase the risk of bleeding.
• Allergies: Safflower belongs to the Asteraceae family of plants (like daisies), and may cause allergic reactions in some people, including nasal congestion, skin rash, or headache.
• Pregnancy: It is advisable to avoid consuming large therapeutic amounts of safflower flowers during pregnancy, as they may cause uterine contractions.

In conclusion, safflower is a valuable addition to a healthy diet thanks to its benefits for the heart and metabolism, but it should be used with awareness, away from popular exaggerations about its calming abilities, and with due regard to medical advice for at-risk groups.