The safflower plant was cultivated almost exclusively for its flowers. The flowers were used in the treatment of many illnesses and were also consumed as herbal tea. The main reason for consuming the safflower as tea was the flowers' presence of amino acids, minerals, and certain vitamins (B1, B2, B12, C, and E). The safflower plant has been successfully used medicinally for women's menstrual periods, cardiovascular diseases, and swelling and pain caused by trauma. The validity of these uses has been supported by clinical and laboratory studies. Clinical studies have shown that it reduces high blood pressure and increases blood flow in the blood vessels, allowing tissues to receive more oxygen.
In Afghanistan and India, tea made from safflower leaves has been used to prevent miscarriages in women. Recent research has also revealed the presence of antioxidants in safflower flowers. Yellow flowers, in particular, contain more antioxidants than flowers of other colors, and it has been shown that using yellow flowers in tea is more beneficial.
In our country, the safflower (is actually a safflower, but is still known as a hasp) flower is used to add color to some dishes. For example, in our Southeastern Anatolia region (Diyarbakir and its surrounding areas), yellow safflower flowers are used in pilaf, giving the pilaf its yellow color.
In Western Europe, Japan, and Latin America, thornless varieties are used in cut flower production.
The oilcake remaining after the oil is removed is a good source of feed for livestock farming, with a crude protein content of up to 25 (average 22-24 ).