Carthamus tinctorius L.

DeFilipps, Robert A. & Krupnick, Gary A., 2018, The medicinal plants of Myanmar, PhytoKeys 102, pp. 1-341 : 25

Carthamus tinctorius L.

Names.

Myanmar: hsu pan. English: false saffron, safflower, wild saffron.

Range.

Origin thought to be the eastern Mediterranean. Currently known only in cultivation and as escapes. Found as a cultivar in Myanmar.

Uses.

Leaf: Considered bitter and sweet, with heating properties, can cause loose bowels but are known for promoting good vision, digestion, gall bladder function, and phlegm discharge. The leaves are consumed in a sour soup (fish or shrimp stock base, tamarind, and vegetables) to promote the flow of urine and to give vigor. Flower: Juice from the crushed flowers is taken to neutralize snake and scorpion venoms. Pulverized dried flowers are used as a remedy for jaundice. A mixture of crushed flowers and sugar is given to cure hemorrhoids and kidney stones. The boiled water extract of flowers is used to treat inflammation of nasal passages, as well as joint and muscle aches. A mixture of the flowers crushed with dan-gyi ( Tanacetum cinerariifolium ) leaves is applied to the soles of the feet and the palms of the hands to cure kidney stones. Seed: Known for imparting strength and energy. Pulverized to a powder, they are taken with milk to cure madness, as well as itches and rashes. The ash from burning a combination of the seeds and the bark from hsu byu ( Thevetia peruviana ) is mixed with jasmine oil and applied to the hair to promote growth and healthy texture. Root: Can be used as a diuretic.

Notes.

Medicinal uses of this species in India are discussed in Jain and DeFilipps (1991). Medicinal use of this species in China is discussed by Duke and Ayensu (1985).

Reference.

Agricultural Corporation (1980).