Characteristics and uses of safflower , a colouring and medicinal plant with many uses in the past. Where to find it and composition 1. Introduction Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) is an ancient crop known for its versatile applications, particularly as an oilseed crop. Cultivated for both oil production and its petals for coloring and flavoring, safflower has emerged as a significant crop, especially in arid and semi-arid regions where other crops may struggle. 2. Origin and History of […] Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius), also false saffron, is a highly branched, herbaceous, thistle -like annual plant in the family Asteraceae. It is one of the world's oldest crops; today, it is commercially cultivated for vegetable oil extracted from the seeds. Safflower oil is a good source of heart-healthy unsaturated fat that can help lower cholesterol and control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.