Safflower plant seeds - Carthamus tinctorius

Common name: Safflower - Carthamus - Ghurjum Scientific name: Carthamus tinctorius Also known as: Fake saffron Safflower is a seasonal winter plant belonging to the Asteraceae family, reaching a height of up to 150 centimeters. Its leaves are green and lance-shaped, and it has attractive flowers from which a product similar to saffron is extracted. Some people grind it to adulterate saffron because of its resemblance, and it is also similar to turmeric, but turmeric has a stronger taste and different uses. Safflower flower: Its flowers are yellow leaning to orange, small in size, forming clusters, and bloom in spring. Safflower seeds - Carthamus - Ghurjum: Its seeds are medium-sized, white, and smooth. Growing season: It is planted in the autumn season, but can also be cultivated year-round in agricultural greenhouses and enclosed or plastic places where temperature can be controlled, sunlight is available, or sufficient lighting for the plant exists. Suitable climate and soil for safflower cultivation: Safflower grows in various soils, including clayey or sandy soils with good drainage and aeration. It loves sunlight, is resistant to frost and drought. Method of planting safflower - Carthamus - Ghurjum: It propagates by seeds planted at a depth of 1-2 cm from the soil surface. It can also be fertilized with organic fertilizer at least once during flowering to accelerate growth and development. Benefits and uses: From safflower seeds, a medicinally valuable oil rich in nutrients is extracted. Safflower is a source of health benefits, helping to lower blood cholesterol levels, assist in weight loss, improve hair and skin health, and boost the immune system. It is also used for food coloring and is similar to saffron. Initial Australian studies have shown that safflower oil is a high-quality lipid oil that can be used for energy production. It produces fewer emissions than traditional petroleum-based products, can be recycled and reused, and decomposes in an environmentally friendly manner. Original homeland: Africa and India, and it is cultivated in many Middle Eastern countries.