Safflower Secrets: Tea, Skincare & Home Uses for This Underrated Herb

Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) might not be the first herb you think of, but it’s quietly making its way into natural beauty, wellness, and fragrance routines—and for good reason. With bright orange-red petals and a gentle, slightly earthy scent, safflower is more than just a pretty botanical.

In this blog, we’ll explore how to use safflower in teas, skin treatments, and even home fragrance—perfect for anyone who loves slow-living rituals and natural remedies.

Safflower Secrets: Tea, Skincare & Home Uses for This Underrated Herb

What Is Safflower?

Safflower is a thistle-like plant traditionally grown for its seeds and petals. You may have come across safflower oil, known for its moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties, but the dried petals (often called "saffron’s cousin") are just as versatile.

Unlike saffron, safflower is more affordable and milder in both taste and aroma. It’s ideal for herbal teas, skin-soothing recipes, and handmade products like bath blends or wax melts.

Safflower vs Saffron: What’s the Difference?

It’s easy to confuse safflower with saffron—they’re both reddish-orange, floral, and often used in herbal traditions. But they come from entirely different plants. Saffron is made from the tiny stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower and is one of the most expensive spices in the world due to the delicate hand-harvesting process.

Safflower, on the other hand, comes from the petals of the Carthamus tinctorius plant and is far more affordable and accessible. While saffron has a strong, distinctive flavour and aroma, safflower is much milder, making it ideal for gentle teas, skin applications and home fragrance where you want subtle colour and a light herbal note.

Safflower - Carthamus tinctorius 

What Does Safflower Taste Like?

Safflower has a mild, slightly earthy flavour with delicate floral notes. It’s not overpowering, which makes it a lovely base or supporting ingredient in herbal teas. On its own, it offers a clean, gentle taste that feels calming and grounding—ideal for winding down in the evening or supporting wellbeing throughout the day.

Herbal Pairings for Safflower Tea

Because of its subtle flavour, safflower pairs beautifully with other herbs and botanicals. Here are some lovely combinations to try:

• Chamomile – for a calming, golden bedtime blend

• Lemon balm – for a refreshing, mood-boosting tea

• Hibiscus – for a tart, ruby-coloured floral infusion

• Rose petals – for a soft, romantic flavour and scent

• Cinnamon or orange peel – to add gentle spice and warmth

• Lavender – for a calming, aromatic twist

Why Use Safflower?

Here are a few reasons to consider adding safflower to your natural toolkit:

• Naturally anti-inflammatory

• Rich in antioxidants

• Mild, floral scent ideal for infusions and fragrance

• Gentle on the skin

• Beautiful colour for handmade blends

Safflower Tea: A Calming, Circulation-Boosting Brew

Safflower petals make a lovely herbal tea either on their own or blended with other herbs like chamomile, lemon balm, or hibiscus. Traditionally, safflower tea has been used to support circulation, ease menstrual cramps, and calm inflammation.

To make safflower tea:

• Add 1 tsp of dried safflower petals to a cup

• Pour over freshly boiled water

• Steep for 5–7 minutes, strain and enjoy

  
  

  Optional: Add a slice of orange or a touch of honey for a gentle citrus lift

Safflower in Skincare

Thanks to its light texture and high linoleic acid content, safflower oil is brilliant for softening dry or sensitive skin. But don’t overlook the petals—they can be used in:

• Facial steams – Add dried safflower to a bowl of hot water for a gentle, floral steam

• Bath soaks – Combine petals with Epsom salt and oats for a soothing bath blend

• Infused oils – Steep safflower petals in a carrier oil like sweet almond or jojoba for 2–4 weeks and use as a facial or body oil

For the Home: A Scented Touch

Safflower’s light fragrance pairs beautifully with herbs like lavender, rosemary, and citrus peels. Try it in:

• Simmer pots – Add a handful of dried safflower with lemon peel, cinnamon and bay leaf

• Wax sachets or melts – Use as decoration and fragrance in natural soy wax blends

• Potpourri – Combine with dried herbs and essential oils in a small bowl or jar

Where to Buy Safflower

Look for dried Carthamus tinctorius petals from herbal apothecaries or loose-leaf tea suppliers. Make sure they’re food-grade if you plan to use them in teas.

Safflower FAQ

1. Is safflower safe to drink as tea?

Yes, safflower tea is considered safe for most people and has been traditionally used to support circulation and reduce inflammation. If you're pregnant or on medication, always check with a healthcare professional first.

2. Can I use safflower oil on my face?

Absolutely. Safflower oil is non-comedogenic and rich in linoleic acid, making it an excellent choice for individuals with dry or sensitive skin.

3. Does safflower smell like saffron?

Not quite. Safflower has a much lighter, more herbal scent than the bold, earthy aroma of saffron.

4. Can I grow safflower at home?

You can! Safflower is an annual that prefers sunny, well-drained spots. It’s relatively hardy, and its flowers make beautiful, functional additions to your garden.

5. What does safflower taste like in tea?

It has a mild, slightly earthy and floral taste. On its own, it’s quite subtle—ideal for blending with fruit peels or other herbs.