Ingredient Spotlight

Safflower / Hong Hua

Why we love it

Safflower petals are a powerful botanical traditionally used to support circulation, ease discomfort, and promote balance in the menstrual cycle.

Traditionally Supports:

  • Menstrual comfort

  • Head tension comfort

  • Cycle well-being

  • Overall ease

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How It's Used

In Chinese herbal traditions, Safflower is celebrated for its role in activating blood flow and supporting natural energy balance. It is often used to maintain harmony during the menstrual cycle and encourage overall well-being.

In Western herbal practices, Safflower is appreciated for its supportive properties, including promoting circulation and encouraging balance in daily life. Its versatile uses make it a valuable addition to routines that focus on natural harmony and vitality.

Fun Fact: While Safflower petals are prized for their supportive qualities, its seed oil, high in omega-6 fatty acids, has sparked curiosity for its contrasting effects—offering yet another layer to this fascinating plant's versatility!

How we use it

“My grandmother used to make a liniment from safflower petals and cinnamon sticks which she would slather on anyone in the house who had an ache or pain. It’s great for sore muscles during athletic recovery or neck and shoulder tension from long days at work.”

- Lulu Ge, co-founder

What the research says

Safflower contains bioactive compounds that produce pharmacological effects such as antiplatelet aggregation, anticoagulation, antioxidation, and ovarian granulosa cell proliferation.
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Some of Safflower’s biological activities include: antioxidation, antihypnotic, anti-hepatic fibrosis, and analgesia. Safflower also inhibits the production of NO and PGE2 which can provide a therapeutic approach to inflammation associated disorders.
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Safflower strongly affects the intrinsic coagulation system and this may be the mechanism that promotes blood circulation.
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The apoptosis rate of human leukemia cells was significantly higher after safflower injection suggesting that safflower can inhibit proliferation.
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Feel the difference for yourself

Your cycle is unique, and the only way to know if Elix will work for you is to try your personalized blend. We’re here to listen to your body, adjust your blend as needed.

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