Hong Hua
StarCarthamus tinctorius
Synonyms: Calcitrapa tinctoria, Centaurea carthamus, Carthamus glaber, Carthamus tinctorius var. spinosus
☯ TCM Properties
Invigorates the Blood, dispels Blood Stasis, opens the channels, unblocks menstruation and alleviates pain
Traditional Chinese Uses
Bai Ji (bletilla rhizome) is an astringent, sweet, slightly cold herb used in Chinese medicine primarily to stop bleeding from the Lungs and Stomach, astringes wounds, and generate new flesh. It is a key herb for coughing up blood from Lung conditions, hemorrhage from gastric ulcers and trauma, and external wounds. It also helps reduce swellings and facilitates the resolution of sores. Modern clinical applications include its use for gastrointestinal bleeding and wound management.
Western Herbalism Properties
Used In Formulas (2)
Gallery
Botanical Description
Carthamus tinctorius is an annual thistle-like herb in the daisy family (Asteraceae), growing 30-150 cm tall. Stems are stout, erect, and branched above. Leaves are alternate, sessile, oblong to lance-shaped, 3-10 cm long, with spiny teeth. Flower heads are 2-4 cm across, initially bearing bright yellow flowers that deepen to orange-red as they mature; these are the medicinal part (Hong Hua). Bracts are spiny. Seeds (white achenes) are a source of safflower oil. The red pigment (carthamin) gives the flowers their characteristic color.
Cultivated in dry, warm climates throughout the world; native to southern Asia or the Middle East, widely grown for its seed oil, dye, and medicinal flowers.
Carthamus tinctorius is a cultivated annual crop with long history of use for its seeds, oil, and dye. No wild populations are definitively known. Widely grown throughout China, India, and the Middle East. No conservation concerns.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 3-9 g | daily | — | adult | Contraindicated in pregnancy; small doses (1.5-3 g) nourish/harmonize Blood, larger doses invigorate and break Blood stasis. |
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
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