In ancient China, Safflowers held an important place in Chinese medicine. They were given to patients to ease sore joints, cleanse wounds and interestingly, treat the measles. Chinese Doctors also believed that Safflower tea could induce heavy sweating, and as such prescribed it as a remedy against the common cold. This, interestingly, brings us very abruptly to the 19th century in North America. Anecdotal evidence in the new world suggests that, like the Chinese, early Americans believed Safflower could be used to treat measles and induce sweating to fight off a cold.
Is there something to it? Who knows? We do know that Safflowers make a colorful addition to custom blended teas and herbal teas. We also know they make a delicately flavored cup when brewed hot on their own. That said, if you do break out into a sweat, don't say we didn't warn you!
