Carthamus Tinctorius Flower refers to the dried flowers of the safflower plant (Carthamus tinctorius). This flower is known for its use in traditional medicine and skincare due to its beneficial properties, including its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Chemical Composition and Structure:
Flavonoids: Includes compounds like safflower yellow and safflower red, which have antioxidant properties.
Phenolic Acids: Contains caffeic acid and ferulic acid, which contribute to its antioxidant activity.
Fatty Acids: Rich in linoleic acid, which supports skin hydration and barrier function.
Vitamins: May include vitamin E, known for its skin-protective properties.
Physical Properties:
Appearance: Typically found as dried flowers or in powdered form.
Odor: Mild, characteristic of safflower.
Consistency: Dry and crumbly when in flower form; powdery if ground.
Production Process:
Harvesting: Flowers are collected from the Carthamus tinctorius plant once they are fully mature.
Drying: The flowers are dried to preserve their active compounds and extend shelf life.
Processing: The dried flowers may be ground into a powder for easier incorporation into formulations or used directly in their dried form.
Applications:
Cosmetics: Used in skincare products like masks and creams for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps in soothing the skin and reducing redness.
Traditional Medicine: Applied in various traditional remedies for its purported benefits in improving skin health and supporting overall well-being.
Hair Care: Incorporated into shampoos and conditioners to nourish and strengthen hair, providing shine and vitality.
Environmental and Safety Considerations:
Generally regarded as safe for topical application; however, like all plant materials, it should be used in accordance with established guidelines to avoid potential allergic reactions or skin irritations. People with allergies or very sensitive skin should be cautious. It is important to ensure that the flowers are sustainably sourced and free from harmful chemicals.
INCI Functions:
Fragrance. It plays a very important role in the formulation of cosmetic products as it provides the possibility of enhancing, masking or adding fragrance to the final product, increasing its marketability. It is able to create a perceptible pleasant odour, masking a bad smell. The consumer always expects to find a pleasant or distinctive scent in a cosmetic product.
Synonyms:
CAS: 223749-52-8 EC number 607-037-7