ABSTRACT
Carthamus tinctorius, known as safflower in English, is an annual herbaceous plant characterized as bushy or thistle-like with several branches ending with yellowish-reddish flowers. Since ancient times, C. tinctorius seed decoction or its oil has been used for treating different health issues. The chemical composition of C. tinctorius is high in various bioactive phytochemicals such as flavonoids, alkaloids, steroids, and organic acids. C. tinctorius seed extracts or its oil has been demonstrated to exert several health-promoting activities against various diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, cancer, and diabetes. The effect of C. tinctorius against diabetes has been investigated in several studies; it could promote beneficial effects in improving glucose and insulin homeostasis, as well as preventing or enhancing diabetes complications such as enhancing liver and kidney functions and improving dyslipidemia. In addition, C. tinctorius could play a role in major pathophysiological mechanisms involved in preventing and managing diabetes. C. tinctorius could exert inhibitory effects on key digestive enzymes, activate major signaling pathways, and promote antioxidants and anti-inflammatory activities. This chapter highlights the beneficial role of C. tinctorius against diabetes and the possible mechanisms beyond its action.
