Diabetes is a chronic condition defined by high levels of sugar in the blood. It occurs due to reduced production the pancreatic hormone insulin, due to lower sensitivity of muscle, fat and liver cells to the hormone, or both. The condition affects more than 20 million Americans with over 40 million people in the pre-diabetes stages, says MedlinePlus. Obesity, heart disease, family history and age increase the risk of diabetes which can lead to complications such as blurred vision, frequent urination, fatigue and increased thirst. Treatment may include medications and insulin injections. Certain herbs such as safflower may also help manage the condition.
About Safflower
Safflower, or Carthamus tinctorius, is a small plant with shiny, oval leaves and yellow to deep red flowers. Oils extracted from the seeds of the plant and teas have been used traditionally to treat a variety of conditions including heart disease, kidney disease and osteoporosis. The supplements are available as capsules and oils and the dose depends on the age of the patient and condition being treated. The polyunsaturated fatty acids and lignin glycosides of safflower are responsible for its biological activity.
Link Between Safflower and Diabetes
Safflower supplements possess significant antioxidant activity and may prevent the free radical mediated damage of the kidneys, thereby reducing the risk of kidney disease or nephropathy associated with diabetes, according to a study published in a 2009 issue of the journal "Chinese Pharmacy." Another study published in a 2009 edition of the "Asian Journal of Experimental Sciences" also states that methanolic extracts of safflower can significantly lower the blood sugar levels in laboratory animals. About 8 g of safflower oil per day for 16 weeks may improve blood sugar and fat levels, and inflammation in women with type 2 diabetes, report the researchers of a study published in the February 2011 online edition of the journal "Clinical Nutrition."
Side Effects
Safflower supplements are generally safe to use, although allergic reactions are reported occasionally. Also, clinical trials with regards to the safety and efficacy of safflower are limited, so the drug interactions and toxicology of the herb have not been well documented.
Precautions
Always talk to a doctor before using safflower to treat diabetes or its complications. Inform your doctor about your pre-existing conditions and any other medications you might be taking. Since, the safety of safflower has not been studied in pregnant women, consult a doctor before using it if you are pregnant or lactating. Also remember that the production of safflower supplements in the United States is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, so purchase the highest quality of the product as possible.
References
- "Chinese Pharmacy"; Effects of Carthamus Tinctorius on Oxidative Stress of Kidney in Rats with Diabetic Nephropathy; LIU Shen-wei, et al.; 2009
- "Asian Journal of Experimental Sciences"; Antihyperglycemic activity of methanolic extract of Carthamus tinctorius L., Annigere-2; M. Paramesha, et al.; 2009
- "Clinical Nutrition"; Time-Dependent Effects of Safflower Oil to Improve Glycemia, Inflammation and Blood Lipids in Obese, Post-Menopausal Women with Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized, Double-Masked, Crossover Study; Michelle L. Asp, et al.; February 2011
- Drugs.com: Safflower
