Safflower

The Safflower in Ancient Egypt


 * Egyptian Name:**

K't' or Khino


 * Hieroglyphics:**



The ancient Egyptians were fond of the safflower as a decorative item, and garlands have been found on mummies. The husks were used as a feed for livestock, and the plant was grown as a border to vegetable and field crops. The oil was used in salads and cooking, and as a base for pigments. Chemical analysis of ancient Egyptian textiles dated to the 12th Dynasty identified a yellow dye made from safflower. Garlands made from safflowers were found in the tomb of the pharaoh Tutankhamen. Pliny mentions that the Egyptians rubbed safflower oil on the body as a protection against poisonous stings.

The Flowers of Ancient Egypt

The Fiber and Oil Plants of Ancient Egypt