The Flowers of Carthamus tinctorius : Potential Agent for Postmenopausal Disorder

In this study, 75% ethanol extract from the flowers of Carthamus tinctorius was prepared and biological activities were examined. The extract showed the inhibitory activity of vascular smooth muscle contraction and antithrombotic activity judged by bleeding time measurement. It also showed anti-inflammatory and potent analgesic activities in vivo. By oral administration of the extract, no acute toxicity was observed up to 5 g/kg in mice and rats. All these results strongly suggest that this extract may be beneficial for postmenopausal disorder by enhancing blood circulation.