Saffron is not only popular as a spice and a stimulant but it can also help in treating urinary, digestive and psychological ailments.

Botanical: Crocus sativus
Family: N.O. Iridaceae
Synonym:Crocus. Karcom. Krokos.

Habitat:

Saffron which was originally found in Southern Europe is now cultivated in Spain, Austria, France, Greece, England, Turkey, Iran, India and China.

Iranian Saffron is slightly different in appearance from European Saffron and its odor is remarkably stronger.

Description:

Saffron is a bulbous perennial plant, ranging from 10 to 30 cm in height. The bulb is meaty and round, although somewhat flat at the base. It is white colored on the inside, covered with a fibrous and rough brown colored membrane on the outside.

The flowers surging from the bulb in 3 mm diameter stems, later develop into two purple to violet colored membranes.

The flower is called the 'Saffron Rose' and consists of six elliptical pieces.

Part Used Medicinally:

Flower pistils.

Constituents:

Saffron contains protein, essence, fixed oil, starch, fiber, iron, sodium, potassium, yellow colored glycosides, Alfa and beta carotenes, vitamin B1 and B2, phytone, phytofluene, terahydrocopene, Zeaxanthin and Crocetin.

Saffron's essence includes pinene, safranal, and cineol. Its bitter taste is caused by picrocrocin.

Medicinal Uses:

On account of Saffron's coloring and aromatic properties, it is commonly used as a food additive by chefs from all over the world.

Medicines containing saffron are used to treat acne, warts, condylomatas and several other skin diseases.

Its paste can help reduce the inflammation of the eyelids and behind the ears, it can alleviate headaches and be applied as a dressing for bruises and superficial sores.

Saffron is used to cure chronic diseases such as asthma and arthritis. It is also useful in cold and cough treatment.

Ancient texts contain information about the aphrodisiac effects of Saffron.

It is believed to be good for treating various digestive disorders, especially flatulent colic.

It counteracts spasmodic disorders and sustains involuntary muscular contractions.

Saffron is used in treating fevers, melancholia, and liver and spleen enlargements.

A combination of saffron and ghee is used to treat diabetes.

Saffron is used as a strengthening agent for the heart and as a cooling agent for the brain. It is an effective antidepressant, antipsychotic and a good treatment for hysteria.

It has been found beneficial in treating urinary problems. When soaked overnight in water and consumed with honey it acts as a diuretic.

Saffron helps promote and regulate menstrual periods, and soothes menstrual cramps. It can also be used to treat other ailments concerning women.

Saffron oil is used as an external application in uterine sores.

Used orally or as a topical agent it can be beneficial in different types of cancers affecting the mouth (oral cavity), ears, eyes, neck, spleen, stomach, bladder, breast, uterine and liver.

In modern pharmacopoeias, saffron is only employed to color other medicines or as a cordial additive.

Preparation:

Half a teaspoon of saffron can be infused in a glass of boiling water and consumed after each meal. It should be noted that no more than 2 grams of saffron should be taken by adults per day.

300 mg of saffron powder helps digestion and the daily use of 0.5 to 1.5 grams of it helps the bowel activity.

Saffron can also be used as a tincture.

Oral consumption of saffron oil is believed to be effective in regulating the blood glucose level and therefore recommended for diabetic patients.

Saffron powder, oil and paste are externally used to treat different types of ulcers.

Caution:

Saffron may induce abortion; hence pregnant women should not consume large doses of it.

Saffron bulbs are toxic to young animals and an overdose of its stigmas has narcotic effects.

PKH/HGH