SAFFRON (Crocus satirus)

DESCRIPTION: Saffron is a spice derived from the flower of Crocus sativus, commonly known as the "saffron crocus". This spice has grass-like leaves and large lily-shaped flowers, inhabiting the European continent, and frequently cultivated for the sake of the yellow stigmas, which are the part used in medicine, in domestic economy and in the arts.

POTENTIAL BENEFITS: Saffron is used in the treatment of respiratory illnesses like asthma, cough, whooping cough (pertussis), and to loosen phlegm (as an expectorant). It is also used for to treat sleep problems, cancer, gas and bloating, depression, Alzheimer’s disease, fright, shock, pain, heartburn and dry skin. Women use saffron for menstrual cramps and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Men use it to prevent early orgasm (premature ejaculation) and infertility.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS: Saffron is generally safe in short duration when taken as a medicine. Some possible side effects include dry mouth, anxiety, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, change in appetite, and headache. Allergic reactions can occur in some people. Large amounts of saffron is unsafe as high doses can cause poisoning and a yellow appearance of the skin, eyes and mucous membranes, vomiting, dizziness, bloody diarrhea, along with bleeding from the nose, lips and eyelids.

PARTS USED: Flower

GENERAL USAGE: Expectorant, astringent, anti-depressant, anti-bacterial, diaphoretic, anti-cancer, anodyne.

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