- Region
- Asia
- Origin
- Asia (west), Europe (southeast) (known only in cultivation)
- Sanskrit
- Kumkuma
Asia · Herb · № 345
Crocus sativus
Herb · Asia
Saffron
Crocus sativus
Traditionally attributed effects: stimulating, aphrodisiac, stomachic, pain-relieving, antispasmodic, calming, promotes menstruation; for absent menstruation, fever, hysteria, melancholy, leucorrhoea, haemorrhoids; paste for bruises, nerve and rheumatic pain.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Preparation
Tincture 5–20 drops; tea 28–112 ml; paste externally.
Use in traditions
Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica and Ayurveda in the kitchen and daily care. Sanskrit name: Kumkuma. Saffron consists of the stigmas of a crocus; some 150,000 flowers are needed for one kilo. It is grown in Kashmir, Iran and Spain and is the most expensive spice in the world. Some studies point to an effect in mild depression.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Ayurvedic materia medica
Attributed effects
Stimulating, aphrodisiac, stomachic, pain-relieving, antispasmodic, calming, promotes menstruation; for absent menstruation, fever, hysteria, melancholy, leucorrhoea, haemorrhoids; paste for bruises, nerve and rheumatic pain.
Preparation and amount
Tincture 5–20 drops; tea 28–112 ml; paste externally.
Everyday Ayurveda
Attributed effects
Rejuvenating, helps with headache (internally and externally), bitter; good for the skin (cosmetics) and for pregnant women.
Preparation and amount
4–6 threads in spiced milk or sooji; 10–20 threads in a face mask; externally with ghee for headache; in soap substitute.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Tea (infusion)TinctureCompress, poultice and paste