32001

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 13:32
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Saffron

  • Botanical Name

    Crocus sativus

  • Part Used

    Stigma & style

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    50%

  • Dose

    5 to 25mL weekly

Throughout the past three decades increased scientific attention has been given to examining saffron’s use as a potential therapeutic or preventive agent for a number of health conditions including cancer, cardiovascular disease and depression. Findings from initial clinical trials suggest that saffron can improve the symptoms and effects of depression, premenstrual syndrome, sexual dysfunction and infertility and excessive snacking behaviours. Preliminary trials of saffron’s impact on brain function and the management of Alzheimer’s disease are promising. 

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Saffron and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Saffron, one of the world’s costliest substances, is a spice known by many ancient civilisations for its various properties especially the medicinal uses. Though saffron is best known for its use in traditional Persian medicine it was also used by the ancient Greeks and Egyptians, as well as in the Ayurvedic tradition of India. Its traditional medical indications were many and included cramps, asthma, menstrual conditions, liver disease and pain. In Ayurveda, saffron is said to support the tonic action of other herbs (such as shatavari) and when used as a spice promotes assimilation of food into deeper tissues.

  • Actions

    Nervine tonic, antidepressant, anxiolytic, adaptogen (TCM), neuroprotective, cognitive enhancer, sedative, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, antinociceptive, analgesic, anticonvulsant, expectorant, emmenagogue, aphrodisiac, cardiotonic, hypotensive, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, hypoglycaemic, hypolipidaemic

  • Indications

    •    Low mood, mild to moderate depression, anxiety, insomnia, cognitive disorders, to improve brain function, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease
    •    Respiratory issues including cough, asthma 
    •    Liver disease
    •    To support normal menstruation and for menstruation problems such as dysmenorrhoea, PMS, chronic uterine haemorrhage
    •    Pain, spasms, osteoarthritis, traditionally used for seizures
    •    Colic, bedwetting
    •    Cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, weight loss, obesity, metabolic syndrome
    •    To support healthy retinal function, eye health, macular degeneration 
    •    Fevers
    •    Potential role in the treatment of cancer

  • Energetics

    Sweet, neutral

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Saffron has been used as a spice and food colouring agent for centuries and is likely to be safe when consumed in the usual dietary doses. Whether high dose saffron is safe in pregnancy remains to be confirmed.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    Saffron should be used under professional supervision in the treatment of any mental health condition to promote safety.

  • Drug Interactions

    Caution with antihypertensive drugs and calcium channel blockers.

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Zizyphus, Valerian, Passion Flower, Hops, Californian Poppy, Magnolia, Scullcap, Lemon Balm, Lime Flowers