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Crocus sativus Saffron (1 Page of 5) The Crocus sativus plant species is found in S. Europe - Greece to W. Asia. It is a member of the Iridaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Saffron. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Crocus sativus Common Name: Saffron Family: Iridaceae Author: L. Known Hazards: The plant is poisonous[21]. The plant is perfectly safe in normal usage but 5 - 10 grammes of saffron has been known to cause death[65]. Mature Height: 0.1 Mature Width: 0.1 Habitat: Not known in a truly wild location[90].
Medicinal Information: Saffron is a famous medicinal herb with a long history of effective use, though it is little used at present because cheaper and more effective herbs are available[4, 7, 254]. The flower styles and stigmas are the parts used, but since these are very small and fiddly to harvest they are very expensive and consequently often adulterated by lesser products[7].
The styles and stigmas are anodyne, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, appetizer, carminative, diaphoretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, sedative and stimulant[4, 7, 21, 174, 176, 218]. They are used as a diaphoretic for children, to treat chronic haemorrhages in the uterus of adults, to induce menstruation, treat period pains and calm indigestion and colic[4, 254]. A dental analgesic is obtained from the stigmas[7]. The styles are harvested in the autumn when the plant is in flower and are dried for later use[4], they do not store well and should be used within 12 months[238]. This remedy should be used with caution[21], large doses can be narcotic[240] and quantities of 10g or more can cause an abortion[218].
For further Crocus sativus gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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