Saffron

Saffron Crocus sativus

Description and composition:

Saffron is a plant resembling an onion,45 cms high. Commercial saffron consists of the dried stigma and tops of the style of the flowers. It is one of the world’s costliest herbs.

Saffron contains an essential oil that consists of terpenes, terpene alcohols and esters. Its other constituents are crocin and picrocrocin.

This expensive spice has been reputed to work like a sex hormone and make erogenous zones even more sensitive. Saffron is made from the dried stigmas of a type of crocus. About 225,000 stigmas are needed to make one pound of saffron. (Each crocus has about 3 stigmas, which must be picked by hand.) Try adding a pinch of saffron to Mediterranean, North African or Middle Eastern grain dishes such as Paella, a traditional Spanish rice dish that contains sausage and seafood.

Healing power and curative properties

Saffron is largely used in indigenous medicines across India. It enjoys a great reputation as a drug, which strengthens the functioning of stomach, and promotes its action. the drug also counteracts spasmodic disorders, that is sustained involuntary muscle contraction. it is a stimulant and promotes libido.

Digestive disorders:

Saffron is beneficial in the treatment of several digestive disorders especially flatulent colic.

Women’s Ailments:

The herb is useful in promoting and regulating menstrual periods. It soothes lumber pains, which accompany menstruation. Saffron is also beneficial in the treatment of other ailments concerning women such as leucorrhoea and hysteria. Pessaries of saffron are used in painful conditions of the uterus.

Skin disorders:

Saffron is useful in treatment of skin disorders. a paste of the herb can be used as dressing for the bruises and superficial sores.

Precaution:

Pregnant women should not take the drug in large doses as it may cause abortion.