{"id":6833,"date":"2022-05-12T19:28:08","date_gmt":"2022-05-12T18:28:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/?post_type=herb&p=6833"},"modified":"2025-04-14T11:02:30","modified_gmt":"2025-04-14T10:02:30","slug":"saffron","status":"publish","type":"herb","link":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/saffron\/","title":{"rendered":"Saffron"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":6844,"parent":0,"menu_order":-230,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","beyondwords_generate_audio":"1","beyondwords_project_id":"47224","beyondwords_content_id":"8a5b7de1-fe33-441e-8d1c-55fe3fc41a03","beyondwords_preview_token":"41f42e8d-5c44-451e-a41b-ed28904abeb2","beyondwords_player_content":"","beyondwords_player_style":"","beyondwords_language_code":"","beyondwords_language_id":"","beyondwords_title_voice_id":"","beyondwords_body_voice_id":"","beyondwords_summary_voice_id":"","beyondwords_error_message":"","beyondwords_disabled":"","beyondwords_delete_content":"","beyondwords_podcast_id":"","beyondwords_hash":"","publish_post_to_speechkit":"","speechkit_hash":"","speechkit_generate_audio":"","speechkit_project_id":"","speechkit_podcast_id":"","speechkit_error_message":"","speechkit_disabled":"","speechkit_access_key":"","speechkit_error":"","speechkit_info":"","speechkit_response":"","speechkit_retries":"","speechkit_status":"","speechkit_updated_at":"","_speechkit_link":"","_speechkit_text":""},"tags":[411,783,42,208,179,716,782,559],"conditions":[694,685,701,696,698],"sustainability":[1576],"sense":[17,18,16,27],"western_action":[1003,989,999,1001,1008,1009,1017,1829],"chinese_action":[],"ayurvedic_action":[1117,1111,1072,1091,1100,1081,1097],"energetics_action":[1498,1557,1561,1614,1559,1616,1534,1627,1554,1543,1488,1558,1560,1491,1626,1556,1497,1539,1617,1562,1495,1494,1545,1625,1550,1380],"region":[1893],"class_list":["post-6833","herb","type-herb","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tag-anti-inflammatory","tag-cardiovaascular","tag-digestion","tag-immunity","tag-nervous","tag-reproductive","tag-saffron","tag-spice","conditions-cardiovascular-system","conditions-digestive-system","conditions-immune-system","conditions-nervous-system","conditions-reproductive-system","sustainability-green-sustainability-status","sense-aromatic","sense-bitter","sense-hot","sense-sweet","western_action-carminatives","western_action-alterative","western_action-aphrodisiac","western_action-bitter","western_action-diuretic","western_action-emmenagogue","western_action-nervine","western_action-thymoleptic","ayurvedic_action-yogavahi","ayurvedic_action-varnya","ayurvedic_action-dipaniya","ayurvedic_action-rasayani","ayurvedic_action-shukrala","ayurvedic_action-kushtaghna","ayurvedic_action-shonita-sthapana","energetics_action-bitter","energetics_action-blood","energetics_action-bones","energetics_action-digestive","energetics_action-fat","energetics_action-female-reproductive","energetics_action-heating","energetics_action-kapha-balancing","energetics_action-kapha-constitution-dosha","energetics_action-light","energetics_action-moist","energetics_action-muscle","energetics_action-nervous","energetics_action-neutralising","energetics_action-pitta-balancing","energetics_action-plasma","energetics_action-pungent","energetics_action-pungent-post-digestive-effect-vipaka","energetics_action-reproductive-channel-srotas","energetics_action-reproductive","energetics_action-salty","energetics_action-sweet","energetics_action-unctuous","energetics_action-vata-balancing","energetics_action-vata-constitution-dosha","energetics_action-warm","region-western-herbs"],"acf":{"last_reviewed":"20220512","herb_author":null,"banner_text":"Saffron is a deeply nourishing aromatic nervine and blood tonic","latin_name":"Crocus sativus<\/em>","pseudonym_name":"","family_name":"Iridaceae","herb_summary":"A highly esteemed herb, with a wealth of history for use in treatment of depression and diseases of the nervous system. Potent and powerful, saffron can be used in small doses to support the nervous system, and improve cardiovascular health, nourishing and regenerating to the blood system and the soft tissues in the body.","key_benefits":"Anti-inflammatory\r\nCarminative\r\nAnti-microbial\r\nGalactagogue","how_does_it_feel":"Saffron increases one\u2019s sense of physical and psychological wellbeing. When the circulation and blood quality is improved, increased energy and nutrition is delivered to the cells, enhancing the health status and function in all of the systems of the body.\r\n\r\nSaffron is mildly bitter, with a sweet and warming energy. In Ayurveda, saffron treats conditions of excess\u00a0Vata\u00a0<\/em>(in simple terms,\u00a0vata<\/em>, is the humour of air and space that creates dry and cold conditions). A Sattvic\u00a0<\/em>herb; whose actions on the blood bring about feelings love and compassion.","hdif_image_1":6841,"hdif_image_2":6844,"hdif_image_3":6843,"hdif_video":"","sense":[17,18,16,27],"what_can_i_use_it_for":"\"\"Saffron is one of the more expensive herbs in the Materia Medica, so may not be the best \u2018go-to\u2019 for acute conditions where a more accessible option could be available. However, it presents a unique balance of properties that can make it a desirable\u00a0 herb of choice to support during times of emotional fragility.\r\n\r\nSaffron supports the nervous system, which includes the peripheral nerves and the brain.\r\n\r\nIt can be helpful to use where issues in the menstrual cycle present with symptoms of menstrual pain, headaches and low mood due to its antidepressant, mood elevating properties.\r\n\r\nIt can also be a herb of choice incorporated into culinary recipes for digestive support or to increase assimilation and absorption of nutrients from the diet.","into_the_heart_of":"\"\"Energetically, saffron gives a glow of love and warmth. Like any herb that supports the circulation and the nervous system, saffron increases mental wellbeing by nourishing the nerves and increasing the movement of blood and energy in the tissues.\r\n\r\nIn Ayurveda, saffron is described as\u00a0Sattvic\u00a0<\/em>(a quality of lovingness and compassion, reflected in nature), giving the nurturing energy of love. It would therefore be indicated for those experiencing grief or other emotional pain, possibly accompanied by a depressed emotional state.\r\n\r\nSaffron supports and uplifts with its gentle nurturing energy, whilst supporting the physical systems most effected by this condition.\r\n\r\nDescribed as one of the best aphrodisiac herbs, saffron improves libido, raises feelings of love and sensuality. Saffron improves the circulation to the reproductive organs making it a wonderful tonic herb for both men and women.","tradtional_uses":"\"\"The use of saffron in treatment of mood disorders such as depression has a long tradition, ranging from antiquity to modern times. It is long believed that Saffron may have a modulating effect on certain chemicals in the brain, including serotonin which is fundamental for good mental health (8).\r\n\r\nSaffron has also a long standing history of use for digestive issues, with its carminative action and ability to support digestion (9).\r\n\r\nTraditionally Saffron was indicated for treatment of measles, as a diaphoretic herb (a herb that induces sweating) (9). It may have been used to support the important immunological process of a viral fever. It was also traditionally used in the prevention of complications associated with the pox\u2019s (smallpox and chickenpox) such as retrocession of the classic rash that in some cases infects the nerves and visceral organs, rather than coming out through the skin. One of the old treatments for this was saffron as a circulatory stimulant. It was believed to help bring out the rash and protect the nerves (10).","what_practioners_say":"\"\"In creating a balanced prescription of multiple herbs, a herbalist will often use an aromatic herb to harmonise a blend. Aromatic herbs, such as Saffron, increase the digestive fire, improving assimilation and absorption of nutrients and medicinal compounds whilst assisting to deliver them to the tissues that need them.\r\n\r\nAromatic herbs are also often nervine (nourishing or benefitting the nervous system) and as they often have a pleasing taste, they tend to tie herbal formulations together. This adds a final harmonizing note to a prescription, forging the unique quality of herbal medicines that they can engage all the senses of the patient.\r\n\r\nAs an expensive but also extremely potent herb, saffron will most often be used in subtle or lower quantities as part of a prescription.\r\n\r\nSaffron is used by Western herbalists to treat a number of conditions associated with the nervous and cardiovascular systems, as well as to support those suffering with depression.\r\n\r\nLike other herbs that contain high levels of volatile oils (aromatic compounds), saffron is described in Ayurvedic tradition as a herb that is supportive for the digestive fire. As with many aromatic plants, saffron will offer increased digestive function, also improving the assimilation of nutrients from the diet (1,2).\r\n\r\nIt is indicated where general tissue state is diminished, in conditions whose characteristics are dry and cold. In terms of tissue types that saffron supports, this would be epithelial and nervous tissue specifically.\r\n\r\nA classic presentation for this dry and cold pattern of illness would present with pallid complexion, heightened sense of coldness, slow movement, decreased intensity of sensation. Fatigue and difficulty thinking clearly. Pale tongue or bluish and slow pulse. Achy, dull pain that feels better with heat or warming herbs. Food stagnation, flatulence, bloating and belching may occur as a result of reduced digestive fire. The underlying cold would need to be treated with warming, stimulating herbs such as saffron.\r\n\r\nIt is thought to be one of the best herbs for liver \u2013 spleen regulation, and for generally supporting metabolism. A herb that supports the actions of other herbs through increased assimilation and movement into the tissues of the body (1).\r\n\r\nIn the Traditional Western practice, in order to identify the status of tissue health (namely epithelial tissue\/ mucous membranes \u2013 that which lines the inner surface of most internal organs and orifices) a herbalist will visually observe the tongue, inner eyelids combined with an in depth analysis of physical health under consultation. Observing the overall tissue state of the person as well as any local and obvious anomalies can greatly enhance a herbalist\u2019s ability to identify the nature of an ailment and treatment approaches. Saffron would be best applied where there is atrophy or weakness in the tissues of the nervous system or where the epithelial tissue is under stimulated and cellular health is diminished.","research":"

\"\"<\/strong>Type 2 diabetes<\/h3>\r\nDiabetes is characterized by high blood sugar, which can lead to chronic damage to the heart, nerves and blood vessels. Research shows that saffron can reduce diabetic complications, for example it can reduce fasting plasma glucose levels and can significantly reduce waist circumference (15).\r\n

Depression<\/h3>\r\nIn a double-blind, placebo-controlled, single-centre and randomized trial, patients were randomly assigned to receive a capsule of dried saffron 30 mg a day or a placebo capsule for the duration of a 6-week study. At 6 weeks, Crocus sativus<\/em>\u00a0produced a significantly better outcome on the Hamilton depression rating scale than the placebo. The results of this study indicate the efficacy of\u00a0Crocus sativus<\/em> in the treatment of mild to moderate depression (12).\r\n\r\nIn another double-blind, single-centre trial and randomized trial, patients were randomly assigned to receive capsules of saffron 30 mg\/day (BD) and capsule of fluoxetine (an antidepressant of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class) at 20 mg\/day for a 6-week study. At this dose, Saffron was found to be almost equally as effective as fluoxetine in the treatment of mild to moderate depression. The results of this study indicate the efficacy of Crocus sativus<\/em> in the treatment of mild to moderate depression. Saffron effects serotonin levels, and so this is one of the ways it can affect mood. The aqueous extract of saffron increases brain dopamine, as well as glutamate concentrations (17).\r\n

Nervous system<\/h3>\r\nA nourishing nervine herb, saffron has a direct action upon the nervous system. This can be applied as part of a supportive approach for conditions of the mind, such as anxiety, depression and nervous debility. It is a plant that has uplifting and mood enhancing qualities (1,11,12).\r\n\r\nBecause saffron improves blood flow to the brain and peripheral nerves, saffron is also indicated for degenerative and debilitating diseases associated with the nervous system such as Alzheimer\u2019s and dementia (18,19). 2 separate clinical trials were conducted on patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer\u2019s disease (18,19). The efficacy of treatment was evaluated using the AD Assessment Scale and cognitive subscale, as well as the Clinical Dementia Rating Scale. The research shows that saffron produced a significantly superior outcome on cognitive function when compared to placebo. The effectiveness of improving cognition was equal to that of the pharmaceutical donepezil. Both decreased the score in Clinical Dementia Rating Scale by 0.7-0.8, and the Alzheimer\u2019s Disease Assessment Scale by 3.7 (18,19).\r\n\r\nIn Ayurveda, saffron is also used to treat headaches, such as tension headaches likely ones caused by stress and anxiety this is due to saffrons ability to support and nourish the nervous system and to improve cerebral circulation increasing circulation of blood in the brain and improving the health of the micro-capilliaries (2). It is important to seek professional advice for ongoing headaches to gain understanding of the root cause, as well as to ensure the correct course of treatment.\r\n

Cardiovascular<\/h3>\r\nIn another trial 50mg of saffron was dissolved in 100ml of milk and administered twice a day to 20 people of which 10 of them had heart disease. There was a consistent reduction in lipoprotein oxidation susceptibility observed after 3 and 6 weeks. This is good because lipid oxidation promotes premature coronary atherosclerosis and is also implicated in other cardiovascular disorders. This is potentially due to the antioxidant effect of saffron (16).\r\n\r\nScience has shown that saffron has hypotensive, anti-ischemic, anti-platelet aggregation, anti-atherosclerotic, antioxidant, anti-diabetic and hypolipidemic effects which is why this plant can be considered as a potential treatment for cardiovascular health or a valuable part of a more complex formulation (15).\r\n

Alzheimers<\/h3>\r\n2 separate clinical trials were conducted on patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer\u2019s disease. The efficacy of treatment was evaluated using the AD Assessment Scale and cognitive subscale, as well as the Clinical Dementia Rating Scale. The research shows that saffron produced a significantly superior outcome on cognitive function when compared to placebo. The effectiveness of improving cognition was equal to that of the pharmaceutical donepezil. Both decreased the score in Clinical Dementia Rating Scale by 0.7-0.8, and the Alzheimer\u2019s Disease Assessment Scale by 3.7.\r\n

Premenstrual syndrome<\/h3>\r\nA study showed that administration of 15mg twice a day saffron capsules, for 2 menstrual cycles helped reduce depression score on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. The saffron extract also reduced menstruation symptoms when compared to placebo.\r\n\r\nSerotonin, or 5-hydroxytryptamine, is a mood-elevating neurotransmitter synthesized from tryptophan (an amino acid). Serotonin plays a key role in such body functions as mood, sleep, digestion, nausea, wound healing, bone health, blood clotting and sexual desire.\r\n

Hormones and gynaecology<\/h3>\r\nSaffron is indicated for a number of gynaecological conditions associated with blood deficiency. Specifically used to bring on a delayed menstruation or in dysmenorrhea (severe menstrual cramps and pain). Saffron improves tissue health in the female reproductive system, due to its ability to improve blood flow to the reproductive organs. Saffron is sometimes used in Ayurvedic medicine as part of an approach for treating fertility issues. Particularly those caused by depressed tissue states (dry and cold condition of the epithelium- mucous membranes of the reproductive system, which is sometimes rooted in nutritional deficiency or poor circulation, for both of which saffron can be supportive). It is important to seek professional advice for fertility issues to gain understanding of the root cause and as well as to ensure the correct course of treatment. Herbal medicine can be very supportive for fertility issues as shown by our case studies.\r\n\r\nA well known aphrodisiac, Saffron promotes tissue growth and circulation to the reproductive organs, improving virility, libido and sexual function in both men and women (1,2).\r\n\r\nA study showed that administration of 15mg twice a day saffron capsules, for 2 menstrual cycles helped reduce depression score on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. The saffron extract also reduced menstruation symptoms when compared to placebo (20).\r\n\r\nSerotonin, or 5-hydroxytryptamine, is a mood-elevating neurotransmitter synthesized from tryptophan (an amino acid). Serotonin plays a key role in such body functions as mood, sleep, digestion, nausea, wound healing, bone health, blood clotting and sexual desire.\r\n

Immune system<\/h3>\r\nSaffron contains numerous antioxidant compounds, suggesting that it may be useful in an adjunctive approach to improve cellular health. There is some promising research into the application of saffron as a chemoprotective (5,6). A chemoprotective is a herb or medicine that can be used to protect healthy tissue from the side effects of certain anticancer drugs. Studies have shown saffron has potential antioxidant, antimutagenic, tumoricidal, antigenotoxic properties. There has been much research around saffron for many different kinds of cancer including skin, colorectal, liver and many more. However much of the research has been conducted on cells and animals. Therefore, more investigations need to be conducted to see if saffron can be useful with cancer as an adjunctive treatment. Plants can be not only potentially valuable for direct cancer treatment, but also for alleviating the side effects of conventional treatment (14).\r\n\r\nSaffron is a rich source of carotenoids making it a potent cell oxygenator. These carotenoids have been shown to increase the supply of oxygen in the blood cells (6). This can support optimal function of immune cells, as low oxygen levels have been shown to impede immune function. Generally better oxygenation benefits all cells in the body.","did_you_know":"It takes around 160 flowers to produce 1g of saffron.","additional_information_right":{"illustration":7070},"additional_information_left":{"botany":"An autumn-flowering perennial, saffron has been in cultivation and use for more than 3,500 years across many cultures, continents, and civilisations. Saffron has a corm (otherwise described as a bulbo-tuber- likened to both a bulb and a tuber), from which grows the leaves, bracts, bracteole, and a single flowering stalk. <\/span>C. sativus<\/span><\/i> generally blooms with a single beautiful deep purple flower in the autumn, from which 3 red \/ orange stigma grow, these are what makes up the well loved spice used in herbal medicine and eastern cuisine today. The whole plant grows up to around 10 to 30 cm high.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs a result of selective breeding <\/span>Crocus sativus<\/span><\/i> species is sterile, meaning that it is unable to reproduce. Therefore this species does not grow in the wild. The plant\u2019s genetic fault is thought to have been caused by a hybridisation with an earlier form of this plant, <\/span>C. Cartwrightianus<\/span><\/i>, which native to Greece, yet this is not fully understood.<\/span>","common_names":"