Saffron, Crocus sativus - American Botanical Council

Crocus sativus is a member of the iris family (Iridaceae) and, while naturalized in the Mediterranean and parts of Asia, it is unknown in the wild. Because the three stigma in each flower must be hand collected, saffron is the most expensive spice in the world. In addition to its culinary use, saffron has many traditional medicinal uses.

The American Botanical Council (ABC) is passionate about helping people live healthier lives through the responsible use of herbs and medicinal plants. As an independent, nonprofit education organization, ABC is dedicated to providing accurate and reliable information for consumers, healthcare practitioners, researchers, educators, industry and the media.

Please enjoy this information on saffron made available through the generosity of Pharmactive’s adoption.

Additional ABC Saffron Resources

Saffron monograph in The Complete German Commission E Monographs—Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines.

Saffron monograph in The Identification of Medicinal Plants.

HerbalGram Articles

Saffron: The Salubrious Spice. Emerging Research Suggests Numerous Health Benefits. 2016; 110:61-71.

HerbClip reviews

Review of the Pharmacology of Saffron and Its Bioactive Components. HC# 041851, May 15, 2018

Clinical Trial Finds Saffron Effective in the Treatment of Mild Depression and Anxiety in Youth. HC# 041861-591, April 30, 2018

Review of Pharmacology of Saffron and Its Constituents. HC# 051746-581, November 30, 2017

Saffron of Potential Benefit in Certain Cognitive, Mood, Vision, and Menstrual Conditions and Apparently Safe in Therapeutic Doses. HC# 091565-538, February 15, 2016