Saffron {Crocus sativus}

Saffron balances Vata and Kapha

Ayurveda Characteristic and Uses

1. Effect on doshas – Good for pacifying Vata and Kapha
2. Taste – Pungent, bitter
3. Energetics – Heating
4. Main Traditional Action: Tumor inhibiting effect, carminative, rejuvenator, spasmolytic
5. Other Traditional Uses: pigmentation stimulating, antipoisonous, cardiotonic, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, febrifuge, stimulant, lactogogue, livotonic, nervine tonic, sedative and styptic properties, acne, apoplexy, arthritis, asthma, colic, cough dyspepsia, hemierania, insect bites and stings, liver disorders, mental disorders, neurasthenia, edema, painful menstruation, phthisis, prolapse of anus, sore throat and splenic disorders, and improving weak eyesight.

Modern Research

Saffron and its components have been investigated for a number of biological activities such as: reproductive activity, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anxiolytic, wound healing in burn injuries, anticarcinogenic, anti-mutagenic, immunomodulating, depression, eye diseases, extracellular concentration of glutamate and aspartate in the hippocampus, anticonvulsant, chemotherapeutic agent, genoprotective ability, stimulating effect on beta 2-adrenoceptor receptors, kidney and urinary disorders, spatial memory, psychiatric disorders, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, respiratory disorders, hypolipidemic, cerebral ischemia, tyrosinase inhibitory activity, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and ocular blood flow and retinal function.