Traditional health benefits for plants and this includes saffron should be supported by modern scientific study. Let me present a scientific analysis of the health benefits of this herb. I am presenting a brief overview below:
Saffron is claimed to be useful in conditions related to the heart and liver. It is used to invigorate blood supply, release toxins, and relieve high fevers and related conditions caused by pathogenic heat. Saffron is also used as a herbal cure for cold and cough and in dentistry. The pharmacological data on saffron and its constituents, including crocin, crocetin, and safranal, are similar to those found in Avicenna’s monograph (Phytotherapy Research., 2013, Hosseinzadeh, Nassiri-Asl).
C. sativus is known to have antihypertensive, anticonvulsant, antitussive, antigenotoxic, antioxidant, cytotoxic, anxiolytic, antidepressant, aphrodisiac, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and relaxant properties. Modaghegh et al. (2008) conducted trials on a sample of 10 people who were administered saffron tablets and showed a reduction in both high systolic and arterial blood pressure. It also improves memory, learning, and sleep, and increases blood flow in the retina and choroid. In high doses, it has a narcotic effect.
C. sativus may alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome according to a 2008 study, published in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. After taking C. sativus twice a day during two menstrual cycles, the experiment group showed great improvement in premenstrual symptoms, compared to those assigned a placebo. However, because it is used to break blood clots, those on blood-thinning medications, or women who experience heavy menstruation, should avoid saffron altogether. A New York Langone Medical Centre publication states that trials to validate saffron’s ability to treat depression indicate positive results. The plant also shows promise in the treatment of cancer, reduction of cholesterol, protection against side effects of cisplatin, and enhancement of mental function.
If you would like to take a comprehensive look at saffron, please look here.