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Scientific name: Crocus sativus L.Syn: Crocus cartwrightianus Herb., Crocus graecus Helder.
Generic name: Stigma Croci
English names: Saffron , True Saffron , Dye Saffron , Crocus .
Persian name: Saffron
Arabic names: الزاعفران، کروکو.
Type of active ingredient: Saffron contains several plant chemical compounds.
The stigma of this medicinal plant forms several volatile essential oils, the most important of which is safranal, which gives a pleasant taste to saffron. This aromatic plant has many non-volatile active components. The most important of them is α-crocin, which is a carotenoid compound.
This medicinal plant also has other carotenoids such as zeaxanthin, lycopene, alpha and beta carotene. This aromatic plant is a very good source of minerals such as copper, potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, selenium, zinc and magnesium.
The active compounds in this aromatic plant have been used in many traditional medicines since ancient times as antispasmodics, wind breakers, and diuretics. Research studies have shown that Safranal has antioxidant, cytotoxic effects on cancer cells, anticonvulsant and antidepressant properties. Alpha crocin has antioxidant, anti-depressant and anti-cancer properties.
These are important antioxidants that help protect the human body against oxidant stress, cancers, infections, and act as immune modulators.
