What are the functions and indications of saffron?

Saffron is a perennial flower belonging to the genus Crocus of Iridaceae family, and is also a common spice. It originated in southern Europe and is cultivated all over China. Its functions and indications are mainly reflected in the following aspects: 1. The role of uterus: The decoction has an excitatory effect on the isolated uterus and in situ uterus of mice, guinea pigs, rabbits, dogs and cats. A small dose can cause tonic or rhythmic contraction of the uterus, and a large dose can increase the tonic and excitatory properties of the uterus. The automatic contraction rate increases, even reaching the level of spasm, and the pregnant uterus is more sensitive; In the experiment of uterine fistula in rabbits, it also shows exciting effect, after one administration, the effect can last for 4 hours. 2. Effect on circulatory system: The decoction can reduce the blood pressure of anesthetized dogs and cats, and can maintain it for a long time. It also has exciting effect on respiration. When lowering blood pressure, the kidney volume decreases, showing renal vasoconstriction. It also has contractive effect on toad blood vessels. 3. Effect on blood system: Crocus sativus hot water extract has significant anti-coagulation effect. It can prolong plasma prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time.(APTT), inhibit platelet aggregation induced by adenosine diphosphate (ADP), accelerate erythrocyte sedimentation rate. In vitro test, saffron decoction can significantly enhance fibrinolytic activity. 4. Anti-tumor: Modern research has found that saffron preparation has obvious anti-cancer ability. 5. Others: The appropriate amount of saffron has sedative, expectorant, antispasmodic effects on the human body. It is used for the treatment of stomach problems, menstruation, measles, fever, jaundice, hepatosplenomegaly, etc. It should be noted that pregnant women and menorrhagia should be used with caution. In addition, the identification methods of saffron authenticity are as follows: 1. Soaking water method: Real saffron is a flower stamen, even saffron powder is orange, after soaking in boiling water, the water will take on a very clear color. If the water is red, and there is no smell, it may be fake saffron. 2. Observation: Put saffron in a plastic bag, shake it again, and pad it with white A4 paper to see if there is a layer of obvious yellow color. If there is, it is true, and if there is no, it may be fake. 3. Smell: Authentic saffron has a strong floral fragrance, while fake saffron has no taste.