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Saffron
藏红花 〔藏紅花〕zàng hóng huā
Latin pharmacognostic name: Croci Stigma
Alternate Chinese names: 洎夫蓝 jì fū lán; 番红花 fān hóng huā; 西藏红花 xi zàng hóng huā; 藏红花 zàng hóng huā.
Kingdom: Plant
Origin in PRC Pharmacopoeia: Crocus sativus L. (PRC Pharmacopoeia)
Origin (other sources): Crocus sativus L.*
Use: Medicinal
Category:
Properties: Sweet; slightly cold.
Channel entry: Heart and liver channels.
Indications:
Xī hóng huā is similar to hóng huā in that it quickens the blood, transforms stasis, and frees menstruation but is stronger in these actions. It also cools the blood and resolves toxin. It is particularly suitable for warm disease with heat entering the blood aspect, manifesting in macular eruption. It may also be used for depressed heat with blood stasis. Xī hóng huā is used at a dose of 1‒3 g in decoctions, as well as in medicinal liquors and other preparations. It is contraindicated in pregnancy.
Dosage & Method: Oral: 1‒3g in decoctions, as well as in medicinal liquors and other preparations.
Warnings: Contraindicated in pregnancy.
Notes: This item more expensive than hóng huā (Carthami Flos), but it is stronger and more potent by weight. It is also slightly cold in nature, whereas hóng huā is slightly warm.
Quality: Soft, oily, bright red stigmas with a sheen are best. When placed in water, the coloring should sink vertically, and then gradually diffuse, creating a trumpet of color.
Product Area: Tibet. Biggest producers are Greece and Spain.
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