Zang Hong Hua (藏红花) is saffron, the stigma of the crocus, recorded as Stigma Croci.
Names
Pinyin
zàng hóng huā
Chinese
藏红花
Latin Name
Stigma Croci
English Name
Tibetan saffron
Actions and indications
Invigorates Blood, dispels stasis and promotes menstruation
Absent periods from Blood stasis
Lochia retained after childbirth
A stifling, full feeling in the chest and diaphragm brought on by emotional distress
Cools Blood and resolves toxicity
High fever with a pale red maculopapular rash
Calms the Shen (associated use)
Low mood, by long-standing association
Cautions
pregnancy Contraindicated in pregnancy: a strong Blood mover long linked with bringing on menstruation and uterine contraction, and high intake or workplace exposure has been associated with uterine stimulation and a greater chance of miscarriage
caution A bleeding tendency, anticoagulant or antiplatelet treatment, or an upcoming operation: use only under professional supervision
caution Heavy menstrual bleeding
caution Side effects commonly reported in trials were nausea, dry mouth, poor appetite and headache, with no serious reactions recorded
caution Adulteration is common, so a product sold as saffron may be dyed safflower, turmeric or marigold; confirm the identity of what is supplied
Interactions
Drug interactions
Antidepressants, including SSRIs: saffron has been trialled against these drugs and added to them, so anyone already on an antidepressant should leave the decision to combine to their prescriber (precautionary)
Anticoagulant and antiplatelet medicines: caution is standard for Blood-invigorating herbs (precautionary; no interaction documented)