Saffron

(saf’-ron) [Arab., zafardn, saffron]. The Crocus sativus, a plant of the order Irideae. Its stigmas (Crocus, U. S. P., B.P.) contain a glucosid, coloring matter (croc in), SAFRANIN 5 and a bitter principle. S. is used as a coloring and flavoring agent, and in the form of a tea to bring out the eruption of the exanthematous diseases. 563