Abstract of published research articles in Ayurveda
AYU Vol. 30 Issue No. 3 (July-Sept. 2009)
Id.No.30308
Review on Official Requirements/Standards of Crocus
Sativus
L. (Saffron)
*R. B. Saxena
Drug Standardization Research Project, Central Research
Institute in Ayurveda, Amkhoo,
Gwalior
Abstract:
The question of standardization of quality
control depends on the nature of saffron(king of spices; Family-
Iridaceae) and compound drugs, on its source, which are the
potent cause of variation in the properties and processesthrough which it is subjected to pass. With the
globalization and urbanization, several lexicographers attempted
for compendia of saffron in the medieval period, have given
scope for substitution/ adulteration. Hence, the need of
standardisation of traditional medicine (saffron) by applying
scientific techniques is identified in the middle of the 20thcentury.
For their requirement, quality grading was prepared by different
countries and some of them applied. India and Spain have well prepared the
standard values of saffron. Due to globalization, the quality
grading is made according to specification in protocols proposed
by International Standards Organisation (ISO). Different
standards and objections in the official requirements/ standards
of saffron have been reviewed.
