Plant Comparison

Saffron vs Flaxseed

A side-by-side comparison of two medicinal plants — every documented constituent, action, use, safety note and cited source, assembled automatically from the Omnia Sana database.

First plant
Second plant
Show:
Plant ASaffronCrocus sativusIridaceaeFull monograph →
Plant BFlaxseedLinum usitatissimumLinaceaeFull monograph →

At a glance

Saffron and Flaxseed: they share 5 indicated uses (arthritis / joint pain, cancer (anticancer research), inflammation (general), …); 3 pharmacological actions in common.

SaffronFlaxseed
Constituents34
Pharmacological actions64
Indicated uses108
Safety notes24
Cited sources2620
Indicated uses
Only Saffron
Blood sugar / diabetes supportCognitive functionInsomnia / sleeplessnessMemoryMenstrual cramps
Shared (5)
Arthritis / joint painCancer (anticancer research)Inflammation (general)Metabolic supportSkin irritation
Only Flaxseed
BloatingCardiovascular / heart healthIndigestion
Pharmacological actions
Only Saffron
Antidiabetic (blood-sugar lowering)Neuroprotective / cognition supportSedative / sleep support
Shared (3)
Anti-inflammatoryAnticancer (preclinical)Antioxidant
Only Flaxseed
Digestive aid

Evidence face-off — shared uses

ConditionSaffronFlaxseedVerdict
Arthritis / joint pain1/103/10Stronger for Flaxseed
Cancer (anticancer research)8/107/10Comparable evidence
Inflammation (general)1/103/10Stronger for Flaxseed
Metabolic support1/106/10Stronger for Flaxseed
Skin irritation1/103/10Stronger for Flaxseed

Evidence scores (1–10) are computed from the tier of each cited source. “Comparable” means the two scores are within one point. Follow a score to its detailed sources.

Key Constituents

Crocin and crocetin[1]

Water-soluble carotenoid glycosides responsible for saffron's deep golden-red colour and much of its antioxidant and mood-related activity.

CrocinCrocetin
Safranal[1]

The principal volatile aromatic compound, giving saffron its characteristic scent and contributing to its sedative and antidepressant activity.

Safranal
Picrocrocin

The main bitter-tasting glycoside of the stigma, a precursor of safranal.

Picrocrocin
Lignans (secoisolariciresinol diglucoside, SDG)[3]

Flax is the richest dietary source of SDG-type lignans, converted by gut bacteria to the mammalian lignans enterodiol and enterolactone; studied for antioxidant and hormone-modulating activity.

Lignans
Alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3 fatty acid)[2, 5]

The dominant fatty acid of the seed oil (~50-55% of total oil), a plant-based omega-3 studied for cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory effects.

Mucilage polysaccharides[5]

Concentrated in the seed coat; gives flaxseed its demulcent, laxative, bulk-forming action.

MucilagePolysaccharides
Cyanogenic glycosides (linamarin, linustatin)[7]

Present at low levels; cooking/roasting reduces them to negligible amounts in normal food use - a theoretical concern only at high raw intakes.

Glycosides

Pharmacological Actions

Anti-inflammatory[7, 9, 14, 15, 16]
Anticancer (preclinical)[10, 11, 14, 15, 16]
Antidiabetic (blood-sugar lowering)[14, 15, 16]
Antioxidant[8, 9, 14, 15, 16]
Neuroprotective / cognition support[8, 12, 14, 15, 16]
Sedative / sleep support[2, 4, 5, 6, 13, 14, 15, 16]
Anti-inflammatory[2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 12, 14, 15, 16, 18]
Anticancer (preclinical)[7]
Antioxidant[3, 5, 7, 12, 14, 15, 16, 18]
Digestive aid[2, 4, 12, 14, 15, 16, 18]

Traditional & Indicated Uses

Arthritis / joint pain[14, 15, 16]Traditional · 1/10

inferred from anti-inflammatory action

Evidence: 1
Label: Arthritis / joint pain
Blood sugar / diabetes support[14, 15, 16]Traditional · 1/10

inferred from antidiabetic action

Evidence: 1
Label: Blood sugar / diabetes support
Cancer (anticancer research)[10, 11]Good · 8/10

inferred from anticancer action

Evidence: 8
Label: Cancer (anticancer research)
Cognitive function[14, 15, 16]Traditional · 1/10

inferred from neuroprotective action

Evidence: 1
Label: Cognitive function
Inflammation (general)[14, 15, 16]Traditional · 1/10

inferred from anti-inflammatory action

Evidence: 1
Label: Inflammation (general)
Insomnia / sleeplessness[14, 15, 16]Traditional · 1/10

inferred from sedative action

Evidence: 1
Label: Insomnia / sleeplessness
Memory[14, 15, 16]Traditional · 1/10

inferred from neuroprotective action

Evidence: 1
Label: Memory
Menstrual cramps[14, 15, 16]Traditional · 1/10
Evidence: 1
Label: Menstrual cramps
Metabolic support[14, 15, 16]Traditional · 1/10

inferred from antidiabetic action

Evidence: 1
Label: Metabolic support
Skin irritation[14, 15, 16]Traditional · 1/10

inferred from anti-inflammatory action

Evidence: 1
Label: Skin irritation
Arthritis / joint pain[12, 14, 15, 16, 18]Limited · 3/10

inferred from anti-inflammatory action

Evidence: 3
Label: Arthritis / joint pain
Bloating[12, 14, 15, 16, 18]Limited · 3/10

inferred from digestive action

Evidence: 3
Label: Bloating
Cancer (anticancer research)[7]Good · 7/10

inferred from anticancer action

Evidence: 7
Label: Cancer (anticancer research)
Cardiovascular / heart health[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18]Moderate · 6/10
Evidence: 6
Label: Cardiovascular / heart health
Indigestion[12, 14, 15, 16, 18]Limited · 3/10

inferred from digestive action

Evidence: 3
Label: Indigestion
Inflammation (general)[12, 14, 15, 16, 18]Limited · 3/10

inferred from anti-inflammatory action

Evidence: 3
Label: Inflammation (general)
Metabolic support[12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18]Moderate · 6/10
Evidence: 6
Label: Metabolic support
Skin irritation[12, 14, 15, 16, 18]Limited · 3/10

inferred from anti-inflammatory action

Evidence: 3
Label: Skin irritation

Safety, Cautions & Contraindications

Safety note[14, 15, 16]Caution

Culinary use is entirely safe. At very high doses (5g+), saffron can be toxic — but such doses far exceed culinary or therapeutic amounts. Avoid medicinal doses during pregnancy (uterine stimulant). May interact with antidepressants. High quality saffron is often adulterated; verify source.

Safety note[14, 15, 16, 17]Caution

Duke (2002) rates saffron as ++ and provides a critical safety warning: abortifacient activity has clinical support (score 2), meaning that medicinal doses can induce abortion — saffron is strictly contraindicated in pregnancy at doses above culinary amounts. The plant also shows antidepressant, antioxidant, and antitumor activities at the experimental level (score 1). Dose (culinary): 0.5 g stigmas as flavoring; medicinal doses above 5 g are considered potentially toxic. Duke notes that saffron stigmas contain crocin and safranal, which are responsible for its antidepressant and antioxidant properties (Duke, 2002).

Safety note[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18]Info

Flaxseeds are safe for most people at recommended food amounts (1–2 tablespoons ground/day). They must be ground or milled to be bioavailable — whole seeds largely pass through the gut undigested. High fibre content may cause bloating, flatulence, and loose stools, especially if fibre intake is increased rapidly without adequate hydration. Flaxseeds contain cyanogenic glycosides (linamarin, linustatin); cooking or roasting reduces these to negligible levels in normal food amounts. Raw seeds in very large quantities are a theoretical concern, but typical use is safe (EFSA, 2017).

Safety note[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18]Caution

Medication interactions: Flaxseed may reduce absorption of oral medications if taken simultaneously — space flaxseed supplementation 1–2 hours from medications. Omega-3 ALA and lignans may mildly enhance anticoagulant/antiplatelet effects; use caution with blood thinners. Some sources suggest caution with hormone-sensitive conditions due to phytoestrogen (lignan) content, though dietary amounts are unlikely to pose risk (Adolphe et al., 2010).

Safety note[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18]Caution

Pregnancy: Food amounts are generally considered safe; high-dose supplements should be discussed with a clinician due to limited safety data.

Safety note[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20]Info

Duke (2002) rates flaxseed as +++ with clinical evidence (score 2) for antiatherogenic, hypocholesterolemic, laxative, lipolytic (fat-dissolving), and demulcent activities. Flaxseed's omega-3 fatty acids (ALA) and lignans are associated with reduced cardiovascular risk. Commission E approves flaxseed as a laxative and for mucilaginous protection of inflamed gastrointestinal mucosa. Dose: 1–2 tablespoons ground seed with ample water, twice daily. Whole seeds should be chewed or ground for full medicinal effect. Cyanogenic glycosides are present but at safe levels in normal dietary amounts (Duke, 2002).

External Ids

Gbif: 2747430
Powo: urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:436688-1
Wikidata: Q15041677
Gbif: 2873861
Wikidata: Q45108

Botanical Description

Small, cormous perennial with narrow, grass-like, dark green leaves emerging with or just after the flowers. Each flower is a delicate lilac-purple, six-petalled bloom with three golden-yellow anthers and a single style dividing into three long, deep-red, thread-like stigmas - the saffron of commerce. The plant is a sterile triploid that never sets seed and is propagated entirely by division of its underground corms.

Height: 10-20 cm
Habit: Small, cormous, autumn-flowering perennial
Leaves: Narrow, grass-like, dark green, emerging with or just after the flowers
Flowers: Lilac-purple, six-petalled, with three golden anthers and three long deep-red stigma threads
Stem: Very short; flowers arise almost directly from the corm
Root: Underground corm with fibrous roots
Fruit: Sterile triploid; does not set seed, propagated by corm division
Flowering Period: Autumn (October-November)

Erect annual herb, slender and often branched near the top, growing 30-80 (up to 100) cm tall from a fine taproot. Leaves are alternate, sessile, narrowly lanceolate to linear, blue-green and entire-margined. Flowers are pale blue (occasionally white or pink), five-petalled and borne on slender stalks in loose terminal cymes. The fruit is a small globular capsule ('boll') that splits into ten compartments, each containing one flattened, glossy, red-brown seed.[5]

Height: 30-80 (up to 100) cm
Habit: Erect, slender annual herb
Leaves: Alternate, sessile, narrowly lanceolate to linear, blue-green, entire
Flowers: Pale blue (occasionally white or pink), five-petalled, in loose terminal cymes
Stem: Slender, erect, often branched above
Root: Fine taproot
Fruit: Globular capsule ('boll') splitting into ten compartments, each with one flattened glossy red-brown seed
Flowering Period: June-August

Habitat

Believed to have originated in Greece or Crete and spread through cultivation across the Mediterranean, Middle East and Asia (notably Iran, Kashmir and Spain); grown in sunny, well-drained fields with hot, dry summers and cool, wet autumns/winters.

Native to the Mediterranean region and the Fertile Crescent, cultivated since prehistory for fibre and oil and now grown worldwide in temperate regions with well-drained, fertile soils and a cool, moist growing season; occasionally found as a naturalised escape on waste and cultivated ground.[5]

Harvesting

The flowers are hand-picked at dawn as they open, and the three red stigma threads are immediately hand-separated from each flower and dried - an extremely labour-intensive process (many thousands of flowers are needed for a small amount of dried saffron), which accounts for saffron's high cost.

Parts: Flower
Season: Autumn, at flowering, harvested at dawn

Grown as an annual crop, seed is harvested once the capsules ('bolls') have dried and turned brown, typically in late summer, by cutting or combining the whole plant and threshing out the seed. Whole seed stores well; it should only be ground shortly before use, since the oil in ground seed oxidises and turns rancid quickly.[2]

Parts: Seed
Season: Late summer, once bolls have dried

Traditional Uses

Saffron has a long Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and South Asian tradition as both a prized culinary spice/dye and a medicinal herb, used for mood support, digestive complaints and as a mild emmenagogue; its traditional mood-lifting reputation is now supported by clinical trials comparing standardised saffron extract to conventional antidepressants for mild-to-moderate depression.[1]

Flaxseed has a long history of traditional use as a bulk-forming laxative and demulcent for constipation and irritated gut mucosa, and as a poultice for boils and inflamed skin. Modern interest centres on its lignan (secoisolariciresinol diglucoside) and alpha-linolenic acid content, studied for cardiovascular, metabolic and hormone-related outcomes.[2, 4, 5]

Preparations

Standardised extract[1]

Stigma extract standardised to safranal/crocin content, taken as capsules; the form used in most clinical mood and metabolic studies.

Ground seed ('flax meal')[2]

Whole seed freshly ground (milled) and taken with plenty of liquid, or stirred into food; grinding is needed to make the oil and lignans bioavailable, as whole seeds largely pass through the gut undigested.

Flaxseed oil[5]

Cold-pressed oil taken as a concentrated source of alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3); lacks the fibre and lignan content of the whole ground seed.

Dosage

Standardised extract[1]

Clinical trials for mood support commonly use around 30 mg of standardised saffron extract daily (in divided doses); culinary use is typically well under 1 g. High medicinal doses (5 g or more) are considered potentially toxic and should be avoided. Educational reference only, not a prescription.

Ground seed[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18]

Traditional guidance and Duke (2002) suggest 1-2 tablespoons of ground seed with ample water, once or twice daily. Educational reference only, not a prescription.

Flaxseed oil[19]

A randomised placebo-controlled trial titrated flax oil capsules (550 mg alpha-linolenic acid per 1 g of oil) to 12 capsules per day, i.e. up to roughly 12 g of oil daily, over 16 weeks - broadly matching the 1-2 tablespoons (about 10-15 mL) daily often cited for omega-3 intake. That trial was in children and adolescents with bipolar disorder and its primary outcomes were null; it is cited here only as a source for an administered human dose of the oil, not as evidence of benefit. Note the EU herbal monograph on Lini semen covers the SEED, not the oil. Educational reference only, not a prescription.

References

REF-0788, REF-0789, REF-0790, REF-2001, REF-2002, REF-2003, REF-2004, REF-2005, REF-2006, REF-2007, REF-2008, REF-2009, REF-2010
REF-2216, REF-2217, REF-2218, REF-2219, REF-2220, REF-2221, REF-2222, REF-2223, REF-2224, REF-2225, REF-0288

Drug Class Interactions

Safety note[18, 19]Caution
Drug Class: antidepressants-serotonergic
Mechanism: Saffron has antidepressant, serotonin-related activity (a meta-analysis of randomised trials found saffron more effective than placebo and comparable to standard antidepressants for mild-to-moderate depression; a trial safely combined low-dose saffron with SSRIs); because both raise serotonergic activity, combining saffron with antidepressants may add to serotonergic effects, so watch for side effects such as agitation or restlessness.
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-03
Safety note[20, 21]Caution
Drug Class: sedatives-cns-depressants
Mechanism: Saffron is traditionally used as a calming, sedative herb; taken with sedatives, sleeping tablets or other central-nervous-system depressants (including alcohol) it may add to drowsiness and slowed reactions.
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-03
Safety note[22]Caution
Drug Class: antidiabetics
Mechanism: Saffron lowers fasting blood glucose and HbA1c in trials in people with diabetes; combined with diabetes medicines it may add to blood-sugar lowering, so monitor blood sugar.
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-03

Not documented

Lookalikes Review

Outcome: has-lookalikes
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-07
Outcome: none-known
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-07

Dangerous Lookalikes

Safety note[23, 24, 25, 26]Fatal
Dangerous Plant: colchicum-autumnale
Confused Part: The whole autumn flower (a leafless lilac-purple, crocus-shaped bloom) and its style/stigma threads that can be taken for saffron, plus the corm; in spring the strap-shaped leaves are also confused with other greens.
Confusion Context: Autumn crocus / meadow saffron (Colchicum autumnale, family Colchicaceae) flowers in autumn with a leafless lilac-purple crocus-like flower that closely mimics true saffron crocus (Crocus sativus, Iridaceae) and is even nicknamed 'meadow saffron'. It contains colchicine, a cell toxin with no readily available antidote; ingestion causes deceptively delayed (hours later) multi-organ failure and can be fatal. A Swiss poison-centre review lists it among the few plants that can kill (Kupper & Reichert 2009), and a documented case describes severe multi-organ injury after it was eaten in error (Gabrscek et al. 2004). University extensions warn it should definitely not be used in place of saffron, because eating any part of it can be fatal.
Distinguishing Features: STAMEN COUNT (decisive): true saffron crocus has exactly THREE stamens per flower; autumn crocus (Colchicum) has SIX. Two independent university extensions confirm three-versus-six as the hard, countable difference., SAFFRON THREADS: saffron crocus has one style splitting into three long, deep-RED branched stigmas (the saffron threads). Colchicum has three separate pale styles with yellow anthers and does not produce the long red saffron threads., FLOWER ARCHITECTURE: saffron crocus is in the iris family (Iridaceae; 3 stamens, 1 style); Colchicum is in Colchicaceae (6 stamens, 3 styles) - a fundamentally different flower.
Key Test: Count the stamens inside the open flower: exactly THREE (with three long deep-red saffron threads) = true saffron crocus. SIX stamens (pale styles, yellow anthers, no red threads) = autumn crocus (Colchicum) - do NOT eat or use as saffron; it can be fatal. If in any doubt, do not harvest.
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-07

Not documented

References & Sources

  1. Shafiee, A., Jafarabady, K., Seighali, N., Mohammadi, I. et al (2025) 'Effect of Saffron Versus Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) in Treatment of Depression and Anxiety: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials', Nutrition Reviews, 83(3), pp. e751-e761. doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuae076 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.1093/nutrit/nuae076
  2. Lopresti, A.L. and Drummond, P.D (2014) 'Saffron (Crocus sativus) for depression: a systematic review of clinical studies and examination of underlying antidepressant mechanisms of action', Human Psychopharmacology, 29(6), pp. 517-527. doi:10.1002/hup.2434 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.1002/hup.2434
  3. Chen, Z., Gu, J., Lin, S., Xu, Z. et al (2022) 'Saffron essential oil ameliorates CUMS-induced depression-like behavior in mice via the MAPK-CREB1-BDNF signaling pathway', Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 300, pp. 115719. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2022.115719 Preclinical
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2022.115719
  4. Hausenblas, H.A., Saha, D., Dubyak, P.J. and Anton, S.D (2013) 'Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and major depressive disorder: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials', Journal of Integrative Medicine, 11(6), pp. 377-383. doi:10.3736/jintegrmed2013056 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.3736/jintegrmed2013056
  5. Kell, G., Rao, A., Beccaria, G., Clayton, P., Inarejos-Garcia, A.M. and Prodanov, M (2017) 'affron a novel saffron extract (Crocus sativus L.) improves mood in healthy adults over 4 weeks in a double-blind, parallel, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial', Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 33, pp. 58-64. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2017.06.001 Randomized trial
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2017.06.001
  6. Baziar, S., Aqamolaei, A., Khadem, E., Mortazavi, S.H., Naderi, S., Sahebolzamani, E., Mortezaei, A., Jalilevand, S., Mohammadi, M., Shahmirzadi, M. and Akhondzadeh, S (2019) 'Crocus sativus L. Versus Methylphenidate in Treatment of Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Randomized, Double-Blind Pilot Study', Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology, 29(3), pp. 205-212. doi:10.1089/cap.2018.0146 Randomized trial
    https://doi.org/10.1089/cap.2018.0146
  7. Moshiri, M., Vahabzadeh, M. and Hosseinzadeh, H (2014) 'Clinical Applications of Saffron (Crocus sativus) and its Constituents: A Review', Drug Research, 65(6), pp. 287-295. doi:10.1055/s-0034-1375681 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0034-1375681
  8. Finley, J.W. and Gao, S (2017) 'A Perspective on Crocus sativus L. (Saffron) Constituent Crocin: A Potent Water-Soluble Antioxidant and Potential Therapy for Alzheimer's Disease', Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 65(5), pp. 1005-1020. doi:10.1021/acs.jafc.6b04398 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jafc.6b04398
  9. Boskabady, M.H. and Farkhondeh, T (2016) 'Antiinflammatory, Antioxidant, and Immunomodulatory Effects of Crocus sativus L. and its Main Constituents', Phytotherapy Research, 30(7), pp. 1072-1094. doi:10.1002/ptr.5622 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.5622
  10. Bhandari, P.R (2015) 'Crocus sativus L. (saffron) for cancer chemoprevention: A mini review', Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, 5(2), pp. 81-87. doi:10.1016/j.jtcme.2014.10.009 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtcme.2014.10.009
  11. Khorasanchi, Z., Shafiee, M., Kermanshahi, F., Khazaei, M., Ryzhikov, M., Parizadeh, M.R., Kermanshahi, B., Ferns, G.A., Avan, A. and Hassanian, S.M (2018) 'Crocus sativus a natural food coloring and flavoring has potent anti-tumor properties', Phytomedicine, 43, pp. 21-27. doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2018.03.041 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2018.03.041
  12. El Midaoui, A., Ghzaiel, I., Vervandier-Fasseur, D., Ksila, M., Zarrouk, A., Nury, T., Khallouki, F., El Hessni, A., Ibrahimi, S.O., Latruffe, N., Couture, R., Kharoubi, O., Brahmi, F., Hammami, S., Masmoudi-Kouki, O., Hammami, M., Ghrairi, T., Vejux, A. and Lizard, G (2022) 'Saffron (Crocus sativus L.): A Source of Nutrients for Health and for the Treatment of Neuropsychiatric and Age-Related Diseases', Nutrients, 14(3), pp. 597. doi:10.3390/nu14030597 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14030597
  13. Pitsikas, N (2021) 'Crocus sativus L. Extracts and Its Constituents Crocins and Safranal; Potential Candidates for Schizophrenia Treatment?', Molecules, 26(5), pp. 1237. doi:10.3390/molecules26051237 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26051237
  14. Akhondzadeh, S. et al (2005) 'Comparison of Crocus sativus L'. Traditional / reference
    https://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=Comparison%20of%20Crocus%20sativus%20L
  15. Hosseinzadeh, H. and Nassiri-Asl, M (2013) 'Avicenna', 27(4), pp. 475--483. Traditional / reference
    https://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=Avicenna
  16. Moshiri, E. et al (2006) 'Crocus sativus L', pp. 607--611. Traditional / reference
    https://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=Crocus%20sativus%20L
  17. Duke, J.A (2002) 'Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, Second Edition'. Traditional / reference
    https://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=Handbook%20of%20Medicinal%20Herbs%2C%20Second%20Edition
  18. Talaei, A., Hassanpour Moghadam, M., Sajadi Tabassi, S.A. and Mohajeri, S.A (2015) 'Crocin, the main active saffron constituent, as an adjunctive treatment in major depressive disorder: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, pilot clinical trial', Journal of Affective Disorders, 174, pp. 51-56. doi:10.1016/j.jad.2014.11.035 Randomized trial
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2014.11.035
  19. Toth, B., Hegyi, P., Lantos, T., Szakacs, Z., Keremi, B., Varga, G., Tenk, J., Petervari, E., Balasko, M., Rumbus, Z., Rakonczay, Z., Balint, E.R., Kiss, T. and Csupor, D (2019) 'The efficacy of saffron in the treatment of mild to moderate depression: a meta-analysis', Planta Medica, 85(1), pp. 24-31. doi:10.1055/a-0660-9565 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.1055/a-0660-9565
  20. Ghasemzadeh Rahbardar, M. and Hosseinzadeh, H (2024) 'Therapeutic potential of hypnotic herbal medicines: A comprehensive review', Phytotherapy Research, 38(6), pp. 3037-3059. doi:10.1002/ptr.8201 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.8201
  21. Block, K.I., Gyllenhaal, C. and Mead, M.N (2004) 'Safety and efficacy of herbal sedatives in cancer care', Integrative Cancer Therapies, 3(2), pp. 128-148. doi:10.1177/1534735404265003 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.1177/1534735404265003
  22. Liu, J., Yang, Y. and Qi, Y (2024) 'Effect of saffron supplementation on the glycemic outcomes in diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis', Frontiers in Nutrition, 11, pp. 1349006. doi:10.3389/fnut.2024.1349006 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2024.1349006
  23. Kupper, J. and Reichert, C (2009) 'Intoxications with plants', Therapeutische Umschau, 66(5), pp. 343-8. doi:10.1024/0040-5930.66.5.343 Clinical study
    https://doi.org/10.1024/0040-5930.66.5.343
  24. Gabrscek, L. and Lesnicar, G. and Krivec, B. and Voga, G. and Sibanc, B. and Blatnik, J. and Jagodic, B (2004) 'Accidental poisoning with autumn crocus', Journal of Toxicology. Clinical Toxicology, 42(1), pp. 85-8. doi:10.1081/clt-120028750 Clinical study
    https://doi.org/10.1081/clt-120028750
  25. University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension 'Autumn Crocus, Colchicum spp'. Available at: https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/autumn-crocus-colchicum-spp/ Traditional / reference
    https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/autumn-crocus-colchicum-spp/
  26. Ohio State University Extension (Buckeye Yard and Garden onLine) 'Crocus By Other Names'. Available at: https://bygl.osu.edu/node/1458 Traditional / reference
    https://bygl.osu.edu/node/1458
  1. Picur, B., Cebrat, M., Zabrocki, J. and Siemion, I.Z (2006) 'Cyclopeptides of Linum usitatissimum', Journal of Peptide Science, 12(9), pp. 569-574. doi:10.1002/psc.779 Preclinical
    https://doi.org/10.1002/psc.779
  2. Basch, E., Bent, S., Collins, J., Dacey, C., Hammerness, P., Harrison, M., Smith, M., Szapary, P., Ulbricht, C., Vora, M. and Weissner, W (2007) 'Flax and flaxseed oil (Linum usitatissimum): a review by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration', Journal of the Society for Integrative Oncology, 5(3), pp. 92-105. doi:10.2310/7200.2007.005 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.2310/7200.2007.005
  3. Chhillar, H., Chopra, P. and Ashfaq, M.A (2020) 'Lignans from linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) and its allied species: retrospect, introspect and prospect', Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 61(16), pp. 2719-2741. doi:10.1080/10408398.2020.1784840 Meta-analysis / review
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  4. Ansari, R., Zarshenas, M.M. and Dadbakhsh, A.H (2019) 'A review on pharmacological and clinical aspects of Linum usitatissimum L', Current Drug Discovery Technologies, 16(2), pp. 148-158. doi:10.2174/1570163815666180521101136 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.2174/1570163815666180521101136
  5. Akter, Y., Junaid, M., Afrose, S.S., Nahrin, A., Alam, M.S., Sharmin, T., Akter, R. and Hosen, S.M.Z (2021) 'A comprehensive review on Linum usitatissimum medicinal plant: its phytochemistry, pharmacology, and ethnomedicinal uses', Mini Reviews in Medicinal Chemistry, 21(18), pp. 2801-2834. doi:10.2174/1389557521666210203153436 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.2174/1389557521666210203153436
  6. Musazadeh, V., Abolghasemian, M., Kavyani, Z., Moridpour, A.H., Nazari, A. and Faghfouri, A.H (2024) 'The effects of flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) supplementation on anthropometric indices: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials', Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 84, pp. 103066. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2024.103066 Meta-analysis / review
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  7. Mueed, A., Shibli, S., Jahangir, M., Jabbar, S. and Deng, Z (2022) 'A comprehensive review of flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.): health-affecting compounds, mechanism of toxicity, detoxification, anticancer and potential risk', Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 63(32), pp. 11081-11104. doi:10.1080/10408398.2022.2092718 Meta-analysis / review
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  8. Kaithwas, G., Mukherjee, A., Chaurasia, A.K. and Majumdar, D.K (2011) 'Anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic activities of Linum usitatissimum L. (flaxseed/linseed) fixed oil', Indian Journal of Experimental Biology, 49(12), pp. 932-938. Preclinical
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  9. Rafieian-Kopaei, M., Shakiba, A., Sedighi, M. and Bahmani, M (2017) 'The analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity of Linum usitatissimum in Balb/c mice', Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine, 22(4), pp. 892-896. doi:10.1177/2156587217717416 Preclinical
    https://doi.org/10.1177/2156587217717416
  10. Sirotkin, A.V (2023) 'Influence of flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) on female reproduction', Planta Medica, 89(6), pp. 608-615. doi:10.1055/a-2013-2966 Meta-analysis / review
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  11. Thompson, L.U., Chen, J.M., Li, T., Strasser-Weippl, K. and Goss, P.E (2006) 'Dietary flaxseed alters tumor biological markers in postmenopausal breast cancer', 11(10), pp. 3828--3835. doi:10.1158/1078-0432.CCR-04-2326 Randomized trial
    https://doi.org/10.1158/1078-0432.CCR-04-2326
  12. Adolphe, J.L., Whiting, S.J., Juurlink, B.H.J., Thorpe, L.U. and Alcorn, J (2010) 'Health effects with consumption of the flax lignan secoisolariciresinol diglucoside', 103(7), pp. 929--938. doi:10.1017/S0007114509992753 Clinical study
    https://doi.org/10.1017/S0007114509992753
  13. Caligiuri, S.P.B., Edel, A.L., Aliani, M. and Pierce, G.N (2014) 'Flaxseed for hypertension: implications for improved cardiovascular risk', 16(12), pp. 499. doi:10.1007/s11906-014-0499-8 Randomized trial
    https://doi.org/10.1007/s11906-014-0499-8
  14. European Food Safety Authority (2017) 'Safety of cyanogenic glycosides from flaxseed consumed as part of a usual diet', 15(11). doi:10.2903/j.efsa.2017.5026 Preclinical
    https://doi.org/10.2903/j.efsa.2017.5026
  15. Harris, W.S (2012) 'Stearidonic acid as a surrogate for eicosapentaenoic acid in cardiovascular risk reduction: update and recommendation', 70(10), pp. 565--574. Traditional / reference
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  16. Latvijas valsts mežzinātnes institūts (n.d.) 'Linsēkla Latvijā'. Available at: https://www.silava.lv Traditional / reference
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  17. Pan, A., Sun, J., Chen, Y. et al (2009) 'Effects of a flaxseed-derived lignan supplement in type 2 diabetic patients: a randomized, double-blind, cross-over trial', 4(11). doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0007654 Randomized trial
    https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0007654
  18. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (n.d.) 'Linum usitatissimum L'. Available at: https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:http://ipni.org:names:381313-1 Traditional / reference
    https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:http://ipni.org:names:381313-1
  19. Gracious, B.L., Chirieac, M.C., Costescu, S., Finucane, T.L., Youngstrom, E.A. and Hibbeln, J.R (2010) 'Randomized, placebo-controlled trial of flax oil in pediatric bipolar disorder', Bipolar Disorders, 12(2), pp. 142-154. doi:10.1111/j.1399-5618.2010.00799.x Randomized trial
    https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1399-5618.2010.00799.x
  20. Duke, J.A (2002) 'Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, Second Edition'. Traditional / reference
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Generated automatically from the Omnia Sana plant database and its cited sources. For educational purposes only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified practitioner before using medicinal plants.