Saffron, Crocus Sativus. "Saffron tea" is a domestic remedy of little real value, but used to promote efflorescence in the exanthemata:. The American saffron, or Carthamus tinctorius, is really much more active. It is laxative in large doses. The homeopaths formerly used crocus in chorea and hysterical affections and dvsmenorrhea with black, tenacious discharges. Some of them still use 5 I. doses @ in this connection.