Crocus or Saffron - The stigmas of Crocus sativus, a plant cultivated in Europe, contains a volatile oil and coloring matter. So-called American Saffron is not Crocus but the flowers of Cathamus tinctorius. True Saffron is expensive, as it requires about 60,000 flowers to furnish one pound of stigmas. Crocus is a stimulant aromatic, having some antispasmodic and anodyne (analgesic) qualities. In Europe it is use as a stimulant and a emenagogues (maintain or restore healthy menstrual discharge), but in America it was only used as a coloring agent.