The Effect of Storage Condition of Crocus Sativus L. Stigma on Crocin Content

Saffron is a perennial herb with a spherical tuber onion from the Iris family and without any
stem. Its products include stigma and styles. In traditional medicine, saffron is considered as herbal ecstasy. Moreover, saffron is one of the most important plants in Khorasan Province and extensively exported to international countries all over the world. Different compounds with various properties can be found in saffron, one of which is named Crocin. Crocin is a carotenoid chemical compound that is primarily responsible for the color of saffron. Saffron can positively play a significant role against a wide range of tumors in mice, human leukemia cells, and other cancer models. In this regard, it improves blood circulation, treatment of cardiovascular diseases, treatment of bruises and strokes, hepatitis, the increase of macrophage alienation and immunity. Sensitivity to this extremely rare substance has been reported. Sensitivity to this substance has been rarely reported. Crocin is produced as the result of carotenoid-type oxidation called protocrossin, a colored substance which is turned into crocin through hydrolysis. Crocin can control tumors either by destroying cancer cells or delaying the onset of tumor carcinogenesis. Crocin is also regarded as anti-apoplectic. According to the obtained results of the current study on the effect of storage condition of Crocus sativus L. stigma on crocin content, the best condition to kept stigmata is darkness. Examination of the effects of duration (20 months), light environment, dark surroundings, and storage in refrigerator showed that the samples of saffron stigma stored in cold had lower levels of crocin than the samples in light and dark environments. Therefore, it is suggested to saffron producers or buyers who tend to buy large quantities of saffron, to keep saffron in places away from light and heat in order to preserve this important compound during stigma separation and store sales.