Saffron. Harvested stigmas from saffron flowers (Crocus sativa), seen with their packaging. The bright red stigmas are part of the female reproductive structure of the flower (although Crocus sativa is sterile and must be propagated through corms). The stigmas are used to colour and flavour food. Saffron may also be taken as a herbal remedy to treat indigestion, rheumatism and colds. Historically, it was used to make dyes for paints and fabrics. Saffron is one of the most expensive herbs because of the time and labour involved in picking the flowers and separating the stigmas. The Navelli Plain, in the Aquila Province of Italy, is a traditional saffron-growing area.