Colchicum (Suranjan-e-Shireen)

Colchicum / Suranjan-e-Shireen (سورنجان شیریں) also known as Colchicum Autumnale, is a herb with very narrow leaves, broadening towards the tip, brownish fleshy underground stems, large yellow flowers and fruits with recurved tips.

The chief constituent of colchicum is the alkaloid, colchicines, which occurs in the form of yellow flakes, crystals or as whitish yellow amorphous powder. Its odor resembles the hay when dampened and warmed.

The active principle colchicines contained in the corms is beneficial in relieving pain and inflammation of gout. Clinical experiments with colchicum in small doses over a long period have shown success in about 60 percent of patients. The seeds, chiefly the rind also contain colchicines, and may be used in the treatment of gouts in the same manner as the corms.

Colchicum is useful in the treatment of rheumatic swelling. A paste made with saffron and egg can be applied beneficially to rheumatic and other swelling.

Dried and powdered root of the plant is useful in the healing of wounds. It should be sprinkled to the affected area.