Detection of botanical adulterants in saffron powder Saffron is a unique spice obtained by drying stigmas of saffron flowers (Crocus sativus L ) Due to its high price, economically motivated adulteration occurs relatively often The presented study aimed to develop an effective strategy for the detection of the following potential botanical adulterants used for a saffron substitution or dilution: safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L ), calendula