Saffron..... I am sure you've heard of it. It's a spice; most commonly used in Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Indian dishes. Saffron is used both for its bright orange-yellow color and for its strong, intense flavor and aroma. It is the most precious and most expensive spice in the world.
The Saffron filaments, or threads, are actually the dried stigmas of the saffron flower, "Crocus Sativus Linneaus". Each flower contains only three stigmas. These threads must be picked from each flower by hand, and more than 75,000 of these flowers are needed to produce just one pound of Saffron filaments, making it the world's most precious spice. But, because of saffron's strong coloring power and intense flavor, it is used very sparingly. In other words, a tiny pinch goes a very long way.
Aside from the amazing flavor and fragrance that Saffron lends to food; it also has incredible health benefits.
Here are just a few benefits and ways Saffron might be helpful to you:
Digestion: Saffron is helpful in the improvement of digestion and appetite, because it helps in improving circulation to the organs of digestion. It coats the membranes of stomach and colon which help in soothing gastrointestinal colic and acidity.
Kidney and liver problems: This spice is found to be extremely beneficial for the treatment of kidney, bladder and liver disorders. Saffron is considered as a blood purifier.
Athritis: It helps in relieving inflammation of arthritis. Saffron also provides relief from joint pains. It is very helpful for athletes as it eases fatigue and muscle inflammation by helping the tissues to get rid of lactic acid which gets built up after strenuous exercise.
Insomnia: It is said that saffron is also a mild sedative which can be used for insomnia and even treat depression. Taking a pinch of saffron with milk before bed helps in sleep disorders like insomnia.
Eye problems: Saffron improves eye and vision health. In a recent research study, every participant who took saffron had vision improvements. Notably, saffron has been reported to significantly helping vision in the instance of cataracts.
Gum Soreness: Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, Saffron can reduce gum soreness and inflammation in the mouth. Just massage saffron on the gums.
Saffron is also beneficial in the treatment of asthma, menstrual discomfort, atherosclerosis, depression, whooping cough, and many other health problems.
It helps to lower the levels of bad cholesterol and triglycerides.
Saffron can be applied topically as a paste to relieve dryness and other skin conditions.
Saffron applied as paste to the scalp can also help prevent baldness.
In Ayurveda, Saffron is used to manage circumstances such as low sperm count, low sperm motility, premature ejaculation etc in men.
Saffron is also one of nature's best kept beauty secrets.
Saffron kills bacteria, making it ideal for treating acne. Also, because of its anti-bacterial and exfoliating properties it helps in creating brighter and clearer complexion.
To improve your complexion and get glowing skin; you can try this method:
Ingredients:
Saffron: 3-4 strands
Sugar: A pinch
Plain Bread: 1 small piece
Milk: 1 teaspoon
Water: 1 teaspoon
Olive Oil or Coconut Oil: 2-3 drops
Method:
Take a small bowl and pour water in it. Add saffron strands to the water and leave it overnight. By morning the water will turn in to yellowish colour. Add milk and coconut oil (or olive oil) to the water. Now take a small piece of bread and dip it in the mixture and wipe your face. If you notice some bread piece stick to your face then don’t worry just rub your face with your hands and hey will get off easily. Keep this mixture on your face for 15 minutes and then you can rinse it off with normal water.
This mask helps to:
Reduce dark circles.
Refresh and smooth the skin.
Soothe nerves and relieve mental tension.
Reduce fatigue lines and delay wrinkles.
Stimulate blood circulation, resulting in an enhanced glow.
It is 100% natural and safe method.
How to Choose Saffron:
Because Saffron is so expensive, there are many adulterated and fake products being dyed to imitate it. If you are not sure your Saffron is pure, immerse a bit of the product in warm water or milk. If the liquid colors immediately, then the saffron is fake. Pure saffron must soak in either warm water or milk for at least 10 to 15 minutes before its deep red-gold color and the saffron aroma begin to develop.
Saffron... buy it, use it, cook with it.
Here's a very easy and delicious recipe for Spanish Saffron Rice.
Be sure to consult your physician before using any spices or herbs for medicinal and healing purposes. Pregnant women should not use excessive amounts of Saffron or take it orally. Using it as a spice in cooking is perfectly fine any situation. Saffron lends an exotic flair to almost any dish, so get creative and give it a try.
