Saffron, The Red Gold
Saffron is a valuable spice that has a unique aroma, and it is useful in treating some diseases. It is also known as red gold in the world. It grows in the southeast of Asia, southern Spain, other parts of southern Europe, and the US. However, Iran stands out from others in producing saffron. Saffron is usually harvested by hand. Due to the difficulty of harvesting, it is one of the most expensive plants in the world.
Saffron cultivation in Iran goes back to more than 3,000 years ago. Did you know that in Achaemenid dynasty saffron was used for decorating bread and flavoring foods? According to Ferdinand Yutsi (German linguist), Darius, the king of Persia was applying a fragrant oil to the skin, consisting of a mixture of sunflower oil, milk, palm wine, and saffron. Historical documents point to the fact that Iranians have long been fond of saffron, so that they celebrate the feasts and gatherings, such as weddings and festivals, or welcoming elders and pilgrims with saffron drinks and food. In addition, in ancient times, saffron ink was used to write the titles of commands and letters of kings, as well as writing the titles and headings of books, illustration, and illumination of manuscripts.
The best time to plant saffron is in May and June, and as the weather becomes warmer and the planting time is delayed, saffron’s bulb will be damaged. Saffron harvest time is in October and mid-November. Sometimes, the harvest will continue until late November. Surely the time of planting and harvesting of saffron and how to clean it has a great impact on the price and quality of the product. Saffron that is dried and cleared after quick harvesting is more suitable for export.
Saffron Properties
1. Properties of Saffron to enhance mental health
Stimulating the mind and brain is just one of the health benefits of saffron. Various studies have shown that stigmas of saffron and its petals have similar effects on mood, and they actually act like antidepressants, so the properties of saffron petals are unique. Since ancient times, people have used saffron to soothe their minds and to sleep better because of its sedative properties. Saffron also enhances the power of learning and memory.
2. Properties of saffron for the skin
The antioxidants in saffron have anti-aging properties. The softness, flexibility, and radiance are just some of the properties of saffron for the skin. Saffron can also whiten the skin, prevent skin rash, and helps to remove wound marks and dark spots. Saffron contains vitamin B12 and can help to treat the dry lips.
3. Properties of saffron for hair
Saffron helps to prevent hair loss by strengthening the strands of hair from root to the tip. In addition to stimulating hair, saffron can accelerate its growth.
4. Benefits of saffron for the respiratory system
Saffron can cure common colds and cough. It is capable of acting as an anti-inflammatory and stimulant compound. These benefits of saffron can be fruitful against asthma.
5. Properties of saffron for heart health
Saffron is a rich source of potassium which is an important element in maintaining heart health. Potassium dilates and enlarges arteries and blood vessels, thereby lowering blood pressure. Potassium in saffron also prevents infarct and apoplexy.
Saffron Herbal Tea
How to Make Saffron Tea? You can add a little saffron to the black tea that you brew, which will give you a new taste in the tea.
But to make saffron herbal tea: First, you need to put in a quarter of a teaspoon of saffron in a teapot, then add about a tablespoon of honey and pour some boiling water over it and stir with a spoon till well mixed. Then pour more boiling water and put the teapot on indirect heat for 20 minutes. You can also use sugar or rock candy instead of honey and increase or decrease the amount according to your taste. If you want to have a completely different saffron herbal tea, add 2 teaspoons of rose water to make a 100 percent relaxing drink.
Properties of Saffron Herbal Tea
• Saffron herbal tea has an appetizing effect and can improve alimentary tract function and it also aids digestion.
• It has antidepressant properties because it is refreshing.
• It helps to promote digestion and can prevent flatulence.
• This drink facilitates blood circulation as well as lowering blood pressure.
• Saffron herbal tea is diuretic and cleans the kidneys and bladder.
• It is also an anti-cancer due to its antioxidant properties.
It has long been said, “Measure is medicine” (in Persian: اندازه نگه دار که اندازه نکوست)! This proverb applies to the consumption of saffron too. Despite all the benefits, consuming too much saffron can cause some problems for the user. It is usually recommended not to consume more than 2 grams of saffron during the day.
Comments