Saffron Facts and Nutrition Details:

Introduction

Saffron is one of the most expensive spices. Saffron is cultivated from beautiful purple, saffron crocus flowers. To produce 500 grams of saffron, thousands of flowers bloom are required and only the dried red stigma of the flowers are used as saffron spice.

Saffron Facts and Origin:

Iran is first in the world production of saffron, with more than 95 percent of the world produce. Other cultivators of saffron are Spain, India, Azerbaijan, and Italy.

Iran is the largest saffron producer in the world, and exports the spice to more than 40 countries over the world.

Saffron Flavor, Aroma and color:

Saffron has a very unique flavor, mainly it is used for food coloring and its distinct flavor. Saffron is also used for its very calming aroma.

Color

Saffron is the red color stigma of crocus flowers. It’s used as a food colorant. Saffron is widely used as a natural food color in Indian food. It gives a nice golden hue to the food.

Aroma

Saffron has very calming and distinct oriental accords that are used in perfume making. Traditionally, Saffron was mixed with Agarwood oil to make perfume oils.

Flavor

Saffron has a complex flavor, which can be described as sweet and floral. Pungent or honey-like.

Saffron Uses location wise:

Saffron is widely used in Iranian, Indian,  European, and Arab cuisines. Saffron is also used as a confectioner . Saffron is used in  many dishes like zarash pulav of Iran,  the saffron risotto of Italy,  the saffron paella of Spain, the saffron bouillabaisse of France, the zafrani biryani of India.

Saffron health benefits:

Saffron is helpful in treating many diseases like depression and Alzheimer’s disease, preventing or treating cancer, reducing cholesterol and other cardiovascular benefits, weight loss, hair growth and improving overall skin.

Research suggests that saffron increases brain levels of serotonin, a chemical known to regulate mood which helps in treating depression.

Nutrition research suggests taking saffron daily, curb appetite and reduce cravings which help in weight management.

Saffron has antioxidants which helps reduce cholesterol and maintain healthy arteries.

Saffron has shown potential benefits in preventing and treating cancer.

Saffron contains antioxidants which help repair hair follicles and promote healthy hair growth.

Saffron has been used to treat and  maintain overall skin. Saffron is used for reducing pigmentation, brown spots and blemishes.

Various studies and research suggests that saffron is very beneficial for treating Alzheimer’s patients.