Do you know the earliest trace of saffron was found in Greece? However, the origin of the original Kashmiri saffron is still unknown. Though Iran is the largest exporter of saffron, Kashmiri saffron is the most sought-after spice across the world. The best-grade Kashmiri saffron is high-priced, especially due to its color, flavor, and aroma.

Often referred to as golden spice, natural Kashmiri saffron is not only used for cooking purposes but also in Ayurvedic medicines because of its therapeutic qualities. Since the early ages, Kashmiri saffron has been extensively consumed for its potential health benefits. Additionally, it is used in makeup and skincare products because of its superior skin brightening and anti-ageing properties.

Considering the widespread demand for Kashmiri saffron, the production is low. Do not be surprised if we say 1kg of saffron is obtained from 170,000 Crocus Sativus flowers. Can you imagine the amount of labor? Well, let’s learn more about this wonder spice!

Kashmiri Saffron: Origin

The term ‘saffron’ has originated from the Arabic word ‘Zafaran’. It means yellow. Original Kashmiri saffron disburses yellow color when soaked in water or milk or rubbed in the palms. The bright purple Crocus Sativus flower has red stigmas. Each flower contains three stigmas. The best quality authentic Kashmiri saffron is the uppermost part of the stigma.

Kashmiri saffron is cultivated extensively in the Pampore region of Kashmir valleys. The entire cultivation and harvesting process is laborious because it does not use any machine or equipment. Being handpicked and sundried, saffron extraction is time-consuming. It makes saffron the costliest spice!

The vibrant color and musky aroma of Kashmiri saffron are due to the presence of crocin and safranal. Coming to the sweet-bitter taste is primarily due to picrocrocin. Nonetheless, apart from the color and flavor, organic Kashmiri saffron is enriched with vital nutrients promoting improved physical and cognitive health. Vitamin C, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, and vitamin B6 are the primary nutrients found in pure Kashmiri saffron.

Health Benefits of Kashmiri Saffron

No wonder Kashmiri saffron has been used for ages to treat numerous health disorders. It has the following properties:

• Antidepressant– Forget about antidepressant pills and their side effects because Kashmiri saffron can be your natural cure for anxiety and depression. Saffron tea or saffron milk can instantly elevate your mood, making you feel calm and relaxed.
• Antioxidant– Free radicals cause extensive damage to our skin, including wrinkles, dark spots, sunburns, discoloration, and cancer. To protect your cells from these free radicals, an antioxidant like Kashmiri saffron is highly effective. It has potent antioxidants like crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal, which can improve skin health.
• Aphrodisiac– Treating sexual disorders like erectile dysfunction, arousal, and lubrication can be easier with saffron intake. It can improve intimate life, especially the ones taking antidepressants.
• Treat PMS– You can always buy Kashmiri saffron online to treat premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Backpain, stomachache, headache, low spirit, and lack of energy- get rid of PMS naturally.
• Prevent Cardiac Clots– Clots in the heart are the fundamental cause of heart attacks. They occur due to high cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar. If you can curtail the chance of clot formation, the risk of heart attack is minimized. Try Kashmiri saffron for a change! Include a trace amount of saffron in your diet and boost your cardiac health.
• Weight Management– If you are in the race to shed weight, Kashmiri saffron can come to the rescue. It reduces food cravings or appetite, which naturally helps you to manage your weight.

Thus, Kashmiri saffron is indeed a wonder spice with innumerable benefits and uses when complying with the highest grade!