Saffron, or crocus (Latin Crоcus) is a perennial herbaceous tuberous plant of the iris family. This spice plant is extremely popular, it is called the king of spices, and the cost of saffron in the market is quite high. Turmeric, also called Indian saffron, is often used as a cheap substitute.
Saffron came from India and Asia Minor; also distributed in the Mediterranean regions, in Central Europe, North Africa, in all Asian countries up to China. He loves open sunny spaces and air-permeable soil.
Chemical composition
The composition of saffron is very rich in various valuable components, the main of which is an essential oil called saffronol. Saffron essential oil is especially valuable because it is cytotoxic to cancerous tumors.
Also, the chemical composition of saffron contains copper, calcium, potassium, manganese, iron, zinc, selenium, magnesium, a large amount of B vitamins – niacin, folic acid, riboflavin. Also, saffron, whose composition is already rich in useful components, contains ascorbic acid and vitamin A.
Useful Properties
Since ancient times, saffron has been used not only as a spice, but also as a medicinal plant. Saffron is just a storehouse of unique properties, it is extremely valuable for health. How is saffron good for you? It has a diaphoretic, spasmodic, antibacterial effect. Saffron is also useful because it is a powerful antioxidant, prevents the destruction of cells by free radicals and promotes their regeneration. Saffron whose useful properties are difficult to overestimate, helps to increase the number of red blood cells, improves the functioning of the heart muscle, normalizes blood pressure, and qualitatively improves blood composition. It is a powerful aphrodisiac. Good for vision.
Treatment for women
Saffron has long been used to preserve female beauty. Masks made of saffron powder mixed with water make the skin smooth and velvety, relieve all sorts of inflammation, and give the skin a tan. This is facilitated by the rich color of saffron – orange-reddish. However, do not abuse them, and also keep them for a long time, otherwise the skin may turn bright yellow. The beneficial properties of saffron are known as a powerful antioxidant; it restores the beauty and youthfulness of the skin, replenishes its vitamin and mineral reserves, and improves the complexion.
Противопоказания
Saffron should not be eaten during pregnancy – its tonic properties can cause increased uterine tone.
Cooking application
Saffron is used in food as a spice. It can be added to almost any dish – meat, rice, vegetables, soups. Saffron with poultry meat is especially good; it is added to traditional Indian rice and chicken dishes.
