As one of the top 14 herbs of the Bible, experimentation is underway when it comes to exploring the new potentials for this versatile spice, a spice that’s been shown to boost the heart, mind and more for centuries.

Saffron Benefits

1. Boosts Cardiovascular Health

Recent studies have shown great promise of saffron constituents in the promotion of a healthy cardiovascular system. Heat shock proteins (HSPs) 27, 60 and 70 in particular were significantly linked to metabolic syndromeand atherosclerosis so researchers wanted to investigate the effect of this herb on antibody titers to HSP in patients with metabolic syndrome.

The levels of heat shock proteins 27, 60, 65 and 70 were measured in a study published in the Journal of Complementary & Integrative Medicine during supplementation, with 105 participants diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. The participants were randomly divided into two groups and were given either 100 milligrams a day of a placebo or saffron. After three months, the antibodies to heat shock proteins 27 and 70 were reduced greatly in the saffron group. (1)

2. Treats Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects more than 150 million males throughout the world. In traditional medicine, saffron was used as an aphrodisiac, with the constituent crocin credited for its aphrodisiac activity.

In a pilot study to evaluate this traditional use, 20 male participants with ED were evaluated for 10 days. Each morning, the participants took a tablet containing 200 milligrams of this spice. The participants underwent the nocturnal penile tumescence test and the international index of erectile function questionnaire (IIEF-15) at the start of supplementation and at the end of 10 days.

After the 10 days of supplementation, there was a statistically significant improvement in tip tumescence and rigidity as well as base tumescence and rigidity. The ILEF-15 total scores were significantly higher in after participants were supplemented with this herb.  There was a positive effect on sexual function with increased duration and number of erectile events seen in men with erectile dysfunction only after taking it for 10 days. (2) Thus, this traditional spice also potentially works as a natural remedy for impotence.

3. Possesses Potential Anticancer Effects

Cancer is considered to be the second leading cause of death in the world. Saffron as a medicinal plant is known for its anticancer capabilities, making it a potential natural cancer treatment.

In a randomized, double-blind clinical trial published in the Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine, the effects of saffron on response to treatment in patients suffering from liver metastasis were evaluated. Thirteen participants suffering from liver metastases were included in this study and then divided into two different groups. Both groups received chemotherapy regimen. Participants in group 1 were treated with saffron capsule (50 milligrams, twice daily) during chemotherapy periods while group 2 received a placebo.

A sum of the longest diameter was calculated and compared for all lesions in IV contrast CT scan before and after the treatment. Out of the 13 who participated, six quit and seven continued until the end. In the group treated with saffron, two participants showed partial and complete response (50 percent) whereas in placebo group, no response was seen. Also, two deaths in the placebo and one in saffron group occurred. This research suggests that saffron might be useful in patients suffering from liver metastasis and other cancers. (3)

4. Alleviates Symptoms of PMS

Premenstrual syndromes (PMS) are among the most common health problems reported by women, affecting 2o percent to 40 percent of women of reproductive age. Saffron is considered an excellent antispasmodic so researchers at the Tehran University of Medical Sciences’ Vali Asr Reproductive Health Research Center assessed whether it could alleviate symptoms of PMS. Women aged 20—45 years with regular menstrual cycles who experienced PMS symptoms for at least six months were eligible for the study. Women were randomly assigned to either group A, who receive 15 milligrams of capsule saffron twice a day in the morning and evening or group B, who received a capsule placebo twice a day for a two menstrual cycles.

The women were evaluated for PMS symptoms using a Premenstrual Daily Symptoms (PDS) questionnaire and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D). Results showed a significant improvement in both tests (PDS and HAM-D) for the women in the saffron group compared to their pre-treatment symptoms and also showed a significant improvement in symptoms compared to the placebo group. (4)

5. Promotes Satiety and Weight loss

In a Malaysian study, researchers wanted to investigate the satiety property of saffron. Women participants were given a capsule of Satiereal twice daily or an inactive placebo with no restrictions in dietary intake. After two months, the participants using the saffron extract reported a decrease in snacking and lost more weight than the control group. (5)

The researchers concluded that this herb can help treat obesity by curbing the appetite, promoting weight loss.

6. Treats Anxiety and Depression

Depression is a serious disorder in today’s society with estimates of lifetime prevalence as high as 21 percent of the general population in some developed countries. As a therapeutic plant, saffron was used for depression in Persian traditional medicine, and researchers wanted to assess the efficacy this herb in the treatment of mild to moderate depression in a six-week clinical trial.

Thirty adult outpatients who met the clinical interview for depression participated in the trial. Participants had a baseline Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression score of at least 18. In this double-blind, single-center trial, participants were randomly assigned to receive a capsule of saffron (30 milligrams a day) in group 1 or a capsule of the antidepressant imipramine (100 milligrams per day) in group 2 for a six-week study. Saffronat this dose was found to be effective in a similar manner to imipramine in the treatment of mild to moderate depression. (6)

In another study published in the Journal of Complementary & Integrative Medicine, 60 adult participants with anxiety and depression were randomized to receive a 50 milligram saffron capsule or a placebo capsule twice daily for 12 weeks. The questionnaires Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) were used at baseline, six and 12 weeks after starting medication. Fifty-four participants completed the trial. As a result, the supplementation of saffron had a significant effect on the BDI and BAI scores in comparison to placebo during 12 weeks. (7)

Saffron Nutrition

One tablespoon of saffron (two grams) contains about: (8)

• 6 calories
• 1.3 grams carbohydrates
• 0.2 gram protein
• 0.1 gram fat
• 0.1 gram fiber
• 0.6 milligram manganese (28 percent DV)
• 1.6 milligrams vitamin C (3 percent DV)
• 5.3 milligrams magnesium (1 percent DV)
• 0.2 milligram iron (1 percent DV)
• 5 milligrams phosphorus (1 percent DV)
• 34.5 milligrams potassium (1 percent DV)

How to Use and Cook Saffron

The edible part of saffron is the stigma, a long, thin, golden stalk within the flower. The main European-producing suppliers are from the La Mancha district of Spain. Asian producers are in China (called safalan), Kashmir (kesar) and Iran (zafran).

Throughout history, this herb has been available as ground or whole stigmas (threads), and it’s best to go with the threads for high-quality taste. There is isn’t any substitute for saffron, and because of its price, many attempts are made to pass off imitations. Pay caution to the tasteless, cheap, similar-colored spice called safflower.

Saffron is highly flavorful and aromatic, with a spicy, pungent and slightly bitter taste. The threads are used in many rice dishes as well as with vegetables, meats, seafood, poultry and in baked goods. They add a sharp, almost medicinal flavor and a beautiful yellow-orange color to the dish.

This spice is readily available in most specialty markets, and because of its high value, it may be stocked in a secured area. So if you don’t see any on the shelves, ask the store manager. Saffron is usually sold bulk in wooden boxes or to be packaged in foil in order to protect it from harsh conditions such as light and air.

Saffron Recipes

This delicious herb can be used in so many different recipes. For instance, it’s a staple in one of my favorite Daniel Fast recipes, harira, and of course is integral to saffron rice. Here are a few other recipes to try:

• Enjoy a warm bowl of Saffron Ginger Carrot Soup.
• Cook up a plate of Saffron Meyer Lemon Roasted Chicken.
• Satisfy your sweet tooth with Persian Saffron Pudding.

Saffron History and Interesting Facts

Crocus sativus L., commonly known as saffron, is the raw material for one of the most expensive spices in the world, and it’s been used for centuries. Egyptian healers used it to treat gastrointestinal ailments, and in Roman times, it was used to promote wound healing and relieve upper respiratory complaints.

In more recent times, it’s been used as an anti-inflammatory and anticancer agent and has also been investigated in the treatment of cognitive defects. Other uses of saffron in traditional medicine include as an abortifacient and in the treatment of spasms, fever, colds, bronchitis and insomnia. In folk and Ayurvedic medicine, it was used as an expectorant, sedative, anti-asthma, adaptogen, emmenagogue and in various opioid preparations for pain relief during the 16th—19th centuries. (9)

This exotic spice is native to Southern Europe and today is cultivated in many countries, mainly Iran, Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, and the Indian state of Kashmir and Jammu. The dried stigmas hold great importance in the production of cosmetics, pharmaceutics and textile-dye industries, along with cooking.

People would grow saffron all over Europe, but the massively high labor costs of harvesting it and the low yield per plant kept the supply well below the demand — yet the supply was sufficient enough that many people could possess small quantities of the spice for special occasions. These occasions included St. Lucia’s Day in Sweden and Christmas festivities of the Provence. It takes 100,000 hand-picked flowers to produce one kilo of dried spice. (10)

Despite the difficulty in growing it in Sweden, it was suggested by writers on Swedish festivals that this amazing spice has long been added to Lucia Day buns. Many cultures adopted its use as a medicinal or dietary substance, even if most can rarely use it.

Ancient Greeks expressed the infinite wealth of the gods by describing Zeus having a bed of saffron. Saffron was named “Blood of Hercules” and used as a protective amulet and ritual incense. Baked saffron cakes were served by the Phoenicians in honor of the fertility Goddess Ashtoreth and the moon. In ancient Mediterranean cultures, the spice was associated with strength, fertility, psychic sensitivity and sexual potency. (11) It was a popular healing and cleansing ritual to add it to love sachets and potions as well. (12)

This herb was mentioned in the Old Testament in Songs of Solomon, along with myrrh, aloe, calamus and cinnamon, as one of the most precious spices. It was only to be harvested by women of high status, such as priestesses, who wore garments dyed with saffron. (13)

Egyptians would mix it with honey, and Romans sought saffron as an aphrodisiac, sprinkling their marriage beds with it. Throughout its history saffron has also been used in body washes, as a narcotic, in potpourris, in cosmetics, as an antidepressant and, of course as a spice — both coloring and flavoring all manner of traditional dishes. (14)

Potential Side Effects of Saffron

Combining saffron with other herbs or supplements with hypotensive capabilities might increase the risk of hypotension. Some of these herbs and supplements include andrographis, casein peptides, cat’s claw, fish oil, CoQ10, L-arginine, stinging nettle, lycium and theanine.

Consuming five grams can lead to saffron poisoning, and symptoms include:

• yellow pigmentation of the skin, sclera and mucous membranes (mimicking icterus)
• vertigo
• vomiting
• bloody diarrhea
• hematuria
• bleeding from the lips, nose, uterus or eyelids
• numbness
• uremic collapse
• thrombocytopenic purpura leading to severe necrosis of the nose

It’s also reported that consuming 10 grams of saffron can induce abortion, with a lethal dose being 12—20 grams. Allergy-induced asthma and rhinoconjunctivitis have been reported, and anaphylactic reactions can occur within minutes of eating food preparations with saffron. Saffron is not to be used during pregnancy either.

Final Thoughts on Saffron

• Saffron is considered to be excellent for alleviating symptoms of PMS, depression, anxiety, and promote weight loss and enhance satiety.
• Saffron is commercially available at specialty stores and online as a powder or in the form of threads.
• It should not be consumed during pregnancy, should always be taken in small doses as directed and should not for an extended period of time.

The post What Is Saffron? Saffron Benefits & Recipes to Try appeared first on OrigIran.

What Is Saffron?

Saffron is a popular spice that can be acquired from a flower commonly called the saffron crocus. With the scientific name Crocus sativus, the stigmas of this plant can be dried and processed into a spice, which is actually the most valuable spice by weight. These “threads” as they are called, are typically reddish orange, the same color as the spice, and are carefully removed from flowers by hand. This herb is highly desired because of its ability to season and color food, as well as its inherent health benefits. The unique organic composition of saffron makes it a powerful addition to your diet, as it contains more than 150 volatile compounds, including carotenoids, safranal, crocin, antioxidants, and other biochemicals, as well as minerals and vitamins that are essential to human health.

The most common form of saffron is in the dried or powdered form, but you can also get saffron supplements at certain herbal food stores. Only a small amount of the spice is necessary to have an effect, and the maximum that should be consumed in a day is between 0.5 grams and 1 gram of this valuable spice. Saffron can be applied topically for massage, used in broths, hot drinks, or as pills. You can find saffron at most organic health stores and grocery stores, and the pill supplements can be found in herbalist and nutritional locations.

Health Benefits Of Saffron

Let’s take a closer look at this fascinating herb to uncover the many health benefits of saffron.

Boosts Immunity

Although people often think of spices as nothing but food flavoring tools, they still contain high concentrations of certain important nutrients, including vitamin C. Ascorbic acid is important for human health, as it stimulates the immune system’s production of white blood cells, the body’s first line of defense against illness, and also is crucial to the production of collagen, which is necessary for cellular production in the body and contributes to wound healing, muscle growth, blood vessel repair, and tissue production.

Increases Circulation

Saffron can function as an effective energy booster and can increase your metabolism by increasing your blood circulation. The high concentration of iron means that saffron increases your RBC, which thereby stimulates circulation and oxygenation of organ systems and the body’s extremities. This improves efficiency and functionality of our tissues and organ systems for healthier metabolic activity and prevents the symptoms of anemia.

Protects Heart Health

Improving the health of the heart seems to be one of the top goals in human health today, and one simple way to do this is to increase your potassium intake. Potassium acts as a vasodilator, effectively lowering the stress and pressure on blood vessels and arteries, allowing blood pressure to decrease and relieving strain on the cardiovascular system. This can prevent things like atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes from occurring.

Controls Diabetes

The significant levels of manganese can help the body optimize its blood sugar levels. Diabetes is one of the most dangerous and widespread conditions in our world today, affecting millions of people globally. By regulating your blood sugar, insulin, and glucose levels, you can effectively prevent the onset of type II diabetes or manage the symptoms if you already suffer from this affliction.

Relieves Anxiety

Saffron has been known to relieve mild depression and improve mood in those who regularly consume it. The many active compounds in saffron have some effect on the endocrine system and can stimulate the release of beneficial hormones that keep us happy and healthy. For women, this same effect has also been known to act as an aphrodisiac. It has been hailed as a natural antidepressant by numerous research studies and organizations.

Improves Bone Strength

Some of the minerals and organic compounds in saffron have been linked to optimized nutrient uptake, particularly of calcium. By maximizing the amount of calcium that our body can absorb from food, we have a better chance of improving bone mineral density and preventing the onset of conditions like osteoporosis and other degenerative age-related diseases.

Improves Nerve Function

The vitamin B family is one that is often overlooked in human health, but it plays a major role in nerve function throughout the body. More specifically, the high content of vitamin B6 found in saffron spice can help our nervous system in running smoothly and prevent some of the deadly and dangerous disorders that arise from poor nervous system function.

Analgesic Qualities

Pain relief is always a valuable asset to an herb or natural remedy, and the volatile compound safranal in saffron acts as a sedative for many patients. This sedative action can help to relieve pain, reduce anxiety and stress, improve sleep patterns, and generally soothe the mind and body, which is always a good thing!

Prevents Cancer

With more than 100 different compounds acting within saffron’s complex form, antioxidants were bound to make an appearance. There are dozens of antioxidant compounds found in saffron, many of which seek out and neutralizefree radicals, the dangerous byproducts of cellular metabolism that can cause healthy cells to mutate or die. This boosts the general health of the immune system, but more specifically, can prevent cancer from developing or spreading in the body.

Reduces Stomach Disorders

One of the oldest and most well-known uses of saffron is for upset stomachs and excess flatulence. The sedative and anti-inflammatory nature of saffron helps to calm the stomach and reduce inflammation, which eases things like constipation, bloating, cramping, and serious conditions like gastric ulcers.

Treats Inflammation

As a topical tool used in massage, saffron oil and creams derived from the flower’s compounds can eliminate aches and pains throughout the body, while also relieving pain and discomfort. For people suffering from sports injuries, arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory conditions, this is a wonderful remedy. Also, for the topical healing of bruisesand wounds, the quick-acting antioxidant compounds can help to speed the healing process.

Word of Caution: Consuming saffron in high doses can be potentially dangerous, as the high concentration of active ingredients can have a range of effects on the body. However, in small doses (such as in meals or in pill supplement form), saffron is not known to have any common side effects or allergenic properties. Some side effects that have been reported include dry mouth, dizziness, nausea, anxiety, fatigue, and appetite changes, but these are rare. As always, consult a medical professional or trained herbalist before adding a powerful new element to your herbal regimen.

The post Amazing Benefits Of Saffron appeared first on OrigIran.

The spice’s botanical name is crocus sativus. It’s also sometimes called safran, azafran or zafferano, depending on the region. 

Saffron Availability

Saffron is readily available in most large grocery stores and specialty markets. Due to its value, it may be stocked in a locked or secured area. If you don’t see any on the shelf, ask the manager. You can also order it online (origiran.com buy saffron from IRAN!) .Most recipes call for very little saffron, so you’ll often find it sold in packets of 1/16 of a teaspoon or so, and in threads equaling about 1/4 gram or 1/2 a teaspoon.

What Does Saffron Taste Like?

Saffron imparts a somewhat earthy taste that’s been described as pungent or even fruity. The exact flavor eludes description, which only lends to the saffron’s mystique.

Forms of Saffron

Saffron is available in ground form as well as in threads called whole stigmas. Threads are thin and red or orange-red. Your best bet is to go with the threads. They retain their flavor longer, and you can also be sure that you’ve purchased pure saffron — there’s nothing else mixed in with the powder. Ground saffron is easily adulterated with fillers and imitations. It’s not as strong. It tends to lose its flavor.

Saffron Selection

Always choose threads or powder from a reputable distributor. Saffron should be packaged in foil to protect it from air and light. Bulk saffron is often sold in small wooden boxes.

Saffron Storage

Saffron will hold its maximum flavor for up to six months if you store it in an airtight container and keep it in a cool, dark place. Like other herbs and spices, it’s sensitive to light, so wrap the packet in foil to protect it even more. It won’t spoil, but it will lose more and more of its flavor as it ages.

The Price of Saffron

Saffron is literally the most expensive spice in the world. It’s estimated that 14,000 stigmas produce only one ounce of saffron threads. These threads can cost up to $50 per 1/4-ounce due to the labor-intensive process of harvesting them, which is still done by hand just as it was thousands of years ago. Luckily, a little bit goes a long way, so you can buy enough saffron for a number of meals for under $10, but if you find it available at bargain basement prices, it’s probably not the real deal.

Substitutions

Turmeric can be substituted for saffron in many recipes, but you’ll lose a great deal of flavor. Paprika can be used to add a similar color, but again, you’ll lose the remarkable flavor of saffron.

The post Saffron : facts , selection & storage appeared first on OrigIran.

The effect of anything shows its worth. Some people or some things are known to change the equations and saffron is one of these things. In fact, anything which saffron is added to it can be defined before and after adding saffron. Saffron transforms smell, color and taste. Saffron even raises the respect of your product. When you give your audience something with saffron, you have indeed respected and appreciated them. Perhaps the best word that can be selected for Saffron is power. Below, you can read some articles about saffron in international journals. 

WHY IS SAFFRON EXPENSIVE?

Saffron is one of the most expensive things. Which plant is sold in grams? A very low number can be seen in this category. Saffron is valuable as much as it is difficult to obtain. About 110/000 to 170/000 crocus flowers are required in order to obtain one kilogram of dried saffron! Apart from the fact that curing process, soil type and harvest time and the importance of speed increase the value of this magical spice. Saffron has become one of the most expensive spices in the world due to high demand and limited production.

WHY IRANIAN SAFFRON?

Iran can be considered as the cradle of the world’s saffron. Almost 90 percent of the world’s saffron is produced in Iran. Even many of saffron that are distributed with label of other countries are from Iran. Saffron in Iran goes back 3000 years and still has its own power. Saffron is known as the red gold of desert because its origin is Iran’s deserts. Even Unlike the fact that many believe the word saffron originates from Arabic name, Iran is the origin of its name and most of the Arabic sources have reference to Iranian sources.

WHICH ARE THE TYPES OF SAFFRON?

Saffron is not all of the same quality and strength. Strength is related to several factors including the amount of style picked along with the red stigma. Age of the saffron is also a factor. More style included means the saffron is less strong gram for gram, because the colour and flavour are concentrated in the red stigmata. Saffron from Iran, Spain and Kashmir is classified into various grades according to the relative amounts of red stigma and yellow styles it contains.

Grades of Iranian saffron are: “sargol” (red stigma tips only, strongest grade), “pushal” or “pushali” (red stigmata plus some yellow style, lower strength), “bunch” saffron (red stigmata plus large amount of yellow style, presented in a tiny bundle like a miniature wheatsheaf) and “konge” (yellow style only, claimed to have aroma but with very little, if any, colouring potential).

Grades of Spanish saffron are “coupé” (the strongest grade, like Iranian sargol), “mancha” (like Iranian pushal), and in order of further decreasing strength “rio“, “standard” and “sierra” saffron. The word “mancha” in the Spanish classification can have two meanings: a general grade of saffron or a very high quality Spanish-grown saffron from a specific geographical origin. Real Spanish-grown La Mancha saffron has PDO protected status and this is displayed on the product packaging. Spanish growers fought hard for Protected Status because they felt that imports of Iranian saffron re-packaged in Spain and sold as “Spanish Mancha saffron” were undermining the genuine La Mancha brand.

Countries producing less saffron do not have specialised words for different grades and may only produce one grade. Artisan producers in Europe and New Zealand have offset their higher labour charges for saffron harvesting by targeting quality, only offering extremely high grade saffron.

In addition to descriptions based on how the saffron is picked, saffron may be categorised under the international standard ISO 3632 after laboratory measurement of crocin (responsible for saffron’s colour), picrocrocin (taste), and safranal (fragrance or aroma) content.However, often there is no clear grading information on the product packaging and little of the saffron readily available in UK is labelled with ISO category. This lack of information makes it hard for customers to make informed choices when comparing prices and buying saffron.

Under ISO 3632, determination of non-stigma content (“floral waste content”) and other extraneous matter such as inorganic material (“ash”) are also key. Grading standards are set by the International Organization for Standardization, a federation of national standards bodies. ISO 3632 deals exclusively with saffron and establishes three categories: III (poorest quality), II, and I (finest quality). Formerly there was also category IV, which was below category III. Samples are assigned categories by gauging the spice’s crocin and picrocrocin content, revealed by measurements of specific spectrophotometric absorbance. Safranal is treated slightly differently and rather than there being threshold levels for each category, samples must give a reading of 20–50 for all categories.

These data are measured through spectrophotometry reports at certified testing laboratories worldwide. Higher absorbances imply greater levels of crocin, picrocrocin and safranal, and thus a greater colouring potential and therefore strength per gram. The absorbance reading of crocin is known as the “colouring strength” of that saffron. Saffron’s colouring strength can range from lower than 80 (for all category IV saffron) up to 200 or greater (for category I). The world’s finest samples (the selected, most red-maroon, tips of stigmata picked from the finest flowers) receive colouring strengths in excess of 250, making such saffron over three times more powerful than category IV saffron. Market prices for saffron types follow directly from these ISO categories. Sargol and coupé saffron would typically fall into ISO 3632 category I. Pushal and mancha would probably be assigned to category II. On many saffron packaging labels, neither the ISO 3632 category nor the colouring strength (the measurement of crocin content) is displayed.

However, many growers, traders, and consumers reject such lab test numbers. Some people prefer a more holistic method of sampling batches of threads for taste, aroma, pliability, and other traits in a fashion similar to that practised by experienced wine tasters.[34] However, ISO 3632 grade and colouring strength information allow consumers to make instant comparisons between the quality of different saffron brands, without needing to purchase and sample the saffron. In particular, consumers can work out value for money based on price per unit of colouring strength rather than price per gram, given the wide possible range of colouring strengths that different kinds of saffron can have.

Despite attempts at quality control and standardisation, an extensive history of saffron adulteration, particularly among the cheapest grades, continues into modern times. Adulteration was first documented in Europe’s Middle Ages, when those found selling adulterated saffron were executed under the Safranschou code.Typical methods include mixing in extraneous substances like beetroot, pomegranate fibres, red-dyed silk fibres, or the saffron crocus’s tasteless and odourless yellow stamens. Other methods included dousing saffron fibres with viscid substances like honey or vegetable oil to increase their weight. However, powdered saffron is more prone to adulteration, with turmeric, paprika, and other powders used as diluting fillers. Adulteration can also consist of selling mislabelled mixes of different saffron grades. Thus, in India, high-grade Kashmiri saffron is often sold and mixed with cheaper Iranian imports (like Pushal) ; these mixes are then marketed as pure Kashmiri saffron, a development that has cost Kashmiri growers much of their income.

HOW CHEATING HAPPENED IN CASE OF SAFFRON?

Saffron is an expensive and popular product so there is no doubt that many profiteers are trying to gain more and start cheating. Given that there are too many methods of cheating some of which are dangerous. It is better to review common ways of cheating together and then discuss ways to differ original Saffron.
Coloring, making heavy, mixing with stigma corn and adding oil are among the most common methods of producing fake saffron. One of the ways for cheating in saffron is mixing its stigmas with a kind of fat, sugar, salt or honey and increasing its weight.
The most dangerous method of cheating in saffron is the use of artificial colors. This matter can be detected in the laboratory because low coloring of saffron would be indicative of this cheating. These artificial colors are extremely dangerous to human health and in fact, colored flowers sold by other countries as saffron mostly in form of powder is the same dangerous artificial color.
The most natural method of cheating in saffron is use of natural colors of this plant to color other white parts of saffron and mixing it with this product. This method is the most respectful method of cheating! Which has unfortunately become very common. Fraudsters and suppliers can even swear on the purity of their saffron since they have used nothing but saffron.

HOW CAN WE DETECT ORIGINAL SAFFRON?

 Detection of original saffron is sometimes very difficult and even experts cannot do it and cheating is revealed only by laboratory tests. However, detection of original saffron form twigs of saffron is the easiest way because twigs of saffron have three branches and their upper part is like clarion which become narrower as it becomes lower but if the Saffron is powdered, the only way of detection is use of laboratory devices. Other methods are as follows:
If twigs of saffron are very bright, it should be sent to the laboratory.
Corn awn is straight but the top of saffron is curved
Pieces of saffron will turn purple or orange in exposure to Butane gas which is due to its potassium but yellow color is created in case of fake saffron (this method is mostly done in laboratories)
If we put saffron strands in brown paper and press it, there should be no grease stains and if there is, saffron is fake
Color of saffron strands are insoluble in gasoline which means color of gasoline should not change when we put saffron strands in it.
If we place a few saffron strands in a cup of boiling water, it should not turn white after about 5 minutes and if it does, saffron is fake
If we place saffron in boiling water, its color should turn yellow and not red or dark orange
Color, odor and taste of saffron is a crucial test for experts. Original taste of Saffron is slightly bitter but pleasant and it has slightly spicy odor.

Facts about keeping and buying Saffron

Saffron has a great value and power so it is not bad to know some facts about it.
Do not buy saffron in high quantity for domestic use because saffron flavor becomes weak over time so always buy as much as you need. Packages up to 5 grams can be a decent amount for ordinary families
Store Saffron metal containers with glass because plastic containers affect the smell and taste of saffron and absorb them.
Crush Saffron only when you want to use for a short time because process of reducing odor and taste increases in crushed Saffron.

The post saffron ( Red Gold ) appeared first on OrigIran.

Saffron is one of the most precious and sought-after spices in the world, revered for its vibrant color, unique flavor, and numerous health benefits. This “red gold” has been cultivated and used in Iran and other regions for centuries, playing a significant role in their culinary and cultural traditions. However, as demand for saffron grows, so does the prevalence of fraud and adulteration, making it crucial for consumers to be well-informed when purchasing this luxurious spice. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about buying saffron to ensure you’re getting the best quality possible.

Understanding Saffron: Why Freshness Matters

Saffron is harvested in the autumn months, typically from late October to early December. This is when the spice is at its freshest, making these months the ideal time to purchase saffron. Fresh saffron is highly aromatic, with a bright red color and potent flavor. While saffron remains fresh for several months if stored properly, its quality can deteriorate over time. Therefore, it’s best to buy saffron in quantities that you can use within a year, to preserve its full flavor and aroma.

Tip: To maintain the freshness of your saffron, store it in a cool, dark place, preferably in an airtight glass or metal container. This will help preserve its essential oils and prevent the spice from losing its potency.

Spotting Adulterated Saffron: How to Avoid Being Cheated

The high value of saffron has unfortunately led to various forms of adulteration. Some sellers may mix saffron with other substances or artificially dye saffron threads to make them appear more vibrant and appealing. To avoid falling victim to these scams, it’s important to be aware of some key signs of genuine saffron:

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   Avoid Powdered Saffron: While convenient, powdered saffron is more susceptible to adulteration. It’s easier to mix with other ingredients, making it difficult to determine its authenticity. Always opt for whole saffron threads when possible.

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   The Water Test: Genuine saffron will release its color slowly when immersed in hot water, turning the water a golden-yellow hue. If the water turns red or if the color spreads too quickly, it may indicate the use of artificial dyes.

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   The Paper Test: Place a few saffron threads on a piece of white paper and press them with your finger. If the saffron leaves a yellow stain, it’s likely genuine. However, if it leaves a red or orange mark, it may have been artificially colored.

   
   

Where to Buy Authentic Saffron: Your Best Options

When purchasing saffron, the source matters just as much as the product itself. If you’re in Iran, you have access to some of the world’s most renowned saffron markets. Cities like Tehran, Mashhad, Nishapur, Torbat Heydarieh, and Ghaen are famous for their high-quality saffron. These markets offer a wide variety of saffron, often at more competitive prices than international markets.

For those outside Iran, buying saffron online is a convenient and reliable option. However, it’s crucial to choose a reputable supplier. Origiran, for instance, specializes in providing top-quality Iranian saffron directly to consumers around the world. With just a few clicks, you can access premium saffron that has been carefully sourced and packaged to ensure maximum freshness.

Why Choose OrigIran for Your Saffron Needs?

At OrigIran, our philosophy centers around customer satisfaction and quality assurance. We treat our customers like family, ensuring that the saffron we provide is of the highest standard. From careful sourcing to meticulous packaging, every step is designed to bring you the best saffron Iran has to offer.

Why Buy from OrigIran?

• Authenticity Guaranteed: Our saffron is sourced directly from trusted farmers in Iran, ensuring that you receive 100% pure and authentic saffron.
• Freshness Preserved: We package our saffron in airtight containers to preserve its aroma and flavor, so you receive it as fresh as possible.
• Convenient and Secure: With our easy-to-use online platform, you can order saffron from the comfort of your home, with secure payment and fast delivery.

Conclusion

Saffron is a spice that deserves the utmost care in selection and purchase. By following the tips outlined above and choosing a reputable supplier like OrigIran, you can ensure that you’re getting the best quality saffron available. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a first-time buyer, understanding how to spot genuine saffron and knowing where to buy it will enhance your culinary experiences and protect your investment in this precious spice.

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