Ancient Uses for Saffron

Saffron, the stigmas of the Crocus sativa flower, is primarily grown in Iran. However, saffron production in western Afghanistan is being promoted as a replacement crop for opium. Saffron has been grown in the Persian Gulf region for more than 35 centuries. In bulk, inferior-quality saffron sells for around $500 per pound, and because of its value, cultivation has spread over time. Saffron has been harvested as far west as Britain and successfully planted in several Chinese provinces to the east.

Coloring Agent

• Buddhist monks still wear saffron-colored robes.

  For centuries, saffron has played an important role as a coloring agent. When used in small quantities, saffron will transfer a yellowish-reddish-orange color to fabric used for robes by Hindu and Buddhist monks. Less expensive alternatives, such as turmeric, curry and gardenia fruit, are inferior and fail to produce comparable colors. In China, despite their inferiority, these more affordable options are being developed as viable substitutions for saffron.

Mental Health

• Crocin and safranal are believed to be the active components of the plant that directly react with chemicals in the brain and raise serotonin levels. In ancient times, saffron was used extensively as a medicinal. Saffron's use as a treatment for depression and anxiety has been well-documented. In 1596, the Chinese compendium Bencao Gangmu noted that saffron proved useful in calming fright in addition to having other beneficial attributes and Shennong's Great Herbal document mentions saffron's effectiveness dating back to around 300 B.C.

Aphrodisiacs

• As early as 965 B.C., biblical references attribute the use of spices to sensuality. In the ancient biblical book Songs of Solomon, passages mention saffron and other spices and herbs as aphrodisiacs. Wealthy ancient Egyptians, including Egyptian queens such as Cleopatra, developed saffron-blended bath oils and saffron, myrrh and oil mixtures to wear as fragrances. Saffron contains the chemical picrocrocin, which is linked to erotic stimulation, sexual arousal and libido.

Other Uses

• Saffron has a long history in traditional healing and medicinal applications for the treatment of a variety of illnesses and troublesome ailments, such as digestive disorders, eye diseases and inflammation, menstrual pain, menopausal problems, and chronic diarrhea. The Bastyr Center for Natural Health and other organizations have reported that modern medicine has discovered saffron has "anti-carcinogenic, anti-mutagenic, immunomodulating, and antioxidant-like properties."

Disclaimer

• The health information on saffron is not intended as medical advice and should not be considered a substitute for appropriate medical care. Consult your physician when considering any alternative treatment.