Saffron crocus is one of the most valuable and beneficial spices in the whole world and is used as a spice. It could be described as the gold of the Greeks as it enhances flavor as well as contain many medicinal properties. Saffron stands out for its excellent quality which ranks it in the first category of organic crocus cultivation in the world. Therefore it’s considered one of the most expensive spices worldwide.

The locals plant the saffron every summer and when autumn arrives they remove by hand the precious stigmas of the beautiful flower and dry them carefully to make the deep red thin threads. It takes about 50,000 spots to produce 100 grams. of red crocus.

The philosophy of its use is similar to an expensive perfume: One drop is enough. In addition, it should be used in small quantities to avoid the bitter taste.

Therapeutic Uses for Saffron Crocus

Saffron crocus’ two main therapeutic components are picrocrocin and crocin. In addition, saffron contains significant amounts of vitamins (A, C, riboflavin, niacin, B6, folic acid, B12,), as well as iron, calcium, magnesium and potassium. Its main macronutrient is carbohydrates, while it contains little protein, minimal fat and zero cholesterol. Scientists have pointed out its anti-aging properties. It is no coincidence that Cleopatra used extracts of the precious plant in her cosmetics. It also helps in treating acne on the skin.

Antioxidant & Anti-cancer Properties of Saffron Crocus

According to a study by the General Chemistry Laboratory of the Agricultural University of Athens in collaboration with the French Laboratoire de Spectroscopie Biomoléculaire, UFR de Pharmacie, the crocins in saffron contain carotenoids that are unusually water-soluble. In addition, saffron crocus has been found to be extremely efficient against certain types of cancer including neuroblastoma, breast cancer and adenocarcinoma of the colon.

In traditional medicine it is used as a perfect emmenagogue and helps the stomach due to its antispasmodic and stimulant properties. Many experts claim that when used in small doses, it soothes kidney pain, stimulates the appetite and mainly facilitates digestion. It also reduces gastric pain, hysteria, convulsions, pertussis and nervous colic.

Saffron Crocus to Your Diet

Saffron Crocus has a fine, delicate aroma with a spicy taste, and gives the food an orange color. Its vibrant color is used in food to embellish flavor and titillate one's appetite.

Powdered saffron is easy to use as it is added to food or dissolved in water. The stigmas should be soaked in a cup of water for 1 hour before cooking and then added to food either with water or just after straining. It can also be consumed, by adding 10-12 drops per cup of tea.

Intake of up to 1.5 g per day is considered safe, however in doses over 5 g per day, the saffron crocus is toxic to the body. It is not indicated for people with liver or kidney disease, while its excessive consumption should be avoided by pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Add Saffron crocus into your diet by adding it to your meals. It can be used with a wine sauce to marinate fish and grilled vegetables. Not only will it add a rich color to your recipe, but gives a touch of luxury to white meats. Saffron crocus is also ideal for organic decoctions!

• Organic Black Tea with Lemon, Mint & Kozani crocus

• Organic Drink with Honey, Orange & Kozani crocus