Saffron, the Flower of Good and Evil
The Flower of Good and Evil
One of our gastronomic treasures, much more highly valued outside our borders than in the country. A unique flower that finishes dishes, makes wonderful rice dishes… it still has the pending task of becoming successful at home. But what about abroad? Yes, there too.
Saffron is obtained from the beautiful lilac flower Crocus sativus, belonging to the family Iridaceae, and is used to season many dishes, including paella.
The harvest takes place in autumn, and it is a process that requires great delicacy. It consists of extracting the three red stigmas from the flower, which once dried form saffron.
I think it's clear why it is such an expensive product.
To give an idea: more than 130,000 flowers are needed to obtain one kilogram of saffron. Imagine the work!
Why is it called the flower of evil?
Excessive doses can be lethal. Consuming more than 4 grams of saffron can cause severe effects and even lead to death. This is something that does not happen when we consume saffron in food. For example, to season a paella dish approximately 0.120 grams of saffron are used.
To reach saffron poisoning, we would have to eat 30 servings of paella!
Why is it called the flower of good?
Since ancient times it has been known for its healing powers, as it is rich in vitamins A and C, B-group vitamins, and antioxidants such as carotenoids. It also contains mineral salts such as potassium, magnesium, iron, calcium, phosphorus, and manganese.
- Saffron as an antidepressant
The Arabs were the first to use saffron as an antidepressant, since it has been shown to have the ability to relieve anxiety and calm the nerves.
- Saffron as an anti-inflammatory
It also has a calming effect and is an excellent stimulant of the digestive system, increasing the production of gastric juices and bile and facilitating digestion.
- Saffron as an aphrodisiac
In Greek mythology, the god Hermes stimulated sexual desire with this compound. Studies have shown that consuming saffron improves hormone production, and therefore increases sexual desire, as well as protecting the reproductive system.
The effect that the color yellow has on our mood is explained by chromotherapy.
When we look at the color yellow, color vibrations are generated that reach the hypothalamus, producing a feeling of well-being and a good mood.
What other uses does saffron have?
In beauty treatments
It is an ally for the skin and hair. It can be added to facial masks, exfoliants, and hair masks.
As a natural dye
Even today Buddhist monks dye their robes with saffron. You only need a pot, a little salt, and saffron. The clothing will be perfectly dyed and free of toxins.
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