Saffron

Saffron /ˈsæfrən / which is known as “red gold” is the one of the most expensive spices in the world. Some believe that saffron has been planting since 4000 years ago. Every year, the Iranian saffron harvest season begins in early October (based on era claimant) and lasts about tow months. Saffron grows in special weather conditions, in hot-dry climates and needs full sun. Its seed (onion) should be planted by hand one by one. When its flower grows up three or four violet-blue flowers appear . Each of these flowers has two or three red stigmas. Saffron actually is these red stigmas.

Iran, Spain, Afghanistan, Greece and India have the highest share of the international saffron market. According to the report which was published by Financial Tribune, Iran produces 92 percent of all saffron which is produced in the world.

Iranian Saffron

According to the the statistic by Iran agriculture ministry in 2020, Iran produces 330 tons saffron per year and export 280 tons of this product to the international market. Persians have different ways of brewing saffron. They grind the fragile stigmas in a small mortar, then mix it with hot water and put it in a warm place for some minutes.

South Khorasan province which is located in the East of Iran is the heart of producing saffron in Iran and about 85 percent of Iranian saffron is cultivated in this province. Qaen and Birjand are the main lands for cultivating saffron is south khorasan.

Iranian farmers begin harvesting saffron before sunrise, when the petals of flowers have not been disposed to sunlight yet. So, for having a high quality saffron, farmers have only a few hours to pick the stigmas by hand. After that, the red parts of stigmas should be separated from the white end parts. each 500 stigma’s weight is only 1 gram and for reaching to this amount of stigma 167 saffron flowers are needed.

Saffron Applications

Saffron is rich in plant compounds and minerals which is why it has impressive health benefits. It is widely used in baking, medicines, and industry. This spice is a strong and powerful antioxidant that protects the body against free radicals and minimizes cancer risks. It can boost the energy level and improves the mood, as it has antidepressant properties. It can reduce both physical and emotional Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) symptoms, such as headaches, pains, irritability, and anxiety. Studies also proved that saffron improves eyesight. Studies showed that this red spice can protect brain cells and improves memory function in aiding Alzheimer’s disease. It has anti-aging effects and can brighten skin, which is why it is used in beauty cosmetic productions.

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