Saffron is one of the most expensive spices known for its color, flavor and medicinal properties. Saffron is bitter in taste, has a pleasant, soothing aroma and used mostly as spice and for coloring in many cuisines around the world. It is a great source of Riboflavin ( B12), contains essential oil Safranal and pro vitamin A.
Saffron is traditionally used by Yogis to maintain the calm and to promote the Sattva (purity).
Divine Saffron Oatmeal Recipe
Serves 2
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Almond/Cashew milk
- ½ cup organic, steel cut oats
- 1 Tbsp organic ghee or coconut oil
- Pinch of saffron (3-4 stems)
- Pinch of cinnamon
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 small banana or any other seasonal fruits/berries (optional)
- Honey or brown sugar (optional)
Directions:
In a small sauce pan, mix milk and oats. Place it on the medium flame and bring to boil. Add saffron, cinnamon, chopped nuts and ghee/coconut oil. Cook for two more minutes or until the oats are thoroughly cooked.
Remove from heat. Add honey or brown sugar if desired. Pour in a bowl and add fruits.
Inhale the aroma and enjoy warm.
Note: Substitute oats with cooked quinoa, cooked brown rice etc. if desired. Cooking time may vary for each grain.
Saffron in Ayurveda
Saffron is mentioned in the oldest Ayurvedic texts like Charaka Samhita & Sushruta Samhita (approx. 500 B.C). It is an important ingredient of many medical recipes. It is mentioned as Kumkum, Kesar, Kashmiraja, Bahleeka, Rudhira and Sankocha.
Ayurveda mentions many benefits of Saffron in ailments such as mental disorders, vomiting, cough, asthma, epilepsy and skin disorders.
Saffron in Modern Medicine
There is some evidence to suggest that Saffron may alleviate symptoms of depression.
Early studies show that saffron may be beneficial for eye conditions such as slowing the macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa. Saffron is also used as an expectorant in coughs, in asthma, as a digestive aid (gas problems) and in insomnia. Early cancer research is suggesting some promising benefits of saffron for cancer.
Saffron is used in skin care to bring out a glow and to relieve dry skin. Saffron is considered as a great blood purifier. Women use it to relieve PMS and menstrual cramps.
Note: Saffron in large quantity, is not considered safe in pregnancy, as it may promote miscarriage.
This exotic spice is a native of Southern Europe and also grows in many countries including Spain, Italy, France, Greece, Turkey, Iran, and the Indian state of Jammu & Kashmir.
Sources : Wikipedia , Web MD, Royal Saffron website
Try out this Heavenly Saffron Oatmeal Recipe and let us know what you think in the comments below!