Saffron, also known as kungumapoo or crocus sativus, is a spice known for its distinctive flavour, colour, and health benefits. Kashmiri saffron is particularly prized for its high quality and health benefits. The saffron grown in Pampore, Kashmir, is famous worldwide. Per kilogram can fetch a price of around 3 lakh rupees. The Government of India has also granted it a geographical indication (GI) tag, recognizing its unique characteristics and geographical origin.
Kashmiri saffron is a delicate part of the soft purple flowers grown in Pampore. It is often used in traditional dishes such as kheer, kulfi, and biryani to enhance their flavour. But the benefits of saffron go far beyond just its culinary uses. According to Kashmir’s saffron farmer Muzaffar Rashid, saffron grown in Pampore can save lives.
Saffron is widely recognized for its therapeutic qualities
Saffron has a wide range of medicinal properties. It is known for its ability to boost the immune system. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat various diseases, including cancer, Alzheimer’s, insomnia, menstrual problems, asthma, and joint pain. Studies have also shown that saffron can help to lower blood pressure, improve cardiovascular health, and reduce the symptoms of depression.
The high cost of saffron is due to the labour-intensive nature of its cultivation. The stigmas must be carefully hand-picked from the flowers, and it takes over 150,000 flowers to produce just one kilogram of saffron. Despite the cost, many people consider the health benefits of saffron to be well worth the expense.
Most effective way to incorporate it into your regular diet
One of the best ways to consume saffron daily is to add a pinch to your diet, whether in a dish or by consuming it directly. The best way to take saffron directly is by brewing saffron strands in water or milk for about 5-7 mins and then consuming it. You can also add it to your tea or coffee and consume it.
In conclusion, saffron is a spice that is delicious and incredibly healthy. Kashmiri saffron, in particular, is prized for its high quality and medicinal properties. If you want to improve your health and well-being, consider adding saffron to your daily diet. It’s expensive but well worth the price when it comes to its benefits. Whether you use it in traditional dishes or consume it directly, the benefits of saffron are many and varied, and it is a great addition to any diet.
Also Read; The Labor of Love: Hand-Peeling Willow Wicker Twigs in Kashmir
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