Saffron (Kesar)
Also known as
Latin : Crocus sativus
English : Saffron
Sanskrit : Kunkumam, Kesaram
Hindi : Saphran, Kesar
Marathi : Kesar/Kumkum
Tamil : Kunkumappu
Telugu : Kunkumapuvvu
Malayalam : Kunkumapppuvu
Kannada : Kunkumakesari
How it looks�It is a small, bulbous, perennial herb cultivated chiefly in Jammu and Kashmir, with close narrow leaf sheaths. The flowers are blue and scented with orange
trifid stigmas having a characteristic aroma.
What we use�Dried stigmas.
The styles and stigmas which are dried are called saffron.
What it does�Stimulant, tonic, stomachic, aphrodisiac, antispasmodic, emmenogogue, diuretic, laxative, galactogogue.
How we use it�
In
cold�Saffron mixed in milk and applied over the forehead quickly relieves cold. Breastmilk is ideal in this condition.
In
patchy baldness�Saffron mixed in liquorice and milk makes an effective topical application to induce hair growth in alopecia.
In
delayed puberty�In underdeveloped girls, saffron has an overall stimulating effect. A pinch of saffron crushed in a tablespoon of milk is useful to stimulate hormones and
bring about the desired effect.
In
pregnancy�Probably the most renowned use of saffron is its ability to promote complexion. It is widely used all over India in pregnancy to ensure the birth of a fair baby.
A pinch of saffron in milk every day is the recommended dose, but should be discontinued on signs of overheat or spotty bleeding.
To
increase vitality�In low libido, saffron aids as a sexual stimulant and is consumed in a dose of a pinch in a glass of milk at bedtime.
