Saffron – origin, types, benefits, and a recipe for tea with red gold

by Irena Filipova September 27, 2025

Saffron – the Golden Spice: Origin, Types, Benefits, and Aromatic Tea

What is saffron?

Saffron is one of the most expensive and valuable spices in the world, often called "red gold." It is obtained from the stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower – a beautiful purple flower that blooms only once a year.

To produce 1 kilogram of saffron, approximately 150,000–200,000 flowers are needed, which explains its high price. Besides being a culinary spice, saffron has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, cosmetics, and even religious rituals.

Origin and History of Saffron

Saffron originated in Asia Minor and Persia and was used in ancient times. The Egyptians valued it as a beauty agent, the Greeks as a medicine, and the Arabs spread it throughout Europe.

Today, the main producers are:

Iran – with over 90% of global production.
India (Kashmir) – with high-quality saffron with an intense aroma.
Spain – known for "La Mancha" saffron.
Greece – an increasingly valued producer in Europe.

📌 To recognize real saffron, look for long, dark red threads. Cheap powder often contains impurities.

Types of Saffron

Saffron is divided into several main types according to its origin and the quality of the threads. Each has its specific characteristics, taste, and aroma.

Iranian Saffron (Sargol, Negin, Pushal) – Iran is the largest saffron producer in the world.
Sargol consists only of the tips of the stigmas, making it exceptionally pure and strong in aroma and color.
Negin is an even higher quality variety with long threads and an intense red color.
Pushal contains a small part of the yellowish stalk, which makes it more accessible but with a weaker aroma.
Spanish Saffron (La Mancha) – one of the most recognizable European varieties. It has a milder taste and a characteristic sweet aroma, making it suitable for paella and other traditional Mediterranean dishes.
Kashmiri Saffron – considered one of the rarest and highest quality varieties. It is produced in small quantities in the Kashmir region, India. It stands out with a deep red color, strong aroma, and higher price.
Greek Saffron (Kozani) – less known but also very valuable. It has a delicate aroma and balanced taste and is often preferred in Europe due to controlled production standards.

Health Benefits of Saffron

Saffron is not just a spice, but a real superfood.

🌿 Improves mood – thanks to the active substances crocin and safranal, it reduces stress and symptoms of depression.
👁 Eye care – supports retinal health.
❤️ Supports the heart – regulates blood pressure and improves blood circulation.
🔬 Strong antioxidant – protects cells from aging.
🍽 Improves digestion – works well for bloating and heaviness.

How is saffron used?

Saffron is widely applicable:

In cooking – for rice dishes, desserts, soups, and sauces.
In beverages – tea, saffron milk, cocktails.
In cosmetics – as an ingredient in creams and face masks.

Recipe: Saffron Tea for vigor and mood

Ingredients:

3–4 threads of real saffron
250 ml hot water
1 tsp honey or stevia (optional)
a slice of lemon or orange

Instructions:

Place the saffron threads in a cup.
Pour hot (but not boiling) water over them.
Let steep for 8–10 minutes until the water turns a golden-red color.
Sweeten with honey and add lemon.

👉 You get an aromatic tea that brings both calm and energy.

Frequently Asked Questions:

❓ How much saffron can be taken per day?

- The recommended dose is up to 30–50 mg of saffron daily (about a few threads).

❓ How do I know if saffron is real?

- Real saffron has long threads with an intense red color, and when steeped, it slowly and evenly colors the water golden.

❓ Can I drink saffron every day?

- Yes, but in moderation. Consumption in tea or as a spice is safe.

❓ What is saffron used for in cooking?

- Mainly in rice dishes (paella, risotto), sweets, soups, and beverages.

Where to find saffron?

If you are looking for quality saffron at a good price, check out our offers here

Saffron in cosmetics – a beauty secret

Besides cooking and as a healthy supplement, saffron also has a special place in cosmetics. Since the time of Cleopatra, saffron threads have been used to maintain radiant skin.

Today, saffron is a valuable ingredient in creams, serums, and masks because:

✨ Brightens and evens skin tone – reduces pigmentation and spots.
🌿 Has antibacterial properties – suitable for acne and problematic skin.
🧴 Slows down aging – antioxidants in saffron protect the skin from free radicals and the appearance of wrinkles.
💧 Hydrates and refreshes – leaves skin soft and radiant.

📌 Homemade saffron mask: soak 2–3 saffron threads in 1 tbsp milk for 15 minutes. Mix with 1 tsp honey and apply to the face for 10–15 minutes. The result is fresh and radiant skin.