Beauty secrets of saffron

Since time immemorial, saffron has been used in beauty care. “Like saffron, let us spread beauty and flavor wherever we go” – Unknown

It is said that Cleopatra, the ancient Egyptian queen known for her beauty, used saffron in her skincare regimen. She reportedly added saffron to her milk baths for its skin-enhancing properties. Chinese empress Wu Zetian, the only female emperor in Chinese history, was known for her youthful appearance. It is believed that she used saffron-infused face masks as part of her skincare routine. Saffron was also used in ancient Greek and Roman beauty practices. Even male figures like Emperor Nero and Greek philosopher Theophrastus were known to use saffron in perfumes and cosmetics.

What is saffron?

Saffron is derived from the dried stigmas of the purple flower botanical name of which is Crocus sativus. This tiny stunningly beautiful flower is one of the first bulb flowers of the season. Each crocus flower has three vivid crimson stigmas, which are the saffron threads.

Saffron is the most expensive spice in the world

So, one flower only produces a few precious threads, and it takes a large number of flowers to yield a relatively small amount of saffron.

Saffron production is completely manual, hand-labor intensive process – 40 hours of labour are needed to pick 150,000 flowers. To glean 1 kilo of dry saffron requires the harvest of 110,000–170,000 flowers. The flowers have to be individually hand-picked when they fully open. No wonder that saffron prices at wholesale and retail rates range from $1,100 to $11,000 per kilogram. A pound contains between 70,000 and 200,000 threads.

Beauty secrets of saffron

Saffron has long been treasured for its beauty-enhancing properties. Here are some beauty secrets associated with saffron:

Skin Brightening

Saffron is known for its skin brightening properties. You can mix a few strands of saffron with milk or rose water and apply it to your face as a mask. Leave it on for about 15-20 minutes before rinsing off. Regular use can help improve your skin’s complexion and impart a natural glow.

Anti-Aging

Saffron is rich in antioxidants that help combat free radicals and prevent signs of aging. It can be used in face masks or added to facial oils to nourish and rejuvenate the skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

Complexion Enhancement

Saffron is believed to lighten and even out the skin tone. It can be mixed with ingredients like sandalwood powder, turmeric, or gram flour (besan) to create face packs that help improve the complexion and reduce dark spots or pigmentation.

Acne Treatment

Saffron possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help in the treatment of acne. Mixing saffron with honey or aloe vera gel and applying it to the affected areas can help soothe inflammation, reduce redness, and prevent bacterial growth.

Hair Nourishment

Saffron can also benefit your hair. Soaking a few strands of saffron in warm milk or oil and applying it to the scalp can promote hair growth, strengthen the hair follicles, and add luster to the hair.

Stress Relief

Saffron is known for its mood-enhancing properties. Consuming saffron tea or adding saffron to warm milk before bed can help promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality, which indirectly contributes to overall beauty and well-being.

“Stress is the enemy of beauty. It can disrupt the harmony within and overshadow the radiance that lies beneath.” – Unknown

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But keep in mind that the use of saffron in your beauty care is your personal choice. You may incorporate it into your beauty routine based on your own preferences and beliefs about its potential benefits.