Saffron production
Although saffron is in high demand as spice and colorant these days, its cultivation still relies on traditional
knowledge and has remained largely untouched by industrialization. Altitude, soil characteristics,
temperature, photoperiod, and topographical locations are the critical environmental parameters that affect
saffron production. The quality of the saffron entirely depends on the environmental conditions, content and
composition of secondary metabolites. The major marker compounds crocins, picrocrocin and safranal are
responsible for the coloring, bittering and aromatic powers. Experiments have proved that Iranian saffron has
by far the best and highest quality of saffron in the whole world. The province of South Khorasan and the
province of Razavi Khorasan in the northeast of the country, are the main producing regions of saffron in
Iran, thanks to its relatively dry, sunny climate and the agricultural knowledge passed down through
generations of farmers. The farmers usually reap the harvest during October and November and mostly
around dawn to ensure the highest quality.
Health benefits of saffron
Saffron is generally safe for most people and easy to add to your diet. It contains an impressive variety of
plant compounds. These act as antioxidants — molecules that protect your cells against free radicals and
oxidative stress.
Notable saffron antioxidants include:
- Crocin
- Crocetin
- Safranal
- kaempferol
Crocin and crocetin are carotenoid pigments responsible for saffron red color. Both compounds may have antidepressant properties, protect brain cells against progressive damage, improve inflammation, reduce
appetite and aid weight loss.
Safranal gives saffron its distinct taste and aroma. Research shows that it may help improve your mood, memory, and learning ability, as well as protect your brain cells against oxidative stress.
Lastly, kaempferol is found in saffron flower petals. This compound has been linked to health benefits, such as reduced inflammation, anticancer properties, and antidepressant activities.