Saffron

(Saffron)
Sanskrit: केसर • Botanical: Crocus sativus Linn.

Kesar (Saffron) is obtained from the dried stigmas of Crocus sativus. It is cultivated mainly in Kashmir and also imported from countries like Iran and Spain. The text describes it as bitter and pungent with unctuous quality. It is heating in potency. Saffron alleviates all three doshas (Tridosha). It is one of the most valued drugs for complexion enhancement (Varnya), and is extensively used in cosmetic and therapeutic formulations. The text mentions its use in headache, cardiac disorders, and as a general tonic. A paste of saffron applied externally improves skin complexion. It is used in asthma, cough, fever, and as a uterine tonic. The corms (bulbs) produce the plant, and the stigmas are the medicinally valuable part. The Spathe, Scape, Perianth (funnel-shaped tube), Stamens, Anther, Style, and Capsule are described botanically. The Stigma is the key part collected. Dose: 50-125 mg.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Pungent (Katu)
Quality (Guna)
Unctuous (Snigdha)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Crocin, Crocetin, Safranal, Picrocrocin, Essential oil
Also Known As
English: Saffron
Sanskrit: कुङ्कुम, काश्मीर, बाह्लीक, अग्निशिखा, रक्त
Hindi: केसर, जाफरान

What is Saffron (Kesar / केसर)?

Kesar (Saffron) is obtained from the dried stigmas of Crocus sativus. It is cultivated mainly in Kashmir and also imported from countries like Iran and Spain. The text describes it as bitter and pungent with unctuous quality. It is heating in potency. Saffron alleviates all three doshas (Tridosha). It is one of the most valued drugs for complexion enhancement (Varnya), and is extensively used in cosmetic and therapeutic formulations. The text mentions its use in headache, cardiac disorders, and as a general tonic. A paste of saffron applied externally improves skin complexion. It is used in asthma, cough, fever, and as a uterine tonic. The corms (bulbs) produce the plant, and the stigmas are the medicinally valuable part. The Spathe, Scape, Perianth (funnel-shaped tube), Stamens, Anther, Style, and Capsule are described botanically. The Stigma is the key part collected. Dose: 50-125 mg.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 2

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Varnya (improves complexion)
  • Hridya (cardiotonic)
  • Vedanasthapana (analgesic)
  • Vishaghna (antitoxic)
  • Medhya (intellect-promoting)
  • Kanthya (beneficial for throat)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 2

Saffron by Condition

Explore how Saffron is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Saffron for Brain Fog & Memory
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Saffron for Fertility & Conception
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Saffron for Male Sexual Health
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Saffron for Menopause & Hot Flashes
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Saffron for Menstrual Health

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.