Saffron (earthy, true): see benefits and how to use

The name is quite popular and the culinary use is vast. In fact, wider than you think – this is because the term saffron is used to designate two food products: real saffron and turmeric , which is the famous turmeric or fake turmeric.

Although the use of real saffron is quite wide, being common in several dishes, its price is extremely high, making it not always feasible to enjoy the flavor of the spice.

So, before continuing the recipe and taking the risk of putting the wrong saffron, it’s worth knowing a little more about these products!

Contents

What is turmeric?

Turmeric is a way of calling turmeric , a rhizome (similar to a root) from the same family as ginger . The scientific name is Curcuma longa, belonging to the zingeberaceae family , but other popular names include turmeric, turmeric, false turmeric, yellow or turmeric ginger.

Rhizomes are stems, usually grow underground, horizontally and concentrate nutrients. Although small portions can sometimes grow above the surface of the soil, rhizomes are mostly underground.

Spice is common in health food stores and supermarkets, and it is usually sold dehydrated and powdered. Its color tends to vary between bright yellow, burnt yellow and yellowish brown.

Types: how can turmeric be found?

Turmeric, or turmeric, can be found in different presentations:

In powder

The powder is easier to find and use in cooking. That’s because the entire rhizome is not always easily found.

When looking in stores – whether in bulk or in packages – it is possible to find different shades of turmeric, with curcumin being responsible for its most intense coloring – the main active compound.

The choice depends on the preferences and affinities with the flavor, because the more curcumin (that is, the darker the powder), the more accentuated and intense the flavor.

Capsules (supplement)

For those who consume turmeric in search of its functional properties, you can find in the capsule version a favorable option. This is because turmeric supplements have a higher concentration of extracts and facilitate ingestion of the product.

In general, herbal medicines can be found in versions from 100mg to 500mg and should always be recommended by a specialized professional.

Fresco

Anyone who wants to work with fresh turmeric, either by taste or by presentation, will have no great difficulties in using the product.

The flavor tends to be a little more citrusy, fresh and spicy than the powdered version. Its use is very similar to that of ginger, and it can be chopped into small pieces, grated or processed (in a blender or processor).

What are the properties and what is turmeric for?

Curcumin is the substance that receives the most attention in turmeric. Most of the product’s benefits are attributed to it, which is a polyphenol (molecules present in plants that can have positive effects on the body).

Due to its properties, turmeric is ingested to help fight germs and viruses, aid in the digestive system, improve energy, strengthen immunity, regulate blood sugar and optimize metabolism.

However, it is noteworthy that despite the various studies carried out on the effects of turmeric, attributing them to curcumin, a survey by the University of Minnesota, in the United States, published in the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry and in the journal Nature , pointed out that some caveats are needed.

The spice does, in fact, have high concentrations of curcumin, but there are also a number of other nutrients that may be responsible for the benefits. The study resulted in the need to review some published articles on the benefits of curcumin.

Turmeric also has good concentrations of some nutrients, such as iron (prevents anemia), manganese (essential in metabolism), vitamin B6 (necessary for brain functions and tissue formation), copper (helps with skin health) and potassium (necessary for the muscles), in addition to the fibers (make the intestine work).

Although, alone, it is not able to meet the daily needs of nutrients, it is an option that can be combined with food, providing a food boost.

Used extensively in traditional and natural medicine, it is still the most popular culinary use, especially to give color to dishes, to season and give a spicy flavor, and to accentuate the aroma.

Benefits of turmeric

In addition to highlighting the color, flavor and presentation of the dishes, turmeric is associated with some beneficial actions for human health, especially due to curcumin – a yellow phenolic compound that gives color and flavor to the preparations.

In Chinese and Indian medicine, turmeric is used as a digestion facilitator, antiseptic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, as it has functional properties – that is, it is good for the body.

Among the benefits found in the spice, are:

It is antioxidant

The first aspect related to antioxidant foods is aging. But, in addition to the benefits of cell preservation (and youthful appearance), antioxidants help prevent various diseases that can be caused by the action of free radicals (molecules that accelerate data to cells).

Studies suggest that curcumin acts by inhibiting free radicals and also by stimulating the action of the body’s enzymes, which result in the maintenance of the body’s functions and healthy aging.

Improves brain health and prevents degenerative diseases

Animal studies at the Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, in Germany, pointed out that turmeric has properties capable of stimulating the growth of nerve cells and, therefore, consuming the product can help in the repair of the organ.

The study is still early and has not been tested on humans, but it does indicate that the spice may reduce the risk of degenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s.

Rich in nutrients

The turmeric include nutrients such as iron, manganese, copper, potassium, vitamin C, vitamins of the B complex and phosphorus. Although it is not enough to meet the daily needs of each component, combined with good nutrition, curcumin can assist in a balanced diet, strengthening the body.

Reduces acne

Inserting turmeric in the diet can improve the appearance of the skin affected by acne. As the spice has antiseptic and antibacterial properties, consumption can help reduce oiliness and inflammation of the skin.

In addition to minimizing the appearance of new pimples, regularly consuming turmeric can speed up the drying and healing of those that have already appeared.

Reduces cancer risks

It is pointed out that curcumin may reduce the risks of breast , skin, rectal and colorectal cancer due to the possible inhibition of the reproduction of cancer cells.

In addition, gastrointestinal, lung and bladder cancers can benefit from treatment due to inhibition of the spread of cancer cells.

However, ongoing research at USP points out that there is a limit to the benefit. While low doses of curcumin can help fight harmful cells, ingestion of large amounts can have the opposite effect and cause the accelerated spread of cancer .

Decreases inflammation

Turmeric substances are associated with a decrease in oxidative damage to cells, resulting in increased body resistance and reduced inflammatory processes.

In addition, due to the inhibition of the production of inflammatory cytokines (molecules that control the body’s functions), several chronic conditions are reduced, controlled or alleviated.

For example, patients with inflammatory arthritis suffer from pain due to free radicals that wear out the joints. With less cartilaginous tissue protecting the bones, the region begins to inflame and cause pain.

Although it has no effect on joint recovery, turmeric can reduce the inflammatory response and relieve pain.

It is antiseptic

Turmeric has been used in Chinese and Indian medicine for decades as a powerful antiseptic. In both food and topical use (passing through the surface of the skin), turmeric-based pastes and creams are resources for cleaning wounds and treating inflammation.

Reduces sugar rates

A review study published in the Pedagogical Notebook in 2015 found 10 published scientific researches on the effects of turmeric on glycemic rates.

In general, the articles point out that curcumin has anti-hyperglycemic potential (that is, it prevents the increase in the blood sugar rate) and improves sensitivity to insulin (a hormone that regulates blood sugar).

In addition, there is research pointing to possible long-term protective effects for patients with diabetes .

The disease can cause future damage to the body, turmeric can help stabilize blood glucose and reduce the risk of complications, such as loss of vision and damage to circulation.

Has thermogenic action

Turmeric has the ability to raise body temperature, causing the metabolism to burn more calories than it provides. If the intake is for functional purposes (in tea or supplements, for example), turmeric can be a good ally in weight loss.

Read more: Tips to change habits and lose weight with health

Improves heart health

Cardiac dysfunctions can have different causes and, therefore, the actions of curcumin in the body can help in the prevention of heart disease.

The substance can assist in maintaining or improving the function of the endothelium, which is the lining of the blood vessels, responsible mainly for the anticoagulant and vasodilator functions.

When there are changes in the endothelial system, blood flow is affected (due to irregular dilation and contraction), which can cause damage to cardiac health.

In addition, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action of curcumin also helps in the preservation of cardiac cells.

Saffron benefits for beauty

Saffron is part of several recipes to help in the health of the skin and hair, being applied to the skin and hair, as long as the tissues are healthy.

It’s like making a homemade beauty mask : it can help to give you more vitality and health, but it should not replace the appropriate treatments and professional guidance.

Remembering that in cases of dermatitis , acne , ingrown hairs and wounds, the ideal is to consult a doctor and not apply any product that can irritate the region.

In the cosmetic market, there are products that combine saffron with creams, shampoos and body masks, which should be used according to the packaging guidelines

For those who want to invest in home treatments, you can mix the turmeric powder to the cream or coconut oil, applying to the skin or hair once a week.

Read more: Coconut oil in hair: what are the benefits?

How to use turmeric?

Essential in Asian, Thai, Moroccan and also Brazilian cuisine (especially in typical Minas Gerais dishes), turmeric gives flavor to some preparations. If it is for the culinary touch, it is best to follow the recipe, but if the use is for functional purposes, it is worth consuming the raw product – dissolved in cold liquids.

The foods that best combine with the spice are:

  • Rice;
  • Stews;
  • Seafood;
  • White or red meat;
  • Fish.

However, care must be taken with green vegetables, as turmeric tends to affect color, leaving them gray. When purchased in powder, it can be added directly to the preparation, usually at the beginning, to release the flavor.

It is worth remembering that, especially when using powder, turmeric will change the color of the dish. This makes it a natural color for drinks, sauces, pastes and creams – not forgetting that it also affects the taste.

But if it is fresh, with the root, the spice can be crushed, chopped or grated, then you can sauté or cook with other foods.

In general, the amount is up to 1 teaspoon of the powder or grated product for each preparation.

Remembering that turmeric can be found and used for teas, spices and cooking in general, in the form of powder or fresh rhizome.

In addition, it is suggested that combining the spice with black pepper, ginger or olive oil can optimize the absorption of the food, improving the benefits to the body.

The best use occurs due to the presence of substances such as piperine and quercetin, which increase the bioavailability of curcumin.

Therefore, it is worth investing in some allies when it comes to seasoning food.

How much turmeric to use per day?

For those who only use it as seasoning, the amount goes according to the recipe, as it hardly exceeds the recommended daily dosage.

But for those who use it as a functional food or supplement, being aware of the doses is important.

Although there is no consensus between the recommendations for ingestion, the daily dose is usually between 100mg and 300mg , which can be increased according to the objectives. Studies indicate that the consumption of powdered or fresh product should not exceed 1g daily .

The supplements depend on the concentration and, therefore, one must always follow the guidelines of the label and the doctor. In general, ingestion is 1 or 2 times a day, with meals.

Do turmeric lose weight?

Regular consumption of turmeric can bring benefits to the body, which, combined with healthy habits, favor weight loss.

For example, the ability to reduce blood sugar levels helps to reduce hunger peaks or that urge to eat sweets.

In addition, the product can have thermogenic effects, that is, raise body temperature. This means that more calories are burned in the digestion process.

This ability is favored if the intake is combined with physical exercises.

For this reason, turmeric can assist in the process of maintaining or reducing weight, always combined with healthy eating.

Saffron tea: how to make it?

Due to its benefits and flavor, turmeric is widely used in the preparation of teas.

Ideally, the consumption of the turmeric-based drink is recommended by a professional herbalist, as soon as the product can have side effects or contraindications.

If properly recommended, teas can combine elements and vary in flavor. For example:

Saffron tea with lemon

  • 500mL of water;
  • 2 teaspoons of turmeric powder (10g);
  • 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (15mL);
  • Honey to sweeten (about 1 teaspoon).

Bring the water to heat and, before boiling, remove from heat. Add the turmeric powder, lemon juice and honey, stirring until all the ingredients are mixed.

The ideal is to use 2 tablespoons (30mL) of the drink per day.

Tea with fresh turmeric

  • 500mL of water;
  • 2 slices or slices of ginger;
  • 2 teaspoons of grated fresh turmeric (10g);
  • 4 teaspoons of lemon juice (20mL);
  • 2 tablespoons of honey.

Bring the water to the fire and, when starting to boil, add the ingredients, stirring so that they are diluted.

Saffron tea for weight loss

  • 500mL of water;
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric powder (5g);
  • 1 teaspoon of honey;
  • 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (15mL);
  • 1 pinch of ground black pepper (about 0.5g).

Bring the water to a boil, turn off the heat and add the ingredients. Mix well and drink during the day or after meals.

Recipes with turmeric

Check out some tips for including food in meals:

Curry

Okay, curry isn’t exactly a meal, but it’s a widely used spice. Of Indian origin, the spice became popular in other regions and is already included in several dishes.

The seasoning consists of a mixture of some other foods that may vary according to the location. One of the recipes is:

  • 3 tablespoons of coriander seed;
  • 1 piece of cinnamon stick;
  • 2 tablespoons of cumin seed;
  • 2 teaspoons turmeric powder;
  • 1 teaspoon of mustard seed;
  • 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper.

Put all the ingredients in a non-stick frying pan and put it on the fire to toast. When the aroma is very strong and the mustard seeds are “jumping”, it’s time to take them out of the fire.

Take to the crusher or mixer until it becomes a powder. Then just store in a suitable container and use in the preparations.

Saffron Risotto

For risotto, you need:

  • 4 tablespoons of butter or margarine;
  • 1 medium onion;
  • 2 cups of Arborio rice;
  • 1 pinch of salt; 1/2 cup of white wine;
  • 1/2 tablespoon ground turmeric powder;
  • 1 and 1/2 liter of water;
  • 1 tablet of legume broth.

For the recipe, you can prepare homemade vegetable broth, according to your preference, or dissolve a tablet of the industrialized broth in 1 and 1/2 liter of water.

Place the margarine or butter in a saucepan and heat until melted. Add the onion and saute until slightly transparent. Then put the rice and mix well, letting it sauté lightly (about 1 minute).

Add the wine, stir and wait for all the liquid to evaporate. Put the turmeric and about 1 cup of the vegetable broth.

From that moment, it is necessary to let the liquid evaporate again, stirring from time to time. When the rice has dried, add another cup of the liquid, waiting until it dries again.

The process must be repeated until the vegetable broth is finished. After removing from the heat, it is possible to add cheese to the finished dish.

What are the side effects of turmeric (turmeric)?

In general, turmeric is considered safe and few people experience adverse effects with proper and moderate use. Remembering that daily doses of up to 10g per day are reported to be safe in terms of toxicity.

When they occur, the most common effects are:

  • Increased bile contractions (affecting the proper release of bile, a liquid that participates in digestion);
  • Contact dermatitis, especially after exposure to the sun;
  • Increased risk of bleeding (due to platelet inhibiting action);
  • Nausea and vomiting;
  • Intestinal dysfunctions, such as diarrhea and pain when evacuating;
  • Difficulties in blood clotting;
  • Blood pressure drops;
  • Colic and uterine contractions;
  • Increased menstrual flow;
  • Hypoglycemia (drop in blood sugar) in patients with diabetes;
  • Ulcers, stomach irritations and burning;
  • Iron active anemias;
  • Deregulation of hepatic (liver) functions.

Contraindications for turmeric

Patients using continuous medications or medical treatments should always talk to their healthcare professional before taking any tea or supplements.

The use of turmeric as a spice should be avoided in patients who have allergic manifestations after ingestion or in cases of:

  • Use of anticoagulant drugs, anti-inflammatory drugs or food supplements;
  • Chronic diseases;
  • Gastritis or reflux;
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding;
  • Age less than 12 years;
  • Allergy or high degree of sensitivity;
  • Cancer;
  • Changes in hormonal rates;
  • Chemo or radiotherapy;
  • Gallstone;
  • Liver changes;
  • Treatment for male infertility;
  • Anemia or low iron absorption;
  • Blood clotting difficulties;
  • Recent surgery.

Price and where to find turmeric

Powdered turmeric or fresh rhizome can be found in health food stores, markets and organic stores. Its price varies between R $ 30 and R $ 90 a kilo.

Turmeric supplements and herbal medicines, on the other hand, are purchased at commercial or handling pharmacies and prices are, in general, from R $ 70.

You can also find the best prices and options in online pharmacies, through the Consultations Remedies .

Remembering that any supplement or medication should only be used with the express recommendation of a professional.

What is true saffron?

Its cultivation is old and has been occurring for more than 3 thousand years, and its culinary use raises the value of the dishes considerably – and not just because of the taste and appearance -, because the real saffron is one of the most expensive substances in the world.

The price is related to the difficulty in obtaining the product, as soon as it is the stigma (reproductive organ of flowers) of Crocus sativus linnaeus – a flower of Asian origin and lilac or violet coloring.

Stigma is a small portion of the flower, which can be compared to a piece of fine string. But, to make it more evident why the product is so expensive, it is necessary to know that about 200 thousand flowers are needed to have 1 kilo of saffron.

Cultivation and harvesting are also difficult, as the plant grows best in extreme climates: in the harsh winter or in the intense heat.

To harvest it, care is needed, as the stigmas must be removed one by one, manually.

After being separated from the flowers, the delicate threads pass through a drying process – placed in sieves, the product is taken to low heat -, causing up to 80% of the total weight to be reduced.

For this reason, true saffron is also called red gold .

Currently, regions of Italy, Iran, Greece, Turkey and India grow saffron, but it is in Spain that the cultivation and quality of the product stand out – and it is the Spanish culinary chefs that, popularly, best dominate the aromas and flavors of saffron. .

In general, it is used for culinary use, as seasoning of meats, risottos, paellas and sauces, but Buddhists consider it a symbol of wisdom, also using it in rituals.

Benefits of true saffron

In addition to the name and culinary use, turmeric and real turmeric have another similarity: they are considered functional foods.

For the real thing, it is the anxiolytic, antispasmodic (related to muscle spasms , such as colic) and anti-inflammatory functions that stand out the most, mainly due to the carotenoids (plant pigments) crocine, crocetine, picrocrocine and safranal. Learn more about some of the main benefits:

Helps in heart health

Crocin is a substance that has the ability to lower bad cholesterol (LDL) in the blood. In addition, crocetin can promote blood oxygenation, causing organs and tissues to receive oxygen properly to maintain their functions.

Together, these substances promote improvements in heart health, as they reduce the risks of arterial plaques, that is, obstructions of the arteries.

Fight obesity

Ongoing studies indicate that crocetin, present in true turmeric, can have positive effects in combating obesity . This is due to the decrease in the absorption of lipids (fat) and reduction in the differentiation of adipocytes (cells that store fat) that turmeric can promote.

Helps in the emotional and the brain

Chinese medicine uses turmeric to treat pain and antidepressants. A 2008 study on the herbal application of saffron, 2008, indicates that the product can be used to reduce depression , relieve anxiety and improve cognitive abilities of memory and contraction.

Read more: How to control anxiety? 14 tips to avoid crises

Regulates menstruation

Studies on the medicinal action of plants, published in 2008, indicate that true turmeric can have positive effects on the central nervous system (CNS) and in the uterus, regulating menstrual cycles.

With this, it is not just menstruation that is up to date, as cramps decrease and women who want to get pregnant suffer with less variation in the fertile period .

Anti-inflammatory action

Due to the high concentration of flavonoids (components responsible for the pigmentation of flowers and fruits), and their functional action, turmeric can perform anti-inflammatory activities, helping to strengthen immunity.

With a more efficient immune system, the body is able to prevent infections and better fight invading agents.

In addition, those chronic inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis , can be alleviated, as it is possible that the pain and limitations will decrease.

How to use real saffron?

The price is not always affordable, but the paella recipes, some risottos, soups and typical European dishes get a special touch when added to the spice. Among foods that best match saffron are:

  • Rice;
  • Potatoes;
  • Mushrooms;
  • Chicken;
  • Seafood;
  • Fish.

In Indian cuisine, real saffron makes up mainly creamy desserts, such as rice pudding and ice cream.

For use, the ideal is to soak the product in water, milk or juices for 15 minutes, so that it releases the color and aroma.

In addition, the product is sensitive to heat, it is more recommended to divide the amount into two portions: placing 1 part at the beginning of cooking (to release the flavor) and one at the end (to give the dish aroma).

Side effects of true turmeric

The spice can have some side effects, but usually associated with overconsumption – which is quite difficult, as soon as it is necessary to ingest approximately 5g of saffron to exceed the maximum dosage.

In general, symptoms such as cardiac arrhythmias, nausea, palpitations, cold sweat, dizziness , weakness and mental confusion are observed .

Does real saffron lose weight?

The use of real turmeric for weight loss is less common than that of turmeric. But it is believed that regular consumption of the spice can reduce appetite and the desire to eat.

Another factor that can help with weight reduction is emotional control. As saffron has properties that fight depression and anxiety, it is easier to follow a balanced diet, avoiding exaggeration because of emotional factors.

Recipes with real saffron

Below you will find 2 recipes that have traditionally saffron as an ingredient:

Typically Spanish Paella

The ingredients of paella are:

  • 1 kg of bomb or senia type rice;
  • 1 large diced onion;
  • 6 sliced ​​garlic cloves;
  • 1 sliced ​​leek;
  • 300 grams of peas;
  • 1 medium diced carrot;
  • 2 diced medium tomatoes;
  • 1 small yellow pepper, diced;
  • 1 small green pepper, diced;
  • 1/2 diced small red pepper;
  • 300g diced chicken;
  • 300g of diced white hake;
  • 100g of squid in rings;
  • 100g of shrimp;
  • 100g of pork sausage;
  • 8 units of mussels;
  • 1 glass of olive oil;
  • Rosemary branches.

Sauté the sausage over medium heat until the meat releases a lot of fat. Add the chicken and saute until golden. Add the chopped onion, peppers, pepper and leeks.

Drizzle with olive oil and stir until the ingredients begin to wilt slightly. Add the peas, tomatoes and fish, mixing so that the ingredients are incorporated into the seasonings.

Make a kind of hole in the middle, dividing the mixture in two (leaving a kind of passage in the middle of the pan). Add the rice in this open space and lower the heat. Add more oil (about 2 tablespoons) and add the hot water.

Mix the ingredients until they mix well and add the rest of the ingredients: rosemary , squid and mussels. Add the prawns and mussels and let the rest of the liquid evaporate.

Serve garnished with prawns.

Mushroom and saffron risotto

You will need:

  • 2 chopped garlic cloves;
  • Salt to taste;
  • 400g de cogumelos shitakes, shimeji ou Paris;
  • Black pepper to taste;
  • 1 chopped onion;
  • 300g of tree rice;
  • 1 liter of broth;
  • 150mL of dry white wine;
  • 50g of grated parmesan;
  • 1 pinch of turmeric powder or in stigmas;
  • 1 spoon of olive oil;
  • 1 spoon of unsalted butter.

Cut the mushrooms into thin slices and sauté with olive oil. Add onion and garlic. Add salt, pepper and set aside.

In a saucepan, add the onion and sauté in butter. Put the rice and let it fry for about 1 minutes. Add the rice and stir well.

Then add the wine and stir to avoid sticking to the pan. When all the liquid has evaporated, add the saffron, mix and gradually add the hot broth.

The ideal is to add about 1 cup and let it evaporate. Only when all the liquid has dried, add another cup of broth. When the stock is over, add the mushrooms and finish with the cheese.

How much does it cost and where to find real saffron?

Finding the real saffron is not always an easy task, and there are two reasons for this: its origin and production, which make marketing not very profitable; and also the originality of the product.

It may sound redundant to speak of the truth of true saffron, but the truth is that the gold threads are one of the most counterfeited spices in the world.

Just know the value to understand this ranking: from approximately R $ 5 a gram – which results in R $ 5,000 a kilo. This is if the origin of the product is Iran or Greece, for example.

For those who want the product from Spanish lands, it may be necessary to pay up to R $ 70 thousand per kilo – that is, R $ 70 per gram.

Horse hair, corn hair and even shredded paper have already been used to adulterate saffron. That’s when talking about fresh produce.

The powder version is more easily adulterated, and even synthetic dyes, such as tartrazine, have already been used in counterfeiting.

In general, you can find it in stores specializing in spices and spices, houses of imported products and direct (international) purchases over the internet.

How to identify true saffron?

The first tip is to be suspicious of prices well below the average value. Whether in powder or in strands, saffron is difficult, in fact true, it costs less than R $ 70 a gram.

For those who are going to invest in the spice and found a reliable place to purchase, some tips for purchasing the good quality product are:

  • Assess the structure of the wires and if they are intact. It applies to both ends;
  • Taste the powder, which must be a mixture of bitter and sweet at the same time;
  • When tasting, check the intensity too, as the original is strong and intense.

If buying saffron in strands, another test is to add a little warm water over them.

In a few seconds the aroma is exhaled intensely – for the good smells, the product has a floral and fruity smell, with sweet tones of honey. The water also acquires color, turning orange.

Differences between true saffron and turmeric (turmeric)

Below you will find the main differences between real saffron and turmeric:

Turmeric (turmeric) has the following properties:

  • Rich in curcumin;
  • Sold in fresh rhizome (root) and powder;
  • More intense flavor and aroma, close to ginger;
  • Culinary and medicinal use (tea and capsules);
  • Recommended daily dose of up to 10g;
  • It costs on average 90 reais.

True saffron has:

  • Rich in crocina, crocetina e safranal;
  • Sold in dry threads and powder;
  • Softer flavor and aroma, floral and fruity;
  • Essentially culinary use;
  • Recommended daily dose of up to 5g;
  • It costs up to 70 thousand reais.

Common questions

How to use turmeric powder?

When it comes to turmeric powder, it is usually about turmeric. Its commercialization is quite in this presentation, mainly due to the ease of its use.

For the powdered product, the versatility is great, and it can be used to give flavor to the preparation of cooked or raw dishes, whether solid or liquid, such as broths.

What is saffron tea for?

Saffron tea can bring numerous benefits, being indicated to strengthen the body. Among the possible benefits are weight loss, strengthened immunity, anti-inflammatory action, improved circulation, antioxidant action and reduced blood glucose levels.

How to use fresh or fresh saffron?

Fresh turmeric is similar to ginger and can be used by grating it directly on food or cutting it into pieces that can be cooked together and then removed from the food.

Does turmeric increase platelets?

Platelets are components of the blood that need to be in adequate amounts for a person to be healthy. There are some suggestions that turmeric can increase the amount of platelets, making it ideal for those with anemia.

However, patients with low rates of blood substances, such as platelets, should seek medical advice and follow appropriate treatment. Saffron should only be a complement to the treatment.


Various foods and spices have gained prominence – although they have been used in medicine and cooking for centuries.

Saffron – both real and earthly – are examples of spices that conquer those who like gastronomy and those who want more health in the dish.

But, despite the similar name, the products are quite different and should not be confused or intentionally exchanged – with the risk of affecting the taste and aroma of the dishes.

So, keeping an eye on the characteristics and origin of the products, and following the Healthy Minute helps bring more health to the table!

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