YourDailyVeda logoYourDailyVedaRooted in Nature, brewed for life
Herb library

Kesar / Kumkuma (Saffron)

Saffron

Crocus sativus

Kesar — a few threads used for mood, complexion and warmth in the winter months.

Saffron crocus · Herb · Parts: Stigma (thread)

Taste (rasa)
Pungent, Bitter, Sweet
Energy (virya)
Heating
Balances
Vata, Kapha, Pitta

What it is used for

Benefits

  • Studied for low mood and premenstrual irritability
  • Traditionally used to brighten complexion and even skin tone
  • Warming tonic taken in milk during pregnancy in Indian households

How it has been used

Traditional uses & benefits

Kumkuma is treated as a precious varnya (complexion-improving) and hridya (heart-gladdening) drug — used in tiny amounts, always carried in milk, ghee or honey.

Traditional uses

  • Low mood, grief and premenstrual irritability
  • Complexion, pigmentation and dull skin
  • Warming tonic in winter and in traditional pregnancy milk

Practical guidance

  1. 1Soak the threads in a little warm liquid for 10 minutes so the colour and aroma release fully.
  2. 2More is not better — 4–5 threads is a dose; grams are toxic.
  3. 3Buy whole threads, never powder, which is routinely adulterated.

How much

Dosage

A few threads (about 30 mg) daily; do not exceed 1.5 g a day.

How to take it

Preparation & usage

Kesar milk

Steep 4-5 threads in warm milk with a pinch of cardamom.

Evening

Saffron water

Soak threads in a spoon of warm water for 10 minutes, then add to food.

Any time

Read this first

Precautions

  • High doses (above 5 g) are toxic and can cause bleeding
  • Avoid medicinal doses in pregnancy without a practitioner's guidance
  • May add to the effect of antidepressants and blood thinners

Where this comes from

Sources

Used forSleep & StressSkin & HairEnergy & Focus

Where to buy

Shop this remedy

Affiliate links: we may earn a small commission if you buy through these shops, at no extra cost to you. We do not review or endorse any product. Read the full disclosure

If you buy, look for a batch-tested product that states the botanical name and tests for heavy metals. Check with your doctor first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding.