Saffron from Kashmir is definitely, one of the most precious and expensive spices in the world. It’s not uncommon to spend up to four (even five!) digit price tags for a mere pound of the crocus. That’s because the threadlike pistols of which there are three per flower are separated by hand, one by one.

Saffron which is called Kesar in Sanskrit has for centuries is to believe to have very effective medicinal if not magical properties, and has been used by Ayurveda for beauty enhancement and Skincare treatments for 1000s of years. People face various skin issues like scars, acne, uneven skin tones, dull complexion, discolored patches, etc. With the help of saffron, one can easily get rid of most of these skin issues and get flawless skin. 

From fading away blemishes to giving radiant skin, Kashmiri Saffron has an array of beauty benefits. - 

1. It has plenty of flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin,) and phenolic compounds (tannic acid, caffeic acid, and ferulic acid) which help to its photoprotective and moisturizing effects.
2. It has a unique chemical composition, which contributed to whitening the skin tone and enhancing the complexion naturally. 
3. The anti-inflammatory properties of saffron are helpful in keeping the skin healthy by averting issues like irritation, rashes, and swelling 
4. It has anti-inflammatory properties which help in reducing the acne and blemishes on the skin. 
5. Active carotenoids in saffron may keep the skin healthy and youthful with their antioxidant and antinociceptive properties.

What does the research say about Saffron in beauty and skincare products?

 Today's science has backed up medicinal claims in clinical trials showing the proven effectiveness of saffron in treating numerous conditions including anti-depression, anti-inflammation, anti-convulsion, as well as anti-tumor treatment. 

Saffron is rich in minerals and vitamins which include Vitamin A, Vitamin B2, Riboflavin, Vitamin B3 – Niacin, Vitamin C, Folic Acid, Calcium, Magnesium, Manganese, Phosphorus, Selenium, Zinc, Carotenoids and Crocin, all active constituents of delivering positive health benefits to skin and hair. Traditionally, saffron is used in treatments to lighten skin tone, reduce dark circles below the eyes, and tackle light pigments, in addition to combatting acne. It is also believed that the Crocin in Saffron acts as an activator for DNA excision repair enzymes.

Two clinical trials on the utilization of saffron as an antipruritic and complexion promoter for the skin, both confirmed that saffron was more efficient than the placebo, as stated in Clinical Applications of Saffron (Crocus Sativus) and its Constituents: A Review. These trials also provide reasons to believe that saffron assists to provide protection against UV rays from the sun. In the study conducted, a cream that contained 4% saffron extracts appeared to have a similar UV protection factor (SPF) to that of an 8% homosalate solution, with saffron outperforming the latter. Furthermore, the methanolic extract of Crocus Sativus which includes Safranal, reportedly possesses radical scavenging activity, suggesting its use as a cosmetic to treat age-related disorders.

The shining and de-pigmentation effect of saffron is probably attributed to the high levels of Crocin and Crocetin which serve as an antioxidant. The extracted carotenoids from saffron as an antioxidant prevent many common diseases by taming harmful molecules known as free radicals. According to a study, Saffron has significant depigmentation and antie.

Is Saffron really good for the face? 

As discussed earlier, saffron has immense beauty benefits and as it is so gentle on the skin, it is a perfect companion for face skincare products which helps to repair cell damage and reduce the signs of aging. As Saffron helps in reducing pigmentation, brown spots, and other skin blemishes, it adds to the charm and youthful glow on the face and it demises the fine lines and fine wrinkles which in long run gives a radiance to the face. 

Aroha Oils Products using Kashmiri Saffron  

Rani - Face Serum by Aroha Oils

Our Prized face serum- Rani is formulated with pistols of Saffron extracted from the high altitudes of Mountains in Kashmir once per year, this carefully formulated oil can help reduce the appearance of 11 signs of aging including dullness, sagging, fine lines, firmness, elasticity, wrinkles, redness and so on. 

A rich concentration of Kashmiri saffron along with other incredible herbs like Blue Lotus, Manjista, and Red sandalwood makes a potent oil that helps in natural processes for skin that looks revitalized, firmer, and fuller. Diminishes the appearance of fine lines, age spots, and visible signs of aging and balances and softens skin texture for a visible glow, It also provides rich moisture and enhances elasticity, and reduces the appearance of wrinkles and dryness. 

Our Rani glowing anti-aging face oil is to be used at night as a part of the nightly ritual. After your cleansing routine, massage 3-4 drops between your palms, and gently pat in a firm circular motion all over your face, neck, and décolletage. It gets absorbs quickly and you should see results within 15-20 days of regular use. This oil is good for all types of skin types as it acts as a balancing agent. 

Our Rani Face Serum is inspired by the Authentic Ayurveda text of Kumkumadi Oil and is made in the traditional Ayurveda scriptures. One batch of this oil takes anywhere from 90 hours to 110 hours using more than 26 herbs and other ingredients to make this ultra-luxurious and high performing face oil. 

GLOWING ANTI-AGING FACE SERUM

Made from 26 Pure & Rare Herbs including Kashmiri Saffron from the Himalayas. 

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References:

1. Vijaya Bhargava K. Medicinal Uses and Pharmacological Properties of Crocus Sativus Linn (Saffron) 
2. Does Saffron Have Antisolar and Moisturizing Effects? by Shiva Golmohammadzadeh, Mahmoud Reza Jaafari, and Hossein Hosseinzadeh
3. Abdullaev F. Biological properties and medicinal use of saffron (Crocus sativus L.). Acta Hort (ISHS)
4. Akhtar N, Khan HM, Ashraf S, Mohammad IS, Saqib NU, Bashir K. Moisturizing effect of stable cream containing Crocussativus extracts.
5. Moshiri M, Vahabzadeh M, Hosseinzadeh H. Clinical Applications of Saffron (Crocus sativus) and its Constituents: A Review.