Significance of Saffron

Saffron is a highly valued spice derived from the stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower, widely recognized for its unique flavor, fragrance, and vibrant color. In various cultural contexts, such as Tibetan Buddhism and Vaishnavism, Saffron is used in rituals symbolizing purity and sanctity. It is also noted for its medicinal benefits, including skin brightening and mood elevation. Additionally, Saffron serves as a natural dye and is utilized in culinary applications, highlighting its diverse significance.

Synonyms: Crocus sativus, Spice, Seasoning, Flavoring, Yellow gold, Condiment

In Dutch: Saffraan; In German: Safran; In Finnish: Sahrami; In Spanish: Azafrán

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Saffron'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, saffron symbolizes a coloring agent from the saffron crocus, illustrating concepts of Conjunction through its use in dyeing cloth, highlighting transformation and interconnectedness within existence.

Significance in Tibetan Buddhism (Vajrayana or tantric Buddhism):
Tibetan Buddhism Books

From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]

(1) A coloring agent derived from the saffron crocus, mentioned in the text as an example of a substance used to color cloth, relating to the concept of Conjunction.[1]

Tibetan Buddhism includes schools such as Nyingma, Kadampa, Kagyu and Gelug. Their primary canon of literature is divided in two broad categories: The Kangyur, which consists of Buddha’s words, and the Tengyur, which includes commentaries from various sources. Esotericism and tantra techniques (vajrayana) are collected indepently.

Hindu concept of 'Saffron'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, saffron symbolizes purity and sanctity, utilized in rituals, beauty enhancement, and meditation. It represents divine qualities, abundance, and desirability, linking to both ceremonial practices and metaphoric expressions of beauty.

Significance in Rasashastra (chemistry and alchemy):
Rasashastra Books

From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances

(1) A spice used in some mixtures applied to iron during heating.[2] (2) A substance that improves beauty when taken with incinerated gold.[3]

Rasashastra is an important branch of Ayurveda, specialising in chemical interactions with herbs, metals and minerals. Some texts combine yogic and tantric practices with various alchemical operations. The ultimate goal of Rasashastra is not only to preserve and prolong life, but also to bestow wealth upon humankind.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Garuda Purana

(1) A spice which yields a particular color referenced in relation to the appearance of some gems.[4]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Garga Samhita (English)

(1) A highly valued spice derived from the flower of Crocus sativus, often used for its color and fragrance in rituals.[5]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

The concept of Saffron in local and regional sources

History Books

Saffron is a highly valued spice known for its rich flavors and fragrances, playing a significant role in the cuisine of the Emerald Kingdom, highlighting its cultural and culinary importance in the region.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) A highly prized spice associated with rich flavors and fragrances in the food of the Emerald Kingdom.[6]

The concept of Saffron in scientific sources

Science Books

Saffron is a spice celebrated for its mood-elevating properties, often utilized in Ayurvedic medicine to alleviate depression and enhance overall well-being, highlighting its significant health benefits in traditional practices.

Significance in Scientific journals, articles, etc.:

From: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences

(1) Saffron is derived from the Crocus sativus L. flower and is used in traditional medicine, as a spice, and as a coloring agent, with various components like safranal, crocetin, and crocin.[7]

This section includes scientific research in the field of healthcare, often involving traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha and Holistic health. It includes papers from scientific journals classified as either original, clinical or experimental research, review articles or case reports.