Crocus sativus
Saffron is harvested from the flowers of the saffron crocus. Each flower has three stigmas, the threads of saffron. It is the most expensive spice in the world. Some sites claim that saffron is $200-300 per ounce. I've seen it at $90 an ounce, but this may not have been the good stuff. It was used to dye the robes of royalty and was once a symbol of status and wealth.
Homer referred often to the Goddess Eos as saffron-robed.
Saffron Magick
Saffron is associated with Eos and with Venus and Aphrodite. It is also associated with the Sun and Mars, Leo and fire. For centuries, saffron has been associated with wealth, power and rarity. This makes it an excellent offering for any deity and is a traditional ingredient in crescent moon cakes made in honor of the Phoenician Goddess Ashtoreth.
Saffron is also useful in spells aimed toward wealth and recognition, to bring strength. It can be infused into holy water and burned in censors for various rituals, but be aware that it can stain.
Saffron is also purported to be an aphrodisiac. Hot date? Two words: Indian food.
An infusion of saffron is also said to help enhance psychic abilities.
Rinsing bed linens in an infusion of saffron (or possibly a whole crocus) is said to help bring strength to the body while one sleeps.
Saffron in Healing
Saffron has been used for treating a variety of illnesses including measles, bladder, kidney and liver disorders and diabetes. Modern studies show that it may be useful in treating cancer by helping to fight tumors and easing the discomfort associated with chemotherapy. It has also been used to treat recovering alcoholics and is said to help repair damage done to the brain by alcoholism. An infusion of saffron is said to help relieve depression.
See Also
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Do you have a question or something to add?
Can we drink saffron tea as energy booster n relaxation
You could add a little bit to tea, but I personally feel like saffron straight tastes a bit like soap. Remember that your dosage would be quite small, just a few threads.