bunch saffron

Bunch saffron, also known as “Dasteh” or “whole thread” saffron, is one of the most natural and complete types of saffron. It is obtained from the whole stigmas of the saffron flower (Crocus sativus) and dried as complete threads without separating its parts. Bunch saffron consists of three main parts: the red part (stigma or sargol), the yellow part (style), and the white part (root). Known as the “mother of saffrons,” it retains all the properties of saffron with minimal human intervention in its production process. It is typically tied with white thread to preserve its natural shape.

This product is native to Iran, where over 90% of the world’s saffron is produced, primarily in Razavi Khorasan province (e.g., Torbat Heydariyeh and Qaenat). Due to its high quality, unique aroma, flavor, and more affordable price compared to purer types like Negin or Sargol, bunch saffron is ideal for household use, cooking, and even medicinal purposes.

Benefits and Properties of Bunch Saffron

Bunch saffron is not only a fragrant and colorful spice but also rich in antioxidants, vitamins (such as B12), and active compounds like crocin, safranal, and picrocrocin. Below are some of its key benefits.

Health and Medicinal Benefits

• Improves Heart and Brain Health: Bunch saffron reduces cholesterol, triglycerides, and inflammation, lowering the risk of heart disease. It also acts as a natural antidepressant, improving mild to moderate depression symptoms by regulating dopamine and serotonin levels.
• Powerful Antioxidant: Contains crocin, which protects cells from free radicals and helps prevent cancers (e.g., skin tumors).
• Skin and Hair Health: Effective for treating dryness, itching, and skin blemishes. A saffron mask with milk or licorice reduces hair loss and brightens the skin. It is also used in cosmetics to prevent premature aging.
• Other Benefits: Helps treat colds, coughs, insomnia, anxiety, and even improves vision in the elderly. The yellow and white parts (style and root) also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, used in anticancer and antidepressant medications.

Culinary Benefits

• Natural Color and Aroma: Imparts a golden-yellow color to dishes without the need for artificial dyes. Its aroma (due to safranal) enhances the fragrance of foods.
• Versatile Uses: Perfect for rice dishes, stews, desserts, tea, ice cream, syrups, and even dairy and meat products. In the food industry, it’s used to color beverages, cakes, and canned goods.
• Cost-Effective: Compared to sargol saffron, it has less coloring strength but is more affordable while retaining all properties.

Price of Bunch Saffron

The price of bunch saffron is influenced by several factors. The cultivation region, particularly areas like Razavi Khorasan with suitable soil and climate, plays a significant role in its quality and price. Harvesting and processing methods are also crucial; hand-picking and natural drying without chemicals preserve its aroma and color, increasing demand. The harvest season (autumn) and weather conditions, such as droughts or unexpected rainfall, can affect supply. Additionally, domestic and international market demand, especially in countries like the UAE, Spain, and India, and currency exchange rate fluctuations for exports, are other key factors.

Tips for Buying Bunch Saffron

When purchasing bunch saffron, several important points should be considered. As one of the most natural and authentic types of saffron due to minimal processing, its quality must be carefully evaluated. The red stigmas should be vibrant and glossy, and the white part (root) should not make up a significant portion of the weight, as it has less coloring strength. A strong, natural aroma, absence of moisture or stickiness, and buying from reputable sellers are other critical factors in choosing bunch saffron.