The History Of Saffron In Persia

Throughout the rise and fall of governments, the formation of history and cultures, spices have been with humans and their age can be considered the same as the age of human civilizations. Saffron, this precious and precious spice, has been with different cultures and governments for a long time. In the following lines, we tell you about the history of saffron production in Iran and the world.

History of saffron in Iran

The origin of all kinds of spices in the world is the Middle East and East Asia. Several thousand years ago, the Silk Road was one of the main trade routes for spices in ancient history, and after the discovery of the sea route, spices from the Middle East and East Asia were imported to Europe and America. Iran, India and China were the main centers of spice production in the ancient world. One of the popular spices of Iran, which has been traded for thousands of years, is called saffron. The consumption of saffron has been popular in all parts of the world since long ago and the benefits of saffron have not been hidden from anyone.

In ancient Iran, saffron flower grew wild. The history of saffron in Iran can be traced back to the Achaemenid Empire. Ancient Iranians at that time used saffron to flavor their food. Even in the description of the biography of Darius Achaemenes, saffron is mentioned, that this Iranian king used saffron together with milk to perfume his body.

The first export of saffron in Iran can be attributed to the Parthian period. Probably the first time saffron was taken to China, Greece and Rome among the Parthians. In the past, doctors used the properties of saffron for treatment. Saffron color has also been used as ink for writing commands and dyeing fabrics.

In general, the age and history of saffron production in Iran can be considered about 3 thousand years. The first cultivation of saffron became popular in the Sassanid period and from the city of Qom. Some historical sources mention that saffron is 5 thousand years old in Persia. In a botanical book belonging to the Assyrian era, it is written about saffron flower. Also, in one of the ancient paintings in the northwest of Iran, it is clear that saffron color was used for coloring.