Kashmiri Mongra Saffron vs. Lacha & Zarda – Understanding the Grades of Saffron

Saffron(Kesar) usually consists of three varieties: “Kashmiri Mongra Saffron” or Grade A, “Lacha” or Grade B, and “Zarda” or Grade C. It is crucial to understand the difference between the three varieties to avoid being cheated while purchasing saffron. Valley Saffron only deals in Grade A Saffron.

Grade A or “Kashmiri Mongra Saffron”

Grade A or Mongra Saffron – Kashmiri Mongra Saffron is the most premium variety of Saffron. It is deep red in color and only consists of the red part. Mongra Saffron does not carry any part of the style (no yellow or orange part). Mongra Saffron is the most expensive Variety of Saffron with a stronger flavor and rich aroma. Kashmiri Mongra Saffron generally costs around 4-6 lakh per kilogram or 400-600 rupees per gram (depending on the market fluctuation and current year)

Grade B or “Lacha”

 Lacha Saffron is still a good quality but not as premium as Mongra. Lacha Saffron consists usually of Style i.e the yellow part and may also consist of stigma (the red part). Price of Grade B Saffron is lower compared to Grade A.

Grade C or  “Zarda”

Zarda saffron is the lowest quality as it consists only of yellow or orange style. Zarda Saffron does not carry red part and is therefore the cheapest quality saffron.

Advantages of Buying Saffron Kesar(saffron) in Small Quantities

Purchasing saffron in small quantities allows you to consume kesar at its peak freshness (although proper storage of saffron extends its shelf life for 1-3 years). Valley Saffron offers 5-gram kesar at the best price in airtight and unbreakable jars, allowing you to store kesar without compromising its quality and fragrant aroma.
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Health benefits of Kashmiri Mongra Saffron

Saffron(Kesar) is revered across the globe for the many health advantages it offers. Some of the scientifically supported health benefits are:

Antidepressant Benefits

Kashmiri Mongra Saffron(Kesar) is known to help depression thanks to its antidepressant properties, which boost serotonin levels and promote calmness and happiness. 1 2

Supports Heart Health

Research studies suggest that kesar may help in improving heart health due to the presence of crocetin 3

Improves Digestive Health

Saffron(Kesar) possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the digestive tract and enhance blood flow to the stomach’s arteries, leading to improved digestion.

Blood Pressure Regulation

Kashmiri Mongra Saffron(Kesar) is well known to regulate blood pressure due to the presence of potassium and other antioxidant properties like crocin, picrocrocin, safranal, and crocetin 4.

Improves Skin Health

Saffron(Kesar) may improve skin health due to the presence of antioxidant properties, adding a natural glow to skin.

Improves Sleep Quality

Kesar helps in improving sleep quality due to the presence of compounds such as safranal and crocin present in it 5.