Kesar (केसर), also known as Saffron, is a luxurious and time-honored Ayurvedic herb cherished for its complexion-enhancing, anti-pigmentation, and rejuvenative properties. Derived from the delicate stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower, Kesar is one of the most expensive herbs in the world—and with good reason. In Ayurveda, it is classified as a Varnya dravya (skin-brightening agent) and Rasayana (rejuvenative), making it a go-to herb for glowing skin, reducing blemishes, and enhancing youthful radiance.
Traditionally, Kesar has been used both internally and externally to nourish the skin, even out complexion, calm inflammation, and restore vitality. Its association with royalty and beauty rituals dates back thousands of years, making it a sacred herb in Ayurvedic cosmeceuticals and skin rejuvenation therapies.
Botanical Profile
- Botanical Name: Crocus sativus
- Common Names: Kesar, Saffron, Kumkuma
- Family: Iridaceae
- Part Used: Stigma of the flower
- Rasa (Taste): Tikta (bitter), Madhura (sweet)
- Virya (Potency): Ushna (hot)
- Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Madhura (sweet)
- Guna (Qualities): Laghu (light), Snigdha (unctuous)
- Doshic Action: Balances all three doshas, especially Vata and Kapha; use moderately in high Pitta
Skin Benefits of Kesar
1. Brightens Complexion & Enhances Glow
Kesar is one of the best-known Varnya herbs in Ayurveda that nourishes the skin from within and enhances natural radiance and fairness. It is a key ingredient in bridal beauty rituals and classical skin formulations.
2. Reduces Hyperpigmentation & Dark Spots
Rich in antioxidants like crocin and safranal, Kesar helps fade pigmentation, melasma, sun spots, and acne scars by improving cell turnover and blood circulation.
3. Rejuvenates Aging Skin
As a Rasayana, Kesar delays signs of aging such as fine lines, dullness, and sagging, making it a preferred ingredient in anti-aging face oils, creams, and serums.
4. Soothes Inflammatory Skin Issues
Kesar has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, helpful for Pitta-related skin issues like sensitivity, rashes, and post-acne redness.
5. Hydrates and Softens Skin
Its snigdha (unctuous) quality locks in moisture, promotes softness, and supports skin barrier repair, especially in dry, Vata-dominant skin types.
Classical References
- Charaka Samhita: Lists Kesar as a Varnya dravya and Medhya Rasayana, beneficial for both skin and mind
- Ashtanga Hridaya: Notes its use in improving skin tone, wound healing, and calming inflammatory skin diseases
- Bhavaprakasha Nighantu: Praises Kesar for enhancing beauty, vitality, and strength, especially when combined with milk, ghee, or rose water
External Applications in Skincare
- Complexion-Boosting Face Pack: Kesar threads soaked in raw milk + sandalwood paste
- Brightening Ubtan: Kesar + besan (gram flour) + rose petals + turmeric
- Anti-Pigmentation Serum: Kesar infused in Kumkumadi Taila for daily night use
- Under-Eye Treatment: Kesar + aloe vera + almond oil applied gently
- Bridal Glow Ritual: Kesar + saffron water spritzed on face before applying face oil
Internal Use in Ayurveda
- Kesar Milk (Kumkuma Dugdha): 2–3 strands infused in warm milk – improves skin tone and vitality from within
- Kesar with Ghee: Enhances Ojas, immunity, and twak prasadana (skin luster)
- Ayurvedic Formulations: Found in Kumkumadi Taila, Chandanadi Varti, and skin Rasayana formulas
- Female Wellness Tonic: Kesar is used in herbal jams (like Phala Ghrita) to support skin, fertility, and hormonal glow
Ayurvedic Remedies Using Kesar
| Skin Concern | Home Remedy Idea |
|---|---|
| Dull Complexion | Kesar soaked in milk + turmeric + sandalwood mask |
| Pigmentation & Scars | Kesar + manjishtha + licorice face pack |
| Bridal Radiance | Kesar-infused ghee + saffron milk + rose water toner |
| Aging Skin | Kesar + almond + gotu kola oil blend (as serum or massage) |
| Under-Eye Circles | Kesar + aloe + cold rose water compress |
Related Terms
- Kumkumadi Taila
- Manjishtha
- Varnya Dravyas
- Pitta Skin
- Rasayana Herbs for Skin
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can Kesar be applied directly on the face?
Yes, but soak in warm water or milk for a few minutes to release its actives before applying. Always use pure saffron, not synthetic imitations.
Q2: Is Kesar good for oily or acne-prone skin?
Yes, but use in moderation. Blend with cooling, anti-acne herbs like sandalwood, neem, or rose to balance Pitta-Kapha dosha.
Q3: How long does it take to see results on the skin?
Visible improvements may appear in 2–4 weeks with regular internal and external use of Kesar. It’s best used as part of a consistent Ayurvedic skincare routine.
Q4: Is saffron safe for all dosha types?
Yes, but in small, balanced quantities. Those with high Pitta should use it with cooling carriers like milk, rose, or ghee.