The benefits of saffron are numerous. It has been known since Antiquity as a remedy against many pains and diseases. Without claiming to be a universal medicine, it constitutes a natural solution to many current health problems. Thanks to its active ingredients and anti-oxidant properties, saffron is not only used in the pharmaceutical industry but also in cosmetics. The four main biologically active compounds in saffron are crocin, crocetin, picrocrocin and safranal. Crocin and crocetin are carotenoids that give saffron its bright yellow-orange-red color. Picrocrocine is responsible for saffron’s slightly bitter flavor and taste. Finally, safranal is a volatile compound that gives saffron its particular aroma.