Tag: Gardenia

Crocin is a natural, water-soluble carotenoid pigment found primarily in two plant sources globally. The most expensive spice in the world, saffron, is one of the most prominent spices that contain crocin, giving it its characteristic red color and a golden-yellow hue when used in cooking.

For centuries, the fruit of the *Gardenia jasminoides* plant has been a staple in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), valued for its ability to clear heat and calm the mind. Today, modern research confirms many of the uses of this plant, offering insights into what are the health benefits of gardenia, spanning potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neurological support.

The gardenia plant, known for its glossy leaves and intoxicatingly fragrant white flowers, is a member of the botanical family Rubiaceae, the same family that includes the coffee plant. However, despite this shared family tie, the answer to whether gardenia contains caffeine is a resounding no.

The use of gardenia fruit and flowers in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) dates back centuries, where it was primarily used to treat conditions involving 'heat' and 'dampness' in the body. Today, modern research and traditional practices alike point to a range of potential health benefits associated with this fragrant plant.

Accounting for up to 30% of saffron's dry matter, crocins are the water-soluble carotenoid pigments that give the spice its prized, reddish-yellow hue. While saffron is the most famous food for crocins, it is not the only source of this bioactive compound.

Crocin is a naturally occurring water-soluble carotenoid and potent antioxidant that provides the vibrant red-to-yellow color in certain plants. This bioactive compound is prominently sourced from the dried stigmas of the saffron crocus and the fruits of the gardenia plant.