How to Use Kesar in Daily Routine?: From Milk to Skincare

There’s something deeply comforting about kesar. Just the mention of it brings to mind a warm glass of saffron milk before bed, the gentle glow it lends to festive sweets, or that secret face pack your nani swore by. For me, kesar (saffron) isn’t just an ingredient—it’s a ritual. One that’s steeped in tradition, but also surprisingly easy to adapt into our busy, modern routines.

Let me take you through how I’ve woven kesar into my everyday life—not just for the taste, but for the wellness and beauty benefits too. And no, it’s not about fancy spa days or extravagant recipes. These are real-life, tried-and-tested ways that even the busiest of us can follow.

Kesar Milk – More Than Just a Bedtime Drink

Let’s start with the obvious: kesar doodh. Yes, it’s soothing. Yes, it helps you sleep better. But what people don’t always realize is that timing and infusion matter.

Here’s how I do it:

My Go-To Nighttime Kesar Milk

• Warm a cup of milk (dairy or almond milk)
• Soak 3–4 strands of Chukde Kesar in 1 tbsp of warm water for at least 10 minutes. This “wakes up” the saffron.
• Add the infused kesar to the milk along with a pinch of cardamom.
• Optional: A touch of jaggery or honey if you like it sweet.

Expert Tip: Never toss dry saffron straight into milk—it won’t release its full flavor or color. Activation through soaking is key!

Personal Note: I started giving this to my mom daily when she was having trouble sleeping. Within a week, she said she was sleeping “like in the old days.” That’s how I knew—this wasn’t just tradition. It worked.

Saffron in Cooking – Beyond Biryani and Kheer

Kesar has long been the soul of Indian desserts. But here’s a twist: I often add a strand or two to my breakfast porridge or chia pudding. Sounds odd? Trust me—it’s a game-changer.

Try This: Kesar Overnight Oats

• ½ cup oats + 1 cup milk of choice
• 3 soaked Chukde Kesar strands
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• A few chopped dates or figs
• Leave overnight, stir in the morning, and top with crushed almonds.

It’s quick, nutritious, and has that luxury feel on an ordinary morning. Plus, the kesar gives it that subtle earthy aroma that makes it taste like a treat—even when it’s healthy.

Kesar for Skincare – Glowing Skin, the Natural Way

Growing up, every woman in my family had a kesar face mask recipe. I didn’t believe in them until my own skin went rogue during a stressful work stint. Breakouts, dullness—you name it. Then I tried nani’s recipe, with a modern twist.

My Sunday Glow Mask:

• Soak 4–5 Chukde Kesar strands in 1 tsp rose water for 20 minutes
• Mix with 1 tbsp raw honey + a pinch of chukde turmeric powder
• Apply and leave for 10–15 minutes. Wash with lukewarm water.

What it does: Brightens, calms inflammation, and gives a soft glow.

Real Talk: You won’t see results overnight. But do this once a week for a month, and you’ll see your skin say thank you.

Wellness Shot – The Daily Boost You Didn’t Know You Needed

I stumbled onto this one during the peak of the pandemic. I was experimenting with immunity boosters, and kesar in warm water with a pinch of black pepper became my go-to 6 AM drink. It’s soothing, gently energizing, and loaded with antioxidants.

Morning Kesar Elixir:

• 3–4 soaked Chukde Kesar strands
• A pinch of crushed black pepper
• A few drops of lemon
• Warm water (not hot)
• Stir and sip slowly on an empty stomach.

Why Chukde Kesar?

Here’s the deal: Kesar is delicate, and quality makes all the difference. I've tried many over the years, and the color payoff, aroma, and originality of Chukde Kesar is honestly leagues ahead.

What I love:

• Deep, vibrant red strands (not dull orange or yellow)
• Strong aroma that lingers in milk, sweets, or skincare
• Ethically sourced, with a clean, transparent cleaning process

I always say: If you’re going to use something this powerful in small doses, go for the real deal.

FAQs

Q1. Can I consume kesar every day?

Yes! 3–5 strands a day are safe and beneficial. Whether through milk, food, or drinks, moderation is key.

Q2. Is kesar safe during pregnancy?

Yes, in small amounts (2–3 strands/day). In fact, it’s traditionally used to help digestion and mood. But always consult your doctor first.

For more detail, read this article: https://www.lifecell.in/blog/health-and-nutrition/benefits-and-side-effects-of-saffron-during-pregnancy

Q3. Can I use kesar directly on my face?

You can, but always soak it first and mix it with a base like honey, curd, or aloe vera to avoid irritation.

Q4. How to know if my kesar is original?

Genuine saffron releases a golden hue when soaked. Fake ones turn red immediately or feel oily. Chukde Kesar passes all cleaning tests—plus, you’ll smell the difference.

Q5. How long should I soak kesar before using it?

At least 10–15 minutes in warm (not boiling) liquid. For skincare, rose water works beautifully.

Final Thoughts

In a world full of supplements and serums, sometimes it’s the simplest things—like a few strands of saffron—that quietly do wonders. From a better night’s sleep to glowing skin, kesar can be your secret ritual, stitched into your daily routine in easy, beautiful ways.

So, whether you’re sipping, cooking, or glowing—let kesar work its magic, slowly but surely.