ayurveda notes
Asparagus Saffron Risotto with Lemon works best as an early summer blood purifier. Both saffron and asparagus are diuretics with noted blood purifying properties. By late summer, asparagus and saffron will assist in releasing the buildup of pitta but Vata types should take care to stay hydrated after eating. After a long summer of sweating, August is an important month to guard against fluid loss. This can be achieved by doubling the quantity of salt or drinking water 2-3hrs after eating to replenish fluid loss.
Saffron brings a healthy glow to the body. It is a nourishing purifier that invigorates and moves the blood while cooling it. Saffron's circulatory properties are useful in pitta disorders with blood stagnation, including inflammation, arthritis, acne, and hepatitis. It improves eyesight and enhances digestion. Saffron's blood moving qualities are particulary desirable among herbs that stimulate the release of oxytocin, the "tend and befriend" hormone, supporting saffron's use as an aphrodisiac when combined with milk and ghee. Click here for more information on
saffron.
Asparagus is cooling, demulcent and astringent. Demulcent means that asparagus has a slightly 'slimy' effect, which serves to coat and soothe mucus membranes. These qualities altogether pacify pitta dosha and soothe Vata. Asparagus is high in potassium and saponins. Both are diuretics good for Kapha, making asparagus tridoshic. An acidic substance called asparagine produces an acetone smell in the urine after eating. It's astringency helps tone lax blood vessels. Asparagus is also easy to digest. As a cooling diuretic, like saffron, it purifies the blood.