Saffron is a very costly spice, used to flavor and color food. The spice is actually the dried stigma (tiny threadlike strands) of the Crocus Sativus Linneaus, a member of the iris family. Saffron is largely cultivated and harvested by hand. Due to the amount of labor involved in harvesting, saffron is considered one of the world's most expensive spices. 

Currently saffron is commercially produced in Iran, Greece, Morocco, Spain, India and Italy. Iran is the most important producer of saffron both, in terms of volume and quality, and Spain being the largest importer of the spice.

Beneficial effects of saffron on type 2 diabetic patients

A study published in the Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism has looked at the beneficial effects of saffron on type 2 diabetic patients. Author reported that saffron hydro-alcoholic extract may improve renal protection in saffron treated type 2 diabetic patients by itself, the protective effect was not significant when compared with placebo. Saffron effects on liver function were not also significant in this intervention compared with placebo. 

Other health benefits

It also helps form tissues, bones, and sex hormones. Vitamin C is an infection fighter; iron purifies your blood; and the vitamin B6 content helps form red blood cells and assures nerves will function as they should. Potassium helps balance fluids in cells, which, if low, can cause painful muscle cramps. Women use saffron for menstrual cramps and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Men use it to prevent early orgasm (premature ejaculation) and infertility. Although use of saffron is safe, but some possible side effects include dry mouth, anxiety, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, change in appetite, and headache. Allergic reactions can occur in some people.

Source: food.ndtv.com, foodfacts.mercola.com, webmd.com, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jnim.2017.07.002