Saffron

invigorating for the mind and body, effective against pain, treating infections, and stimulating the heart rate. In Ireland, saffron is still used on the cradles of newborns, so that they grow healthy and strong. In Italy, saffron is thrown on newlyweds, as it is an aphrodisiac and promotes fertility. The Arabs, Berbers and Persians gave saffron as a wedding gift to promote fertility. The Romans appreciated the aroma of saffron and considered it to be "gently soothing", saffron was often compared by poets to the soft colors of sunset or sunrise.