Our Story

The Middle East

I’m from the Middle East. I was born and raised in Iran and also lived for many years in Dubai. I grew up eating a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables and nuts, and have always been surrounded by natural, plant-based medicines.

While these natural products are part of my culture, its most central ingredient is saffron. As a result, I am very passionate about it. It is an amazing spice and has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. It is truly one of nature’s gifts, prized for thousands of years for its culinary and medicinal properties.

The journey I have undertaken has not been without challenges. Throughout the experience, I have gained a deeper appreciation and respect for the history, culture, and the significance of high quality saffron for so many.

Canada and Science in Nature

I met my Canadian partner, Robert, in 2011 when Canada became my new home. With a long career in life sciences, biotechnology, and medical research, he was on his own journey when we met, exploring the medicinal properties of plants in a more disciplined, western manner. He embraced the depth of information and plant history available in my homelands and other parts of the world. Together, we have enjoyed developing deep relationships with the people directly involved with growing and researching these natural products.

There have obviously been cultural differences to adapt to: skates in the desert; the extremes of rain forest temperatures to some of the most arid regions on earth; the cultural and regional sensitivities.

But the “opposites” in our cultures and backgrounds meshed into a wonderful harmony, in both our personal and professional lives and our journey.

It is this harmony that drives our collective focus and passion to bring authentic, evidence-based natural products to our customers.

Healthy Lifestyle – Diet, Exercise, and Relaxation

We firmly believe that nutrition and diet play an important role in our health and longevity. Eating a diet rich in natural, raw, whole foods is proven to reduce the risks of diseases and lead to a sense of well-being.

Most importantly, we must find ways to reduce anxiety and stress, both of which are being proven as the top triggers for illness to take hold within our bodies.

It is crucial to find time to pursue interests away from work to reduce the buildup of stress and anxiety. For me, reading, enjoying time in nature, physical exercise outdoors, and cooking all help me significantly to “find myself” amidst the noise and the haste of modern life.

We have many articles in our Health and Lifestyle section which I encourage you to read.

Yoga and Meditation

I’m a firm believer in the power of yoga and meditation. I am a Hatha certified yoga instructor and have been a daily Yogic practitioner since I was 18.

My teachers and gurus were also skilled in Ayurvedic medicine, and this further shaped my fundamental belief that diet is critical, and everything within us is interconnected.

We must play active roles in the management of our own health and maintain awareness of our “whole” being. The mind, body, and soul are connected, and are a vital cause and effect of our ailments.

To that end, I have studied saffron and many other natural foods and ingredients at length. Combined with the clinical approach of my partner, we trust we can assist you through our products, articles, and information in the pursuit of your health and happiness.

Paradis Saffron – Spice of Paradise

“Paradis” is a French derivation of the Old Persian word “Pardis” (Pardes) in the progression to “Paradise” in modern English. Pairi-daêza (which means enclosed gardens) is in the original Avestan language of Northeast Iran, which is home to one the oldest known languages and the birthplace of all fine Persian Saffron.

Our modern logo reflects the key elements of fine saffron: three full, all red threads of saffron of the Crocus Sativus flower and the “Saffron” fontin the rich, golden saffron color imparted by saffron’scrocins.

Corporate and Social Activities

We are pleased to support these organizations as their mandates and activities are well-aligned with our corporate culture. We encourage you to join us (or directly participate in your own way) to support ongoing efforts that address the needs of the less fortunate.

Kiva

Kiva’s mission is to connect people through lending to help alleviate poverty. Join Team Enlighten.

Kiva empowers individuals to lend to entrepreneurs across the globe. By combining microfinance with the internet, Kiva is creating a global community of people connected through lending.

Child Foundation

Mission – To help children in need, who have been identified as high achievers remain in school.

Philosophy – We believe that education can move a child beyond the stigma of poverty, and give that child the tools to reach his or her true and full potential.

Purpose – Since 1994, Child Foundation has provided basic necessities to children living in poverty or hardship, enhancing the quality of life for these children as well as their families. By providing access to education, Child Foundation hopes to eliminate children prematurely leaving school and, in certain countries, early matrimony.

Reel Causes

REEL CAUSES organizes social film screening events in which film fans and the community enjoy high quality films for the benefit of different causes. Fully organized by volunteers, 100% of proceeds go to benefit the charity or cause of the month. Filmmakers and non-profit representatives join the events for Q & A sessions to answer questions about the issues presented in the films.

REEL CAUSES events highlight issues that require community attention such as poverty, disease and humanitarian causes. The organization hopes to trigger social change by showing screen films about these and related subjects.