Keep in mind that the saffron dye must be cheap, since it's traditionally what Buddhist monks (of certain orders, anyway) have dyed their robes with for centuries - and they have a vow of poverty, and can only wear clothes which have been given to them. Obviously they aren't using the most expensive spice in the world to dye their robes that nice golden colour.

As for heather in beer, I've used it myself for a scotch ale, and it was wonderful. It's long been used in Scottish gruit beers, before hops were common (hops are a German/Czech introduction, relatively recent in beer history).

Andrew.