Saffron uses for multiple health benefits, which is also known as Zaffran or Kesar. It is one of the most expensive spices in the world when compared to the other spices. Saffron is a spice herb that is harvested from the flower of a certain type of plant called the "Crocus sativa". It has been used as a spice for centuries as a flavouring, color, and seasoning. It has also been used as a medicine. The main commercial producers of saffron are Iran, Greece, Morocco, Spain, India, and Italy.
This
article review why saffron is vital for your good health, how it is uses, and
side effects and risk.
Why saffron is vital for your good health
Why is saffron so expensive?
The main
reason is that saffron costs a lot of money to harvest. Compounds Vitamins
Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, Roflavin, Folate, Potassium, Iron, Magnesium,
Phosphorus, Sodium, Zinc, Thiam, Saffron.
Why saffron is vital for
your good health?
As stated above, Saffron is
very useful to our health in many ways, & its numerous health benefits are
discussed below:
1. Antioxidants:
Saffron
has been found to be a source of antioxidants, which can help protect the body
from the harmful effects of free radicals. These free radicals have been linked
to a variety of chronic diseases, including cancer. A study conducted on
patients with coronary heart disease demonstrated that daily saffron
consumption for a period of six weeks can provide protection against oxidative
stress. Additionally, its antioxidant properties can help to delay the onset of
aging and mental decline, as well as protect against the sun's damaging rays
that can cause skin cancer. Saffron can also be used to promote the health of
the blood vessels and arteries, as well as to prevent blockages. Additionally,
it may be beneficial in the treatment of seasonal illnesses, such as colds,
coughs, and fevers.
2. May reduce
appetite and aid weight loss:
Snacking
is a habit that can lead to weight gain. In a study, women taking saffron pills
reported feeling fuller, less likely to snack, and losing significantly more
weight than those taking a placebo. Further in another study, saffron extract
was found to dramatically reduce hunger, BMS, waist circumference and total fat
mass when taken as a supplement. It is believed that saffron boosts your mood,
which makes it less likely you’ll want to eat. Saffron may help prevent snacks
by reducing hunger, which promotes good weight management. Saffron works
wonders well to reduce both TBS and waist circumference.
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| Saffron may help to manage weight |
3. Relieve anxiety, stress & depression:
Saffron have alfa-crocin
and safranal compound in it, & it helps to relieve mild to moderate depression
and improve mood in those who regularly consume. A study have shown that Saffron
is rich in carotenoid, which can improve the immune system, and also reduce
stress levels. It also contains many active compounds that have some effect on
the endocrine system, which can stimulate the release of beneficial hormones
that keep us happy and healthy.
4. Manages diabetes & blood pressure:
Saffron
can help with diabetes, and it's a great source of cinnamaldehyde and saffron
that kickstart the antidiabetic response since they have an insulin-sensing
effect. A recent study also found that saffron can help stop too much glucose
from building up in the blood. If you eat saffron regularly in the right
amounts, it can help keep your blood pressure in check. It can also help with
hyperglycemia and oxidative stress, as well as manage the common symptoms of
diabetes, and can even help with diabetes-related dementia.
5. Good for heart health:
Many studies found that
daily intake of saffron improves the overall health of our heart, and also
reduces many risk factors often associated with heart disease by strengthening
the circulatory system, and boost heart health. Further, it is also shown that
Saffron helps in reducing the risk of heart attack, and it increases the
heart’s pumping capacity & improving heart function. It is rich in thiamin
and riboflavin, that promotes a healthy heart and helps prevent various cardiac
issues.
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| Daily intake of saffron improves our heart |
6. Reduces cancer risks:
Numerous research, studies
and organizations found that it may reduce cancer risk. It contains two major
carotenoids, which is known as crocin, and crocetin, and they have powerful
antitumor effects that inhibit the growth of tumors, and it also acts as an
immune modulator and guards the body from cancer. It also slow down the growth
of skin, bone marrow, lung, breast, cervix and prostate cancer.
7. Saffron benefits for female:
Recent
studies have demonstrated that saffron benefits for female who consumed saffron
for a period of six months experienced a decrease in their PMS symptoms.
Exposure to saffron scent for a period of twenty minutes has been found to
significantly reduce PMS systems and regulate the menstrual cycle in female.
This is believed to be due to the decrease in cortisol, a major stress hormone,
which is responsible for the onset of PMS symptoms. Additionally, saffron has
been found to be effective in treating PMS symptoms in female aged 20–45, with
30mg of saffron taken daily being more effective than placebo.
8. Preventing
nervous system disorders:
It looks like saffron might have some kind of antioxidant
properties that could help protect us from neurological issues. In a study was
published in the Journal of Antioxidants that said compounds in saffron, like
crocin, could help reduce inflammation and oxidative damage in the brain. Plus,
a study in people with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease was done using
saffron for 22 weeks and it showed that people who took saffron had similar
cognitive improvements to those who took the same drug.
9. Supporting libido:
Saffron
can also improve sexual appetite and sexual performance in both men and women.
In a study this was showed that saffron benefits for male infertility problems.
Further, saffron had a beneficial effect on ED and overall sexual performance,
but did not alter the viability of sperm. In another 2012 study, researchers
examined the effects of taking saffron and a placebo on women who had
previously reported sexual dysfunction as a result of taking the
anti-depressant. Women taking saffron 30 mg daily for 4 weeks experienced an
increase in sexual appetite and vaginal lube compared to those taking a placebo.
Other health benefits:
- Anti-inflammatory –
It has anti-inflammatory properties, which can improve cardiovascular health in
all age of people.
- Improve eye-sight -
Initial research have found that saffron is a best option for those who wish to
slow down or eliminate vision loss due to natural process of aging.
- Useful for Parkinson’s and
Alzheimer’s disease - Saffron is condensed and used in the
treatment of Parkinson’s disease, and memory loss. It is also useful in
treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
- Good for immune system – Saffron’s
antioxidant properties helps in boosting the immune system, and to elevate
energy levels. Additionally, it is also able to improve blood circulation, and
oxygen delivery to muscles when exercising.
- Skin benefits – It
has several science backed skin benefits, like protect UV radiation, fights
inflammation, reduce hyperpigmentation, and supports wound healing.
Saffron intake may help skin health
What are the best ways to consume saffron?
Saffron can be consumed in several
ways, such as to add favorite’s dishes and prepare a drink.
- Saffron milk benefits - Add
2 – 3 strands of saffron in a cup of warm milk for about 5 minutes, add a pinch
of cinnamon powder, mix well, and enjoy before going to bed.
- Plain tea -
Add few saffron threads in hot water & drink, it is useful for weight-loss.
People who takes saffron tea felt more full and snacked less often throughout
the day.
- Precious drink - Add
a pinch of saffron in boil water, add one cinnamon stick, one teaspoon of
grated ginger, a few drops of lemon juice, add sugar or honey as per taste, let
it simmer for 5 minutes, strain it and drink.
- Indian tea -
Take 1 cup of water, add 10-12 saffron threads, ½ teaspoon of cardamom powder,
1 teaspoon of tealeaves & sugar, boil & then add 1 cup of milk, boil
for a few minutes, strain it and enjoy.
Just 2-3 strands of saffron
per day is enough. The recommended dose of saffron is safe up to 1.5 grams per
day, but research suggested the benefits can be found with as little as 30 mg
per day.
Saffron tea support good health
What are the potential uses of saffron during pregnancy?
Due to its ability to regulate mood and its anti-nausea
effects, saffron is traditionally thought to have some potential uses during
pregnancy, such as assisting with mood swings and morning sickness. Saffron is
another spice that some cultures use in their cooking because they think it can
give pregnant women the nutrients they need. However, it's important for
expectant women to speak with a medical professional before using saffron or
any herbal remedies during pregnancy as the safety and dosage depend on the
individual and should be carefully considered.
What
are side effects and risks of using saffron?
Saffron is
a great spice to add to your diet without risking too much. Eating just 1.5
grams a day is usually safe, but if you eat too much, it can be toxic. 5 g is
considered a toxic dose, and very high dosages can be dangerous for some
people. For example, a study said pregnant women shouldn't eat more than 5 g of
saffron a day because it can stimulate the uterus. If you have an allergic
reaction after eating saffron, you should see a doctor right away.
Conclusion:
It's safe
to say that saffron has a ton of advantages, and most studies have shown that Saffron
uses for health benefits. It's pricey, but it's
really effective if you take it in the right amount. If you're taking it for a
long time, it's probably best to get a doctor's advice. It's an old and
expensive herb, but it has some antioxidants that could help protect you from
certain chronic conditions related to oxidative stress. It's not as good as
eating more fruits and veggies, but it could help improve your mood, sex drive,
and even reduce PMS in some people.
FAQ:
Q1. Can saffron
help with managing diabetes?
Answer: There is some promise for saffron in the treatment of
diabetes. Saffron may lower blood sugar levels by increasing insulin
sensitivity and decreasing insulin resistance, according to studies. However,
more research is required to fully understand the extent of saffron's impact on
managing diabetes, and it shouldn't replace recommended dietary changes or
standard diabetes treatments without first consulting a healthcare provider.
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| Saffron may lower blood sugar levels |
Q2. How does saffron help with weight loss?
Answer: Saffron has been suggested to be an effective weight loss aid
due to its ability to suppress appetite, which can lead to a decrease in
calorie intake. Additionally, it contains compounds such as crocin, safranal
and serotonin, which may stimulate feelings of satiety and reduce emotional
eating. Nevertheless, it is important to note that saffron should be used in
moderation and should not be seen as a substitute for a balanced diet or
regular exercise, as both are essential for successful and long-term weight
management.
Q3. Is
saffron beneficial for skin and hair?
Answer: Saffron is frequently praised for its potential advantages
for healthy skin and hair. Antioxidants found in it can fight off free radicals
and oxidative stress, promoting healthier skin and possibly reducing aging
signs. Saffron may also help to lighten skin and encourage hair growth when
applied topically, but results may vary from person to person and should be
tested on a small patch of skin first.
Q4. Can saffron improve mood and reduce depression?
Answer: The potential of saffron to improve mood and reduce symptoms
of depression is supported by its capacity to alter neurotransmitters in the
brain, such as serotonin and dopamine. While some studies have suggested that
supplementation with saffron may be beneficial when used in combination with
other standard treatments for depression, it is important to consult a
healthcare professional to determine the right dosage and to ensure the safety
and efficacy of the treatment for individual cases.
Reference used:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327017
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/saffron
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