Saffron might offer antioxidant and anticancer properties. However, certain people should avoid large doses.
Saffron is one of the most expensive spices on the planet—one pound (450 grams) costs between $500 and $5,000.
The reason behind its steep cost is the labor-intensive harvesting technique and its high production cost.
Saffron is a hand-picked crop from the Crocus Sativus flower called”saffron” crocus. The word “saffron” refers to the thread-like structures of the flower known as stigma.
While the source of saffron's origins is debated, it is believed to be a product of Iran. It was a popular ingredient for its healing properties. People consume saffron to boost libido and mood, and memory.
Here are 11 excellent health benefits of saffron.
1. A potent antioxidant
Saffron is one of a plethora of plant substances. It contains antioxidant molecules that shield cells from free radicals and the effects of oxidative stress.
The most notable antioxidants from saffron are :
- Crocin
- crocetin
- safranal
- kaempferol
Crocin and Crocetin are carotenoid pigments that account for the red color of saffron. Both compounds may:
- Are antidepressant properties.
- protect brain cells against progressive damage
- improve inflammation
- Reduce appetite
- aid weight loss
Safranal provides saffron with its distinctive flavor and aroma. It has been proven that it can boost your mood and memory capability and safeguard your brain cells from the effects of oxidative stress.
Additionally, kaempferol has been found in saffron flower buds. The compound is linked to health benefits such as decreased inflammation, anticancer effects, and antidepressant properties.
SUMMARY
Saffron is a rich source of antioxidant phytochemicals, including Crocin, Safranal, crocetin, and Kaempferol. Antioxidants help protect your cells against oxidative stress.
2. Can improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
Saffron is often referred to as the sunshine spice. This is not only because of its unique hue; it can also help lift one's mood.
In the review of five studies that examined saffron supplements, they were found to be much more efficient than placebo when managing symptoms of moderate to mild depression.
Another study found that 30 mg of saffron every day was as efficient as Fluoxetine, Imipramine, and Citalopram, which are the most common treatments for depression. Furthermore, fewer people reported adverse side effects from saffron compared to various therapies.
The saffron-colored petals and thread-like stigma are beneficial against moderate to mild depression.
Although these findings look promising, more human studies that include more participants are required before the experts can recommend saffron as a remedy for depressive symptoms.
SUMMARY
Saffron could help in treating symptoms of moderate to mild depression. However, more research is needed before any definitive guidelines can be established.
3. May contain cancer-fighting properties.
Saffron is rich in antioxidants that help neutralize destructive free radicals. Damage to free radicals has been linked to chronic illnesses, including cancer.
In experiments in test tubes in test-tube studies, saffron, as well as its compounds, have been proven to eliminate colon cancer cells and inhibit their growth, protecting healthy cells
The same effect is also seen in bone marrow, skin, prostate, lung, breast, and cervix, as well as various other cancerous cells.
Test-tube studies have also shown that crocin, the principal antioxidant found in saffroncan, can make cancerous cells more susceptible to chemotherapy drugs.
Although these results from tests on the tube are encouraging, however, the anticancer properties of saffron are not well-studied in the human body, and further research is required.
SUMMARY
Saffron is a rich source of antioxidants. These can aid in the fight against cancer while ensuring healthy cells remain unharmed. However, more research on humans is required.
4. Could help ease PMS symptoms.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is an expression that refers to physical, emotional, psychological, and physical symptoms that occur before the beginning of a menstrual period.
Studies have shown that saffron could aid in the treatment of PMS symptoms.
For women between the ages of 20 and 45 30, taking the equivalent of 30 mg of saffron every day proved more effective than taking a placebo in managing PMS symptoms such as headaches, irritability, cravings, and discomfort.
Another study revealed that taking 20 minutes to smell saffron decreased PMS symptoms like anxiety and reduced cortisol stress hormone levels.
SUMMARY
The smell and the eating of saffron are believed to aid in treating PMS symptoms like headaches, irritability, and cravings, as well as anxiety, pain, and.
5. It can also be used as an aphrodisiac.
Aphrodisiacs are substances or foods which can boost your sexual desire. Research has shown that saffron could have Aphrodisiac qualities, particularly for those who take antidepressants.
For instance, taking 30 mg of saffron daily over 4 weeks significantly improved erectile function over placebo in men with antidepressant-related erectile dysfunction
A further analysis of six studies revealed that saffron consumption significantly increased erectile performance, libido and general satisfaction, however, it did not improve semen characteristics.
In women who suffer from lower sexual desire as a result of taking antidepressants, taking 30 mg of saffron per day for 4 weeks eased the pain associated with sexual activity and increased desire and lubrication. This was in comparison to placebo.
SUMMARY
Saffron could have aphrodisiac qualities for women and men and can be particularly beneficial for those who are taking antidepressants.
6. Might reduce appetite, which can aid the loss of weight.
Snacking is a common habit that can cause weight gain. According to research, saffron could help prevent snacking by reducing appetite.
In an 8-week study, women taking saffron-based supplements felt significantly fuller, ate less often, and shed significantly more weight than those in a placebo group.
In a different study that lasted 8 weeks, the supplement containing saffron extract significantly reduced appetite, body mass index, waist circumference, and total fat mass.
However, scientists aren't certain how saffron can curb appetite and aid in weight loss. One theory is that saffron increases the body's mood and reduces the urge to snack.
SUMMARY
Saffron has been proven to decrease snacking and reduce your appetite. These behaviors can help you shed pounds.
7-10. Potential health benefits
Saffron has been linked with other health benefits, but they aren't yet thoroughly investigated:
7. Might lower the risk of heart disease by reducing risk factors. Test-tube and animal studies suggest that the antioxidant qualities of saffron could reduce blood cholesterol levels and help prevent the blood vessels from becoming blocked.
8. It could decrease blood sugar levels. Studies conducted on test tubes and mice with diabetes have shown that saffron may lower blood sugar levels and increase the sensitivity of insulin.
9. Might improve eyesight in people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Saffron is believed to improve vision in people suffering from AMD and also protect against damage caused by free radicals that is associated with AMD
10. may help improve memory among adults suffering from Alzheimer's. Saffron's antioxidant properties could improve cognition among adults suffering from Alzheimer's disease.
SUMMARY
Saffron has been linked to various other health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease, eyesight, blood sugar levels, and memory. However, more research is required to make more definitive conclusions.
11. Simple to include in your diet
In smaller amounts, it has a delicate scent and flavor that complements savory dishes like paella, risottos, and various rice-based dishes.
The best method of drawing out saffron's unique flavor is soaking the threads into warm -but not boiling water. Incorporate the threads as well as the liquid to the recipe for a more intense and more intense flavor.
Saffron is easily available at most specialty stores in threads or powdered form. If threads are available, it is best to buy them, as they can be utilized in a variety of ways and are more resistant to adulteration.
While saffron may be one of the most costly spices. However, a tiny amount can go quite a distance. You likely won't require more than a pinch of it in your recipes. Too much saffron may make your dishes taste medicinal flavor.
Additionally, saffron is also available as a supplement.
SUMMARY
Saffron is a mild flavor and aroma, making it easy to incorporate into your diet. It is a great addition to spicy meals and is best immersed in warm water to enhance the taste. You can also buy it in supplement form to get the benefits.
Precautions, risks, and dosage
Saffron is generally considered safe and has minimal or no side negative effects.
Saffron is not believed to cause adverse human reactions in everyday cooking quantities.
Individuals can consume as much as 1.5 milligrams of saffron daily for a nutritional supplement. However, 30 milligrams daily has proven sufficient to reap the health benefits.
However, high doses of five grams and more could have harmful consequences. Pregnant women should avoid taking dosages that are too high, which could cause miscarriage.
Like any supplement, consult a medical expert before taking saffron supplements.
Another problem with saffron, mainly, is that it could be altered (mixed) in other components like beet, silk fibers dyed red turmeric, paprika, and turmeric.
Adulteration can reduce costs for producers since saffron is costly to grow.
Purchasing Saffron from a reliable brand ensures you receive an authentic product. If the saffron seems too expensive, it's recommended that you steer clear of it.
SUMMARY
Saffron is generally considered non-toxic in regular doses and has no adverse consequences. Buying the saffron you want from a reliable company or retailer is essential to avoid purchasing a fake product.
The final line
Saffron is a potent spice that is rich in antioxidants.
It's been associated with health benefits, including increased mood, libido, and sexual performance, and also reduced PMS symptoms and increased weight loss.
The best part is that it's generally safe for most people and simple to incorporate into your daily diet. You can incorporate saffron in your favorite dishes to reap its health benefits. Or purchase a supplement from the internet.