Health Benefits of Saffron
Health Benefits of Saffron
Saffron is a spice derived from the flower of Crocus sativus, commonly known as the saffron crocus. The saffron derives from the crimson stigma and styles called threads within the flower itself. It’s collected and dried and is used as a seasoning and coloring agent in culinary and also has medicinal purposes. It is believed that saffron originated in Iran but Greece and Mesopotamia is also suggested as its origin.
Saffron extract and tinctures have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat different ailments including eye diseases, wounds, fractures and joint pain.
Saffron are rich in powerful antioxidants including crocin, picrocrocin, safranal, kaempferol, and crocetin. Antioxidants help fight free radicals in the body and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Saffron may help treat pms symptoms. Studies have shown that women 20-45 years old who consumed saffron daily showed that it was effective in treating PMS symptoms including irritability, headaches, cravings and pain. Another study showed that smelling saffron for 20 minutes helped PMS symptoms including irregular menstruation, anxiety and lowered the levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
Saffron may have aphrodisiac properties and help boost your libido. Studies have shown that men who took saffron daily over 4 weeks significantly improved erectile function compared to those who took a placebo with antidepressant-related erectile dysfunction. More studies showed that men that consumed saffron improved their libido, erectile function, and overall satisfaction.
Another study showed that women with a low sexual desire due to taking antidepressants, who consumed saffron daily over 4 weeks reduced their sex-related pain and increased their sexual desire and lubrication compared to those who consumed a placebo.
Saffron may also help treat depression. Studies have shown that consuming saffron supplements were more effective than a placebo in treating mild to moderate depression.
Saffron may also promote weight loss. Studies have shown that women who consumed saffron supplements curbed their appetite and significantly lost weight.
Saffron may also promote heart health, brain health, lower blood sugar levels and improve eye health.
Saffron is very expensive so if you see it affordable that means it may not be authentic.
Saffron is safe in small doses of up to 1.5g, however if taken in large doses it may be unsafe. High doses of 5 grams or more can cause poisoning and death. Do not consume if you are pregnant because it may cause a miscarriage. Allergic reactions may also occur.
Always consult with your physician.
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/saffron
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-844/saffron
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/benefits-of-saffron/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327017
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4599112/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saffron
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5943931/