Health Benefits of Saffron

Saffron is the world's most expensive spice –

 1 pound (450 grams) costs between $500 and $5,000.

Its high price is due to its labour-intensive harvesting method, making its production expensive.

Saffron is hand-harvested from the Crocus sativus flower, commonly known as the saffron crocus. The term "saffron" applies to the flower's thread-like structures called stigmas.

Although the origin of saffron is still debated, it probably originated in Iran. There, it was revered for its medicinal properties. People will eat saffron to increase libido, enhance mood, and improve memory .

1- May improve mood and treat depressive symptoms-

Saffron is nicknamed the sunshine spice. This is not just because of its different color, but also because it can help improve your mood.

In a review of five studies, saffron supplements were significantly more effective than placebo in treating symptoms of mild to moderate depression.
Other studies have shown that taking 30 mg of saffron daily is as effective as fluoxetine, imipramine, and citalopram – conventional treatments for depression. Additionally, fewer people experienced side effects from saffron than other treatments.
Saffron petals and threadlike stigmas both appear to be effective against mild to moderate depression.

Although these findings are promising, longer human studies with more participants are needed before experts can recommend saffron for treating depression.

2- Antioxidant with power-

Saffron contains an impressive variety of plant compounds. These act as antioxidants – molecules that protect your cells from free radicals and oxidative stress.

Notable saffron antioxidants include

. crocin
. crocetin
. Safranal
. Kaempferol
Crocin and crocetin are carotenoid pigments responsible for the red color of saffron. Both compounds can be
has anti-depressant properties
Protect brain cells from progressive damage
improve swelling
reduce appetite
aid weight loss
Safranal gives saffron its distinctive flavor and aroma. Research shows that it can help improve your mood, memory and learning ability, as well as protect your brain cells from oxidative stress.
Finally, kaempferol is found in the petals of the saffron flower. This compound has been linked to health benefits, such as reduced inflammation, anticarcinogenic properties, and antidepressant activity.

3- Cancer fighting properties-

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a term that describes the physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms that occur before the onset of menstruation.

Studies show that saffron may help treat PMS symptoms.
In women ages 20–45, taking 30 mg of saffron daily was more effective than placebo in treating PMS symptoms, such as irritability, headaches, cravings, and pain.
Another study found that smelling saffron for just 20 minutes helped reduce PMS symptoms like anxiety and reduced levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

4- May reduce appetite and help with weight loss-

Snacking is a common habit that can make you gain weight. According to research, saffron can help prevent snacking by controlling your appetite.
In an 8-week study, women taking saffron supplements felt significantly more full, snacked less often, and lost significantly more weight than women in the placebo group.
In another 8-week study, taking saffron extract supplements significantly helped reduce appetite, body mass index, waist circumference, and total fat mass.
However, scientists are unsure how saffron reduces appetite and aids weight loss. One theory is that saffron improves your mood, which in turn reduces your desire to snack.

5- Can act as an aphrodisiac-

Aphrodisiacs are foods or supplements that help increase your libido. Studies have shown that saffron may have aphrodisiac properties – especially in people taking antidepressant medications.

For example, taking 30 mg of saffron daily for 4 weeks significantly improved erectile function compared with placebo in men with antidepressant-related erectile dysfunction.

Additionally, an analysis of six studies showed that taking saffron significantly improved erectile function, libido, and overall satisfaction, but did not improve semen characteristics.
In women with low sexual desire due to taking antidepressants, taking 30 mg of saffron daily for 4 weeks reduced sex-related pain and increased sexual desire and lubrication compared to placebo.

6- Easy to include in your diet-

In small doses, saffron has a subtle flavor and aroma and pairs well with savory dishes like paella, risotto and other rice dishes.
The best way to extract the unique flavor of saffron is to soak the threads in hot – but not boiling – water. Add threads and liquid to your recipe to get a deeper, richer flavor.
Saffron is readily available in most specialty markets and can be purchased as threads or powder. It is best to buy threads if possible, as they can be used in many different ways and are less likely to be adulterated.
Although saffron is the most expensive spice in the world, even a small amount goes a long way. You won't often need more than a pinch in your recipes. In fact, using too much saffron can give your dishes an overly medicinal taste.
Apart from this, saffron is also available in supplement form.

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