Saffron is a highly coveted spice that is obtained from the plant called Crocus sativus, which has been used for centuries for its powerful beneficial properties for the health of the body.
Historically, saffron is known to treat conditions such as:
Stomach issues
Heart trouble
Mental disorders
Insomnia
Weak Immunity
Uterine bleeding
Menstrual issues
And even eye disorders
Because it takes a large quantity of flowers and dried stigmas to make just one kilogram of the spice, and because these have to be laboriously harvested by hand, Saffron is one of the most expensive spices in the world.
But those who use saffron in their daily life and diets, claim that it is worth every penny.
Here are some of the incredible benefits of Saffron:
1. A Powerful Antioxidant
Saffron plays a key role in disease prevention thanks to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. In fact, the high level of crocetin stands out, a powerful antioxidant that protects the body from the harmful action of free radicals, responsible for the aging of cells.
2. May Reduce Appetite and & Aid Weight Loss
This spice is ideal to improve digestive processes by stimulating the system and increasing gastric secretions.
Studies show that saffron intake effectively enhances the serotonin levels in our body, which helps suppress the appetite or the impulse to eat. A particular saffron extract was found to reduce food cravings and other inappropriate food habits in clinical trials. It reduced feelings of hunger and lowered frequency of snacking, supporting appetite moderation and healthy weight management.
3. Antidepressant
Saffron has been nicknamed the “sunshine spice,” and that’s not just because of its red and sometimes yellow coloring. The spice is believed to have mood-boosting properties.
4. Heart health
Saffron has many different chemical components. Some of these may help to reduce blood pressure and provide protection against heart disease.
5. Boosts Memory and Promotes Learning
Saffron also has a beneficial impact on learning, concentration, memory, and age related mental impairment. A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics found that saffron improved cognitive function in study participants with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia.
6. Support Your Immune System
Saffron consists of many important antioxidants, such as a-crocin, zea-xanthin, lycopene, a- and ß-carotenes, that help protect the human body from infections, oxidant-induced stress, cancers, and which act as immune modulators.
7.Saffron is great for your skin
As saffron is rich in manganese, it regulates blood sugar and in turn gives you glowing skin. With its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities, saffron is an ideal ingredient for treating acne and breakouts. It holds medicinal properties which can help in clearing up acne prone skin. Pollution, harsh weather and external factors can make the skin dull and lifeless. Regular application of saffron can breathe life into your skin, making it radiant. Soak saffron in half-a-cup of raw milk, and apply this concoction on your face for a natural glow. You can even steep a few strands of saffron in a cup of boiling water and sip it every morning. It helps in improving digestion and appetite, keeps your skin healthy and enhances your immunity. Drinking saffron in water (or milk) every night before bed time promotes sound sleep.
HOW TO BUY SAFFRON
Three things to keep in mind while buying saffron:
1. Colour:
The colour of your saffron needs to be a deep but bright red colour, not yellow.
2. Length:
The longer the strands the better the grade
3. Aroma:
Your saffron should smell like a honey and hay combination. Saffron has a very peculiar smell and you will know its great saffron if you can smell it from afar. There should be no chemical smell at all, ever. Otherwise you have altered saffron or fake saffron.
Visit @roxysaffronhttps://www.instagram.com/roxysaffron/ to know more.
By: Delna Mistry Anand. @delnaanand