13 Benefits of Saffron with Nutritional Values

Saffron is one of the most expensive spices in the world. The reason is hidden in its labour-intensive harvesting method and availability. It is a tiny, bulbous, perennial spice found initially in Iran. Over the years, clinical research has proven that saffron can provide multiple health benefits.

Are you curious to know the benefits of saffron? Find out all about it in this article.

Team Digit

Health Benefits of Saffron
How to Use Saffron?
Nutritional Values of Saffron
Side Effects of Using Saffron
Precautions for Using Saffron
Who Should Avoid?
Frequently Asked Questions

Top 13 Health Benefits of Saffron

The fact that Saffron has an abundant store of bioactive substances can be considered good for one’s health. There are various health benefits of saffron. Some of these are discussed here.

1. Acts as a Powerful Antioxidant

Saffron is rich in an impressive variety of plant compounds, which makes it a potent antioxidant. It can fight cell damage and help improve your overall health conditions. In addition, a recent study has shown that saffron's antioxidant properties can benefit your brain and nervous system.

Some notable antioxidants in saffron include crocin, crocetin, safranal and kaempferol. These come with antidepressant properties and help protect brain cells and stimulate brain functions and memories. Moreover, these are linked with reduced inflammation and anticancer properties.

2. Improves Mental Health

Saffron is the sunshine spice that can lighten up your mood. Depression is a common mental health issue which can lead to various health complications. However, according to research, saffron is considered more effective than placebos when it comes to treating the symptoms of mild-to-moderate depression.

Another study in this field noted that a daily intake of 30 mg of saffron could provide conventional treatment for depression. In addition, if you are experiencing stress or low mood, saffron consumption will likely help you develop a lighter and healthier mood.

3. Helps Treat Cancer

Saffron is rich in antioxidants, which help it to neutralise harmful free radicals in your body. The damages caused by such radicals often result in cancer, which can be prevented with saffron. A recent test-tube study proves that saffron and its compounds can contribute to killing colon cancer cells or suppress their growth, making sure that the healthy cells are unharmed.

A similar effect is also seen in the case of cancer in other body parts, like bone marrow, skin, prostate, breast, lung, cervix, and others. In addition, saffron is rich in carotenoids, such as crocin and crocetin, which contain potent antitumor effects. Moreover, saffron can also make cancer cells more sensitive to chemotherapy drugs.

4. Reduces PMS Symptoms

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to the specific conditions that occur before a menstrual period in women. These include physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms in them. Commonly, women are likely to experience pelvic pain, acne and pimples, headache, cravings, anxiety, depression and mood swings.

According to a study, women between 20 and 45 years should consider taking about 30mg of saffron daily. It will be more effective than a placebo for controlling PMS problems and symptoms. In addition, herbal medicine containing saffron can relieve women from primary dysmenorrhea.

5. Acts as an Aphrodisiac

Food supplements for boosting your libido are aphrodisiacs. Saffron contains aphrodisiac properties, which can be effective for people who are taking antidepressants.

Another study, a review of multiple research papers, shows that saffron can significantly improve erectile function, libido, and sexual satisfaction for men. Moreover, it can be effective in treating sex-related pain in women.

6. Helps to Lose Weight

Gaining weight can be a serious issue with various physical complications. A common factor that can cause weight gain is frequent snacking and craving fast food. Saffron has properties that can reduce your appetite and curb your cravings. If you avoid snacking frequently or consume fast food, you will be less likely to gain weight.

A study conducted among women confirms this. The participants were allowed to take saffron supplements daily for about eight weeks. After this period, the participants felt fuller with every meal. They hardly felt the urge to consider snacking. In addition, they lost more weight than another group of women on a placebo.

7. Stimulates Brain Functions

Saffron has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which have therapeutic potential for brain functions and the nervous system. In addition, the saffron extract contains crocin, which can be beneficial for tertian age-related mental impairment.

For instance, the Japanese healthcare system uses capsules containing saffron extract to treat Parkinson's disease, memory loss and inflammation. However, the effectiveness of saffron for treating traumatic brain injury and brain ischemia is yet to be researched.

8. Treats Alzheimer’s Disease

Saffron is often considered a powerful component when treating mild to moderate Alzheimer's. Its antioxidant properties can stimulate brain functions, positively reflecting such diseases. In addition, it interacts with cholinergic and dopaminergic systems, which can contribute to treating Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s.

A study found that saffron protects against free radical damage while moderating acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and reducing neurodegeneration, which contributes to treating Alzheimer’s. In addition, saffron's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects can help enhance your memory by stimulating brain functions. In this regard, patients with mild Alzheimer’s symptoms are likely to benefit from a daily intake of saffron.

9. Helps to Manage Inflammation and Arthritis

Arthritis is a severe health issue. A study conducted in Italy among lab rats shows that the crocetin content in saffron promotes cerebral oxygenation. This is beneficial for treating arthritis. In addition, the petals of the saffron plant and its extract have c effective anti-inflammatory properties. It contains tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, and saponins. All of these can be effective in reducing arthritis pain and causing inflammation.

10. Boosts Eyesight

Saffron also has a role in strengthening your visionary health. It contains safranal, which is effective in preventing or delaying retinal degeneration. Moreover, this component can also reduce rod and cone photoreceptor loss. A delay of retinal degeneration in retinal pathologies benefits your visionary health.

Its benefits are also evident when it comes to age-related macular degeneration. In addition, saffron supplements can offer a significant improvement in retinal function. However, more research can be required in this regard.

11. Helps with Insomnia

Saffron might come with some soothing components that help develop a healthier sleep routine. For example, a recent study conducted among lab rats proves that crocin content in saffron helps to boost non-rapid eye movement sleep. 0%.

Moreover, as discussed earlier, saffron helps to improve mild symptoms of depression. Getting good sleep can be a good way of handling it, as insomnia can often intensify the symptoms of depression. Saffron supplements can help in this regard.

12. Boosts Immunity and Digestion

One of the best ways to improve health conditions is by enhancing immunity. Saffron contains carotenoids, which can have an impact on your immunity. A study conducted among men proves this possibility. Here the participants were given 100mg of saffron every day. In the end, the participants observed temporary immunomodulatory effects without any side effects.

Another benefit of saffron is in terms of digestion. Saffron comes with antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-hyperlipidemic effects. A study conducted among animals revealed their benefit in digestive health. However, its impact on human beings is still unclear.

13. Improves Heart and Liver Health

Heart health depends on multiple factors. Clinical researchers believe that saffron contains antioxidant properties, reducing blood cholesterol levels. It also helps to prevent blood vessels and arteries from clogging. In addition, a test-tube study conducted among diabetic mice revealed that saffron could lower blood sugar levels and raise insulin sensitivity.

A study suggests that saffron supplements can benefit patients suffering from liver metastasis. Moreover, its carotenoid content inhibits the production of reactive oxygen species, which can help your body. Furthermore, it can protect your liver from external toxins. However, more research will be mandatory to prove this point.

How to Use Saffron?

Saffron is widely consumed in various forms to acquire its health benefits. Following are the uses of Saffron:

Powder: Ground saffron is readily available in markets and commonly added for flavour in various dishes. Usually, it is used in layered rice dishes and sometimes added to ice creams and desserts. If you cannot find it, you can always purchase saffron threads and use a mortar to grind it.
Tea: You can also make some herbal tea with saffron, a quick recipe to consume. Start crumpling the stamens with your fingertips before adding these to a bowl of water or milk. Cover the lid after putting it to a boil. It will be ready within fifteen minutes, and the liquid will get thicker and orangish in colour.
Directly to Dishes: You can add saffron threads directly to most liquid dishes. Dishes like risotto alla Milanese and bouillabaisse generate an elevated flavour with whole saffron threads. Their simmering time allows them to draw the taste of saffron.

Remember that Saffron is extremely potent when used in small amounts. The best way to use it is only to use a tiny amount since its intense taste and expensive cost may otherwise dominate the entire meal.

What are the Nutritional Values of Saffron?

Sometimes known as “golden spice,” Saffron is famous for its taste and smell but also because of its nutritional and pharmaceutical values. Below are the Nutritional values of Saffron:

Nutrient	Value per 100 gram
Water	11.9 g
Energy	310 kcal
Protein	11.4 g
Total Lipid (fat)	5.85 g
Carbohydrate	65.4 g
Fibre	3.9 g
Calcium	111 mg
Iron	11.1 mg
Magnesium	264 mg
Phosphorus	252 mg
Potassium	1720 mg
Sodium	148 mg
Zinc	1.09 mg
Copper	0.328 mg
Vitamin C	80.8 mg

What are the Side Effects of Using Saffron?

Now that you know the medicinal benefits of saffron, you should be aware of the common side effects. There are not many side effects, and these are mostly mild. Here are the possible problems you can face due to overconsumption:

If you take more than 1.5 grams of saffron daily, you can face side effects like dizziness, nausea, vomiting and stomach-related diseases.
There can also be allergic reactions because of overconsumption.
Dosage over 12-20g of saffron can cause poisoning and death.
There are chances of miscarriage if pregnant people take high doses of saffron.
You can also experience a yellow appearance on the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes.
It might result in the mouth being dry.
Possible allergic reactions to sensitive people.
Could cause variations in your appetite.
Has potential for interaction with other drugs and hence their effectiveness.

What are the Precautions of Using Saffron?

While knowing the advantages of saffron, it is also essential to determine the precautions to take in this process. Here are some of these that can guide you in the process:

Precaution	Description
Good quality	Try to purchase high-quality saffron from reputable brands. The cheaper products might not be authentic and cause health issues. Research the product and store and read the reviews, too.
Dosage Limitations	Always consult a physician before taking saffron to choose the correct dosage and know about any possible reactions your body might have against it. Ingesting an excess of it may lead to some serious side effects.
Allergic Reactions	Saffron powder is often mixed with ingredients like beet, red-dyed silk fibres, turmeric, and paprika. Therefore, you should make sure that you are not allergic to these. Observe signs like rashes, itching skin, or difficulty breathing.
Blood Pressure Considerations	Use of Saffron may result in a decrease in blood pressure. Should you have hypotension or are on medications for blood pressure, consult with your physician before using this herb so as not to worsen the situation.
Drug Interactions	Antidepressants and other mood-stabilising medications may have their effects changed by Saffron. Therefore, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider before taking Saffron with such medicines.
Chronic Health Conditions	It is prudent that one must be careful when using Saffron when having kidney and liver problems since it can worsen these conditions. Thus, it is wise to seek medical advice before consuming Saffron.
Gastrointestinal Sensitivity	When people take this spice, they may suffer from digestive discomfort such as diarrhoea, stomach cramps, or even vomiting. Hence, consume in small amounts first and then increase the dosage.
Surgical Considerations	Saffron affects blood pressure and clotting; therefore, one should desist from using it at least one or two weeks prior to any scheduled surgery because of possible complications to the body.

Who Should Avoid Using Saffron?

Saffron has various health benefits but is not suited for everyone. It is advisable to avoid taking Saffron in a few cases. These are discussed below:

People with Bipolar Disorder

People who have bipolar disorder should avoid Saffron. It is known for lifting moods, which might trigger impulsive behaviour in such conditions. Saffron can drastically trigger mood swings in people with bipolar disorder.

People Allergic to Plants

You should avoid Saffron if you are allergic to plants like Olea (including olive), Lolium, and Salsola plant species. Being allergic to these plants means your body may be allergic to saffron as well.

People with Heart Diseases

If you suffer from severe heart and cardiovascular diseases, you should avoid taking high doses of Saffron. As Saffron lowers the blood pressure of the body, it can have an effect on the underlying heart conditions.

Blood Pressure Patients

Saffron helps to lower blood pressure. Hence, you should avoid it if you suffer from low blood pressure issues. Consuming saffron can cause your blood pressure to go even lower than the initial reading.

Surgical Patients

People who have surgery scheduled in one or two weeks must not consume Saffron to prevent any adverse effects. It can make unnecessary changes in your body, affecting the surgery process.

Patients on blood thinners

Patients on blood thinners must avoid it, as it has an adverse effect on the body under blood thinners. Anticoagulant medicines could lead to bleeding in the presence of Saffron in the body system.

Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

The use of Saffron while pregnant could increase uterine contractions, which can cause a miscarriage. Information regarding the safety of Saffron in breastfeeding is inadequate. Only small amounts should be used.

Therefore, as you can see, there are multiple benefits of Saffron. Even though it is expensive, these benefits make it worth consuming. However, as this article pointed out, you should know the possible side effects and problems associated with high doses. Hence, you should consult a doctor to avoid such issues.

FAQs about Health Benefits of Saffron

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How long does saffron take to work?

Saffron takes about one week to start working effectively. However, if there is a severe condition, it might take up to two months to start showing results.

Does saffron make you sleepy?

As saffron helps to treat insomnia, it can make you slightly sleepy to get a better sleep routine. However, overconsumption of saffron causes dizziness and fatigue.

Can I grow saffron at home?

Yes, you can grow saffron at home. Crocus corms will grow best in hot climates.

What are the health benefits of Saffron?

Saffron is known for its antioxidative properties, potential mood-enhancing effects, and possible benefits for the heart, cognitive functions, and inflammation reduction.

How much Saffron should I use in cooking?

Usually, just a pinch (about 20-30 threads) would do fine for many recipes to add taste and colour without any negative impact.

Can Saffron be used daily?

Yes, Saffron can be taken daily but only in small amounts; it should not be consumed in excessive quantities as it may cause unwanted effects.

Is Saffron safe for children?

In small culinary amounts, Saffron is regarded as safe for children; caution should still be exercised while using large quantities because they might lead to poisoning.

How should you store Saffron?

To preserve the freshness and flavour of the herb, make sure that you keep it in an airtight container away from direct sunlight and heat.

Can Saffron help with depression?

There are several studies suggesting that Saffron might have mood-enhancing capabilities that could help those with mild to moderate depressive illnesses, though one needs to consult a doctor before supplementing with this spice when depressed.

How can we incorporate Saffron into a recipe?

There is Saffron, which should be soaked in warm water, milk, or broth for about 10-15 minutes before being added to the dishes.

Are there any side effects from consuming Saffron?

This may include such things as lightheadedness, upset stomach, feeling thirsty, change in appetite, allergic reactions and mood swings, especially when consumed excessively.

Can you take Saffron as a supplement?

Yes, there are some Saffron supplements, but it is important to consult your doctor before starting supplementation with this herb.

Is Saffron safe for pregnancy?

No, pregnant women should avoid using too much Saffron because it might induce uterine contractions.

Can Saffron be used to lose weight?

Yes, as it decreases hunger pangs and food cravings, it can help in losing extra pounds, though care must be taken to ensure that it is part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

How do I know if it’s real?

The original one has a peculiar smell, a deep red colour with orange tips and a bitter taste that, when soaked in water or milk, gives out golden yellow colouration; thus, watch out for fake ones without those characteristics.