The Science Behind Saffron's Health Benefits

 Health Benefits of Saffron: The King of Spices

Saffron, the priciest spice in the world, has immense health benefits. It packs a lot of nutrients apart from distinct colour and fragrance. It is generally the safest among the spices to consume. Globally, especially, in the Indian subcontinent, saffron water benefits are much talked about because of their effects on skin, heart and respiratory system. 

However, we must know the science behind saffron's benefits and then use it in our food to achieve the optimum effect.

 
What is Saffron?

Saffron is identified by its characteristic red colour and beautiful aroma. It is harvested from the flowers of Crocus sativus, a distant family member of lilies. Saffron seeds are sown in early fall or late summer and harvested in the month of November.
The female organs of saffron flowers (styles and stigmas) are harvested, heated, and cured. Only 450 grams of saffron is harvested from 75,000 flowers. It has been cultivated for 4000 years!

The female parts (pistils or gynoecium) are handpicked by farmers. These plants grow in the Mediterranean parts of Asia. But, the biggest producer is Iran (more than 88%). This labour-intensive crop is often termed red gold due to its staggering price. Kashmiri saffron is what we procure in India.

These reddish stigma threads come from purple Crocus flowers. When added to milk, it produces the much-revered saffron milk. But why are the saffron threads red? Here is the answer!

Saffron: The Science Behind Its Colour, Aroma, and Taste

The remarkable colour of saffron comes from two bioactive compounds – Crocetin and Crocin. These compounds comprise 4 to 6% of this spice. They together are called Picrocrocin.

These compounds make saffron slightly bitter in taste. This rich flavour is complex and has a sweet, earthy, and floral taste. Picrocrocin is the prime constituent of its essential oil. Safranal is another bioactive compound constituting 30 to 70% of the volatile compounds in this spice.

The saffron benefits come from these bioactive compounds. Let’s scout its health benefits in detail and understand why this spice is so popular across the world.

Health Benefits of Saffron That Make it the King of Spices

Numerous saffron benefits make it the ‘King of Spices’. Here is how this powerhouse spice can boost your health.

Rich in Antioxidants

Saffron contains potent antioxidants such as:

●Crocin
●Kaempferol
●Crocetin
●Safranal

These compounds protect your body from oxidative stress and free radicals. Such stress causes cell damage. These antioxidants help:

●Reduce inflammation
●Protect brain cells
●Boost immunity
●Fight against chronic diseases like cancer

Saffron Improves Mood and Fights Depression

Saffron is termed as the sunshine spice as it can elevate mood. Studies suggest that saffron may:

●Be as effective as conventional antidepressants
●Help treat mild to moderate depression

While more research is needed, saffron shows promise in supporting mental health.

Saffron May Have Cancer-Fighting Properties

Saffron’s high antioxidant content plays a role in fighting cancer. It helps neutralise free radicals that are linked to cancer. The bioactive compounds have selective toxicity on cancer cells without affecting normal cells. One of the saffron benefits for females is it can be a potent prototype for treating breast cancer.

Saffron Helps Relieve PMS Symptoms

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) can cause both physical and emotional discomfort. Saffron can provide relief from symptoms like mood swings and anxiety. Consult a healthcare professional before using saffron for PMS relief.

Saffron Boosts Libido

One of the saffron benefits for males is its aphrodisiac properties. It is ideal for individuals taking antidepressants. It may help with:

●Erectile dysfunction
●Sexual arousal and satisfaction
●Lubrication during intercourse

Saffron Supports Weight Loss

Consuming saffron can reduce appetite. Several studies have found that saffron:

●Lowers body mass index (BMI)
●Reduces waist circumference
●Decreases frequent snacking

Saffron as a Potential Treatment for Alzheimer’s Disease

Early studies suggest that saffron may be as effective as certain medications in treating mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. Its antioxidant properties could:

●Improve cognitive function
●Slow the progression of the disease
●Protect brain cells from further damage

Saffron May Reduce Heart Disease Risk

Saffron may help protect your heart by lowering risk factors such as:

●LDL (bad) cholesterol
●Total cholesterol levels
●Blood pressure

Saffron can reduce the chances of heart attacks and other cardiovascular issues by improving these markers. To ensure this, one can simply resort to saffron water benefits. 

Saffron Helps Control Seizures

In traditional Iranian medicine, saffron is used as a remedy for seizures. Some studies suggest it could act as an anticonvulsant. However, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in treating seizure disorders.

Saffron Improves Memory and Learning

Saffron's antioxidants may help improve memory and learning abilities. Research shows that these compounds:

●Support better cognitive function
●Protect the brain from damage

Adding these saffron benefits will need proper guidance. Worry not! Here, we have explained how you can use this costly spice to avail yourself of its health benefits perfectly.

The Best Ways to Use Saffron

1.Saffron water: Add saffron threads to hot water. Let it cool for 15 minutes and steep. Rink and enjoy the saffron water benefits.
2.Saffron milk: Boil 7 to 8 threads in a glass of milk. Add honey and enjoy it.
3.Saffron tea: Steep saffron strands in hot water or milk for a calming, fragrant tea.
4.Infused drinks: Add saffron to lemonades or cocktails for a unique flavour boost.
5.Saffron oil/butter: Infuse oil or butter with saffron for an aromatic base in dishes.
6.Saffron extract: Soak saffron in warm water or alcohol to create an extract for cooking.
7.Desserts: It is used in rice pudding and cakes.
8.Traditional Dishes: Add saffron to paella or biryani for rich colour and flavour.

The End Note: Unlock the Power of Saffron for Better Health

Saffron is more than just a luxury spice as it offers numerous health benefits. Saffron is a natural powerhouse that can improve your mood, fight cancer, boost memory and heart health. Enjoy saffron milk or kheer to derive multiple health benefits along with its distinctive flavour and beautiful aroma. It truly lives up to its title - “the King of Spices.”