Saffron (a spice derived from the flower of Crocus Sativs) is a powerful spice high in antioxidants.
It has been linked to health benefits, such as improved mood, libido, and sexual function, as well as reduced PMS symptoms and enhanced weight loss.
Best of all, it’s generally safe for most people and easy to add to your diet. Try incorporating saffron into your favorite dishes to take advantage of its potential health benefits.
- A Powerful Antioxidant
Saffron contains an impressive variety of plant compounds that act as antioxidants – molecules that protect your cells against free radicals and oxidative stress.
- May improve Mood and Treat Depressive Symptoms
Saffron is nicknamed the “sunshine spice”. That’s not just due to its distinct color, but also because it may help brighten your mood. Studies found that taking 30mg of saffron daily was just as effect as Fluoxetine, Imipramine, and Citalopram – conventional treatments for depression. Additionally, fewer people experienced side effects from saffron compared to other treatments.
- May have Cancer-Fighting Properties
Saffron is high in antioxidants, which help neutralize harmful free radicals. Free radical damage has been linked to chronic diseases, such as cancer.
- May Reduce PMS Symptoms
In women 20-45 years of age, taking 30 mg of saffron daily was more effective than a placebo at treating PMS symptoms, such as irritability, headaches, cravings and pain.
- May Act as an Aphrodisiac
In women with low sexual desire due to taking antidepressants, 30 mg of saffron daily over four weeks reduced sex-related pain and increased sexual desire and lubrication, compared to a placebo.
- May Reduce Appetite and Aid Weight Loss
In one eight-week study, women taking saffron supplements felt significantly more full, snaked less frequently, and lost significantly more weight than women in the placebo group.
- Improve Sleep Quality
Saffron contains magnesium which can calm the nerve and promotes sleepiness. In ayurvedic medication, saffron is known to have sedative effect to the body.
- Prevent Diabetes
The extract of saffron can significantly protect the pancreas from damage and it can improve insulin sensitivity in the body. By increasing the level of insulin and enhance insulin sensitivity, saffron is one of the best spice to prevent diabetes.
Saffron (Crocus sativus) Nutritional Value per 100 grams
|
Principal Nutrient |
Value |
RDA % |
|
Energy |
310 Kcal |
15.5 |
|
Carbohydrates |
65.37 g |
50 |
|
Protein |
11.43 g |
21 |
|
Total Fat |
5.85 g |
29 |
|
Cholesterol |
0 g |
0 |
|
Dietary Fiber |
3.9 g |
10 |
|
Vitamins |
|
|
|
Folates |
93 mcg |
23 |
|
Niacin |
1.46 mg |
9 |
|
Pyridoxine |
1.010 mg |
77 |
|
Riboflavin |
0.267 mg |
20 |
|
Thiamin |
0.115 mg |
10 |
|
Vitamin C |
80.8 mg |
90 |
|
Vitamin A |
530 IU |
18 |
|
Electrolytes |
|
|
|
Potassium |
1724 mg |
37 |
|
Sodium |
148 mg |
10 |
|
Minerals |
|
|
|
Calcium |
111 mg |
11 |
|
Copper |
0.328 mg |
37 |
|
Iron |
11.10 mg |
139 |
|
Magnesium |
264 mg |
66 |
|
Manganese |
28.408 mg |
1235 |
|
Phosphorus |
252 mg |
36 |
|
Zinc |
1.09 mg |
10 |
Side Effects
Possible side effects may include anxiety, change in appetite, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, nausea and headache.
It is possible to be allergic to this herb. If you have allergies to plant species like Lolium, Olea (includes Olive), and Salsola then you may be allergic to Saffron. Seek medical attention if you believe you are exhibiting signs of a serious allergic reaction.
Saffron is not recommended in amounts larger than what is typically found in food for pregnant women since large amounts may cause the uterus to contract and might cause a miscarriage. Check with your health care provider before taking it medically if you are breastfeeding or begin treated for any medical conditions, especially a bipolar disorder, low blood pressure or a hear condition.
Sources:
www.healthline.com/nutrition/saffron
www.drhealthbenefits.com/herbal/herbal-plant/health-benefits-of-saffron
www.draxe.com/nutrition/saffron/
USDA National Nutrient data base