Saffron has been used in Asia for thousands of years in traditional medicine. There is also a significant amount of research that indicates that saffron can enhance health or help cure some health disorders. The German “heilpraxis” website, reveals the actual effect of saffron on human health and how to use this type of spice correctly and healthily.
According to nutrition expert, Beth Zeroni, from the American Medical Center “Cleveland Clinic” in the United States of America, saffron contains a high percentage of antioxidants, which help fight cell damage and prevent the development of cancer and other diseases.
Antioxidants
Saffron has benefits on the nervous system, and Zeroni points out that antioxidants, such as crocetin, crocin and saffronal found in saffron, help improve memory and learning, and even protect against neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s disease.
Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is a good way to increase your antioxidant intake and prevent disease. Adding some saffron to a healthy diet may increase the absorption of antioxidants.
premenstrual syndrome
Premenstrual syndrome can cause a variety of symptoms, including pelvic pain and acne. Oftentimes, PMS may also affect women’s mental health, causing anxiety, depression, and mood swings. There is some research that has shown that saffron is actually able to reduce depression associated with this symptom, according to the expert.
Saffron has many benefits and helps in treating many diseases, but caution and consult a doctor before using it
Weight loss
Many people suffer from the problem of being overweight. A study conducted on a group of women showed that eating saffron contributed to reducing their feelings of hunger, and that the participants did not eat bingely. “There is evidence that saffron can suppress appetite and aid weight loss. But it does not work on its own. Saffron must be combined with a healthy, balanced diet in order to achieve success,” the expert explains.
anti-seizure
Saffron is used in Iranian folk medicine as an anticonvulsant (a treatment against seizures). There are studies that suggest that saffron may shorten some types of seizures. But Zeroni warns: “Saffron may help treat seizures, but we need more data on its safety and efficacy. If you have seizures, check with your doctor before taking any herbs or supplements such as saffron.”
Erectile dysfunction
According to a nutritionist, some studies suggest that saffron helps treat erectile dysfunction. Saffron can also be a supplement to herbal remedies. “Studies have found that taking 30 milligrams of saffron daily is effective, but one should not exceed this amount. High levels of saffron can be toxic,” Zeroni cautioned.
Alzheimer
Saffron may be as effective as prescription medications in treating mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. “Some preliminary studies have found that saffron extract improves cognitive function in people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease,” explains Zeroni. The side effects of saffron are also less severe than those caused by medications.
Depression
Depression is a mental disorder, and its treatment includes various types of psychological therapies or medications. A study showed that saffron can also help reduce symptoms of depression. Saffron can be used to treat depression in the future. However, deeper studies are needed to evaluate long-term results before saffron can replace proven antidepressants. Zeroni also warns that under no circumstances should you stop prescribed medications without first seeking medical advice.
Safe use of saffron
Saffron petals look like thin red threads. These strands can be softened with hot water and made into saffron tea. Saffron can also be added to savory dishes to add flavour. And if you do not like the taste of saffron, swallowing saffron capsules can help.
It is important to seek medical advice before starting to take saffron supplements. Some nutritional supplements can cause unwanted side effects. This is especially true for pregnant women who take medications.
“Saffron is generally safe when used in small amounts for cooking or tea. It is also high in antioxidants, so we know it has health benefits,” but when in doubt, consult a doctor before including saffron in the diet to ensure it is safe.
I.M/A.J.
