Saffron is the world's most expensive spice. Its high price is due to its labour-intensive harvesting method, which makes production expensive. Saffron is hand harvested from the flower of the Crocus sativus, also known as the saffron crocus. The stigma, which are thread-like structures on the flower, is referred to as "saffron."
While the exact origin of saffron is unknown, it is thought to have originated in Iran. It was revered there for its medicinal properties. Saffron was consumed to improve libido, mood, and memory.
Here is a list of benefits you will get by eating saffron.
1. Enhances Mood
Saffron is known as the "sunshine spice." This is due not only to its distinct colour but also to the fact that it may help brighten your mood.
In an analysis of studies, saffron supplements were found to be significantly more effective than placebos (the placebo effect refers to the idea that your brain can trick your body into thinking a fake treatment is the real thing) in treating mild-to-moderate depression symptoms.
Other studies found that taking 30 mg of saffron daily was just as effective as Fluoxetine, Imipramine, and Citalopram — all of which are standard depression treatments. Furthermore, saffron was associated with fewer side effects than other treatments. Both the saffron petals and the thread-like stigma appear to be useful in the treatment of mild-to-moderate depression.
2. Rich In Antioxidants
Saffron contains a wide range of plant compounds. These are antioxidants, which are molecules that protect your cells from free radicals and oxidative stress. It may improve your mood, memory, and learning ability, as well as protect your brain cells from oxidative stress, according to research. Finally, kaempferol can be found in the petals of saffron flowers. This compound has been linked to a variety of health benefits, including reduced inflammation, anticancer activity, and antidepressant activity.
3. Anti-cancer Properties
Saffron is high in antioxidants, which aid in the neutralisation of free radicals. Cancer and other chronic diseases have been linked to free radical damage.
Saffron and its constituents have been shown in laboratory studies to selectively kill or suppress colon cancer cells while leaving healthy cells alone.
4. May Boost Eye Health
Safranal, a component of saffron, has been shown to delay retinal degeneration. The compound may also help to prevent the loss of rod and cone photoreceptors. Because of these properties, safranal may be useful in delaying retinal degeneration in retinal pathologies. In the case of age-related macular degeneration, saffron supplementation was also found to induce a mid-term, significant improvement in retinal function. More research on saffron supplementation in clinical practice, however, is needed.
5. May Aid Heart Health
By strengthening the circulatory system, saffron helps reduce the risk of heart disease. The spice contains thiamin and riboflavin, which promote heart health and help prevent various cardiac issues.
Saffron's antioxidant properties aid in the maintenance of healthy arteries and blood vessels. The anti-inflammatory properties of the spice are also beneficial to the heart. Crocetin in the spice regulates blood cholesterol levels indirectly and reduces the severity of atherosclerosis.
