Health Benefits of Saffron (Kesar)

Saffron: Dried Stigmas of Female Flower

Saffron, also known as Kesar, is made from the dried stigmas of the flowers of the plant Crocus sativus. The word saffron is thought to originate from the Arabic word for Yellow,’ za'faran’. It is cultivated in India, Iran, France, Turkey, Greece and Spain. Saffron is known to be one of the costliest spices probably because it is cultivated and prepared by hand. It is popularly used as a food coloring and flavoring agent.

Saffron is versatile having significant chemical compounds and volatile oils that are not only beneficial in providing medicinal benefits but adding flavor and aroma to cooking. Some of these oils are cineole, pinene, borneol, geraniol etc. Some non-volatile active components like zeaxanthin, lycopene, alpha and beta carotene are also present in the plant that prevent free radical reactions which produce various diseases.

Saffron Flower

Saffron is rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Riboflavin, Niacin, Proteins, Carbohydrates and dietary fiber. It has almost no cholesterol thus helping in the treatment of problems related to high cholesterol. It is rich in minerals such as iron, copper, zinc, manganese and magnesium. The overall mineral content present in Saffron ensures the maintenance of optimum health.

Health Benefits and Therapeutic Uses of Saffron

Saffron Milk is Good for Health

• During pregnancy, women are generally advised to consume saffron milk as it enhances pelvic blood flow, helps to suppress cramps, ease digestion and reduce flatulence. Also, saffron stimulates production of serotonin in the body that helps females combat mood swings, anxiety and depression during pregnancy. Larger doses of saffron can have an abortive effect, it is therefore necessary for pregnant women to discuss the saffron dosage with their obstetrician.  
• Saffron is also used in the treatment of premenstrual syndromes like depression, irritability and mood swings.
• Saffron is known to help in improving memory power, treating degenerative brain disorders like Alzheimer’s and other memory related issues.
• Saffron helps in the treatment of Macular degeneration (vision disability). Saffron not only slows down the degeneration process of the cells in the eyes but also helps to heal the damaged cells completely.
• Saffron when taken with milk before going to bed, is known to induce sound sleep.
• Saffron is also effective in treating skin blemishes and imparts a fair glow to the skin. Also, saffron contains antioxidants that protect the skin from free radicals and this makes it very valuable in anti-aging natural treatments.
• Saffron is a wonderful natural supplement for those who suffer from high levels of cholesterol as it helps in lowering the levels of bad cholesterol and keeps heart healthy.
• Various compounds in saffron have been identified that have anti-carcinogenic and anti-mutagenic properties. Experimental studies show that saffron extracts can even delay certain types of tumor growth and cancers.
• Saffron helps in providing relief from the discomfort caused by any inflammation or soreness in the mouth.
• Asthma mainly occurs due to inflammation of lung tissue and the narrow airways. Saffron helps in clearing the airways since it reduces the inflammation. This facilitates easy breathing that helps reduce the severity of an asthmatic attack.
• Saffron is known to improve blood circulation as well as improve the digestive system. Thus saffron is also used in many gastro intestinal disorders.
• The numerous health benefits of saffron also includes its use in the treatment of bladder, kidney and liver disorders.

Note: The excessive use of saffron can cause a variety of side effects and therefore, its intake needs to be monitored. Saffron could also cause allergic reactions in certain individuals and therefore one need to be careful of such situations. Other side effects observed in some cases include drowsiness, vomiting, fluctuations in one’s appetite and nausea. Doctors also advise pregnant or breast feeding mothers to avoid intake of high doses of saffron. Consult your doctor in case you are looking at using the herb for medical purpose.