Turkish Saffron – 0 Natural and Organic
Saffron is the most expensive spice in the world.The reason for its hefty price is its labor-intensive harvesting method, making the production costly. Saffron is harvested by hand from the Crocus sativus flower, commonly known as the “saffron crocus.” The term “saffron” applies to the flower’s thread-like structures, or stigma.It originated it was revered for its medicinal properties. People would eat saffron to enhance libido, boost mood, and improve memory.
What’s impressive health benefits of saffron
1. A Powerful Antioxidant
Saffron is rich in plant compounds that act as antioxidants, such as crocin, crocetin, safranal, and kaempferol. Antioxidants help protect your cells against oxidative stress.
2. May Improve Mood and Treat Depressive Symptoms
Saffron may help treat symptoms of mild-to-moderate depression, but more studies are needed before definite recommendations can be made.
3. May Have Cancer-Fighting Properties
Saffron is high in antioxidants, which may help kill cancer cells while leaving normal cells unharmed. However, more human research is needed.
4. May Reduce PMS Symptoms
Both eating and smelling saffron appears to help treat PMS symptoms, such as irritability, headaches, cravings, pain, and anxiety.
5. May Act as an Aphrodisiac
Saffron may have aphrodisiac properties for both men and women and may especially help those taking antidepressants.
6. May Reduce Appetite and Aid Weight Loss
Saffron has been shown to reduce snacking and curb your appetite. In turn, these behaviors may help you lose weight.
7. May reduce heart disease risk factors
Animal and test-tube studies indicate that saffron’s antioxidant properties may lower blood cholesterol and prevent blood vessels and arteries from clogging
8. May lower blood sugar levels
Saffron may lower blood sugar levels and raise insulin sensitivity.
9. May improve eyesight in adults with age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
Saffron appears to improve eyesight in adults with AMD and protect against free radical damage, which is linked to AMD
10. May improve memory in adults with Alzheimer’s disease
Saffron’s antioxidant properties may improve cognition in adults with Alzheimer’s disease
11. Easy to Add to Your Diet
Saffron has a subtle taste and aroma, which makes it easy to add to your diet. It pairs well with savory dishes and should be soaked in hot water to give a deeper flavor. Alternatively, you can purchase saffron in supplement form to reap its benefits.
Risks, Precautions, and Dosage
Saffron is generally safe with little to no side effects. In standard cooking amounts, saffron does not appear to cause adverse effects in humans.
As a dietary supplement, people can safely take up to 1.5 grams of saffron per day. However, only 30 mg of saffron per day have been shown to be enough to reap its health benefits.
On the other hand, high doses of 5 grams or more can have toxic effects. Pregnant women should avoid high doses, as it may cause miscarriage.
As with any supplement, speak to your doctor before taking saffron in supplement form.
Another issue with saffron — especially saffron powder — is that it may be adulterated with other ingredients, such as beet, red-dyed silk fibers, turmeric, and paprika. Adulteration cuts cost for manufacturers, as real saffron is expensive to harvest.
Therefore, it’s important to purchase saffron from a reputable brand to ensure you get an authentic product. If the saffron appears too cheap, its best to avoid it.
In normal doses, saffron is generally safe with little to no side effects. Make sure to purchase saffron from a reputable brand or store to avoid an adulterated product.
Saffron 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 or purchase a supplement online.
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