Why Saffron Is Good For Your Health: Top Benefits Explained

Saffron is powerful antioxidant-rich spice that can offer an array of benefits. It can improve mood, alleviate inflammation, reduce cancer risk, boost heart health, and protect you from Alzheimer’s. It contains compounds namely crocin and safranal that enhance cognitive function, improve eyesight, support weight management, and decrease PMS symptoms. The spice adds unique yellowish color to foods and has been used extensively as flavouring and colouring agent.

Health Benefits of Saffron

1. High In Antioxidants: It has high antioxidants that can fight cell damage, prevent cancer, and other diseases. According to a research conducted by National Library of Medicine, “presence of antioxidants in saffron indicated that it is beneficial for the brain and nervous system. It contains essential antioxidants namely crocetin, crocin, and safranal that can help enhance memory and learning capabilities. These powerful substances in saffron can also prevent neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease.

2. Decreases PMS Symptoms: Premenstrual symptoms or PMS can cause several symptoms such as pelvic discomfort, acne, anxiety, food cravings, fatigue, and mood swings, among others. According to a research published in National Library of Medicine, saffron intake can improve PMS-linked depression. “Saffron was found to be effective in relieving Symptoms of PMS,” added the report.

3. Supports Weight Loss: It can be a challenging task for many individuals to lose weight especially when the appetite does not support you. According to a study featured in Science Direct, when a group of women took the spice it helped them feel less hungry as the spice promoted satiety and decreased unnecessary snacking. Saffron can control your appetite and promotes weight loss. However, it should be paired with healthy and balanced diet for desired outcome.  

4. Helps With Seizure: It has been used as an anticonvulsant or anti-seizure cure in Iranian folk medicine. The spice can shorten some particular kinds of seizures. However, it is best to speak with your health care professional before taking saffron, according to a report featured in Cleveland Clinic.

5. Alzheimer’s Treatment: The spice can cure mild to moderate Alzheimer’s by improving cognitive function and inhibiting amyloid-beta aggregation, with effectiveness comparable to donepezil and memantine, according to National Institute of Health. It works as a neuroprotective agent by decreasing neuroinflammation. Presence of compounds namely crocin, crocetin, and safranal are responsible for these effects.

6. Reduces Depression: Depression has impacted millions of individuals all across the globe. Saffron can help with the symptoms of depression. The spice can increase the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine by inhibiting reabsorption. It offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health or treatment options.