UNDERSTAND THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF SAFFRON
Saffron is one of the most expensive spices globally because of the complicated harvesting process required for its growth. The harvesting process requires a lot of labour, causing a surge in the final price of the spice. You can use it to add flavour to exotic dishes, or it can be used as a dye for dressing up the final recipe. With a bitter taste and a strong aroma, the spice has been in use since ancient times. A few years back, red saffron cost more than its weight in gold.
Acts as a strong antioxidant
Plant compounds like crocin, crocetin, safranal and kaempferol are known for protecting human cells against oxidative stress. Saffron recipes contain an extensive quantity of crocin and crocetin, which are also responsible for the red pigment of the spice. Both compounds can help with issues like depression and help speed up the weight loss process. Sfaranal is the compound responsible for the fresh aroma and peculiar taste of saffron. The compound has been scientifically proven to elevate mood and reduce any signs of mental stress or anxiety.
Saffron can elevate mood and treat depression-related symptoms
Mental health is becoming a raging issue across the world. Saffron recipes often become a part of the daily routine of a depressed patient. The spice has been proven to be more effective than several other placebos known for causing a reaction against depression. In fact, consuming 30 mg of saffron daily can be a good alternative to conventional drugs like Fluoxetine and Citalopram. The petals and the tread part can be together used in the treatment against mild to severe depression.
Use it in the fight against cancer
Free radicals are a common byproduct of harmful diseases like cancer. However, being rich in antioxidants allows red saffron to restrain the growth of cancer cells. The drugs used in chemotherapy often fail to show effects at a fast pace. The use of saffron tends to make it easy for the body to respond to chemotherapy treatment by making cancer cells more sensitive.
It can help reduce PMS symptoms
PMS or premenstrual syndrome can be a very tough time for women of different age groups. PMS symptoms can be physical, emotional or even psychological. The aroma from saffron recipes can help in dealing with psychological symptoms like anxiety and stress hormone cortisol. Consuming 30 mg saffron can help reduce headache and pain associated with menstruation.
It may trigger quicker weight loss
An unhealthy lifestyle and an inactive routine can contribute towards health issues like obesity, pushing one towards stringent actions like weight-loss diets. Adding antioxidant-rich spices like saffron in daily meal plans can reduce appetite. A person is less likely to indulge in binging. Red saffron can also cause a significant reduction in body mass index and waist size.