Saffron, commonly known as Kesar in India, is a treasure trove of health benefits. The English name saffron comes from the Arabic word Zaffran. This delicate spice has been part of our rich culinary heritage and beauty regimen since ancient times, owing to its great wellness benefits.
Saffron strands come from this lovely flower called Crocus sativus, which produces three slim stigmas. Once the flowers are harvested, these stigmas are plucked from the blooms and dried to get pure Kesar. Approximately 16000 flowers are required to produce one kg of these thin saffron strands, making it one of the most expensive spices. However, it can be made into powder or used as strands to derive wholesome benefits.
Kesar is a perennial plant and belongs to the Iridaceae family. A fabulous addition in taste and colouring, it is used as a seasoning or natural colouring additive in umpteen delicacies. With a solid, exotic aroma and a bitter taste, it can also be a beautiful concoction or an addition to any liquid of your choice. Besides being a fabulous colouring additive, it has many health benefits. Extremely rich in plant compounds, Saffron's array of antioxidants includes crocetin, crocin, safranal, and kemper.
Kesar is also replete with carminative benefits besides being very effective in asthmatic treatment and aiding lung functions. The herb is also an apoptogenic agent and has several natural immunity boosters that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. In addition, they fight oxidative stress from harmful environments and pollutants around the body. In ancient times, people used these strands in opioid preparations, as Kesar is a potent analgesic and can combat many mild to severe body aches. One of the well-known benefits of this spice is its aphrodisiac properties.
Also Read: 5 Incredible Ways Saffron Helps You Get Beautiful Skin
Key Health Benefits Of Kesar Or Saffron
Like other spices, Kesar is available in almost every Indian kitchen, thanks to its wholesome wellness benefits. Here are some of them:
Stimulates Sleep
For an undisturbed sleep, combine the saffron powder with milk and turmeric. Alternatively, boil a few strands with a pinch of turmeric and drink it every night before going to sleep. Let the Saffron stay in the milk for some time. Not only will it add it helps induce sleep, but it will also add to the taste.
Soothes Seasonal Flu
Add powdered Saffron to hot or warm water and leave it for a few minutes. The decoction can be added to any beverage or consumed as a stand-alone drink to beat the common cold and flu. It can also be finished in the morning to smooth the bowel movement and aid digestion.
Strengthens Immunity
Owing to its incredible medicinal properties, Saffron is an effective spice that helps improve body immunity levels. Take a Few saffron strands and boil them with some basil leaves for a few minutes. The carotenoids present in the saffron aid cellular immunity functions, thus keeping the body strong to fight all bacterial and viral infections.
Improves Heart Health
Loaded with antioxidants and potassium, these orange strands can help control blood pressure by dilating the blood vessels. Saffron supplements can be taken with a recommendation or advice from a health practitioner. Saffron can also be added to a decoction of other heart-healthy herbs or consumed alone daily, which makes it very helpful in removing any blockage in the arteries, thus reducing the chances of high blood pressure and heart attack.
Reduces Acne And Dark Spots
Kesar can be a potent ingredient in your skincare night routine. When used topically, it will magically boost skin health. Soak some saffron strands for a few hours with some sandalwood powder. Then, make them into a paste and apply them evenly on the skin. This is a very effective remedy for chronic acne as both herbs have strong anti-bacterial properties. Kesar and turmeric used on the skin daily aid skin glow and make it supple.
Side Effects
Though Saffron has no severe side effects when consumed in limited quantities, it is always best to consult a doctor before adding this herb to your daily diet if you have any underlying health issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main health benefits of saffron?
Saffron may help improve mood, support digestion, enhance memory, regulate menstrual cycles, and act as a powerful antioxidant when consumed in moderation.
How is saffron used in skincare?
Saffron is commonly used in face packs, creams, and serums to help brighten skin, reduce pigmentation, and improve overall complexion due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Are there any side effects of consuming saffron?
Excessive intake of saffron may cause dizziness, nausea, dry mouth, or allergic reactions. Pregnant women should consult a doctor before use, as high doses may not be safe.
References
Saffron (Crocus sativus L.): A Source of Nutrients for Health and for the Treatment of Neuropsychiatric and Age-Related Diseases
Adil El Midaoui
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8839854/
https://journals.lww.com/nutritiontodayonline/fulltext/2020/11000/saffron__potential_health_benefits.9.aspx
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