Saffron Health Benefits: The Power Within The Crocus

Kindi Lantz June 22, 2018

Saffron Health Benefits: The Power Within The Crocus

The most valuable spice in the world has been reported to have the ability to do much more than add astounding flavor and color to your food. You may be surprised at some of the many saffron health benefits people have been talking about.

I’ve heard of folks eliminating saffron threads from recipes because they aren’t willing to pay the price for this glorious spice. This simply doesn’t make sense to me, and for another reason than the fact that there is no substitute for the unique flavor of saffron. Sure, pound-for-pound, saffron might be the most expensive spice in the world but it may have the ability to do so much more than add an unequaled flavor and vibrant pop of color to dishes. A multitude of studies support the theory that Saffron aids in soothing a wide variety of ailments and improving overall immunity.

Here’s a list of some of the many suggested saffron health benefits:

Pain Relief

The Wall Street Journal reported that saffron has been found to be more effective in reducing or eliminating pain than anti-inflammatory drugs. NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like Ibuprofen, Naproxen, and the like) have been associated with increased risk of stomach bleeding, heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure.

What’s more, saffron actually increased strength during strenuous exercise. Decrease pain without the increased risk of heart disease and stomach bleeding AND get stronger—yes, please! Wouldn’t you rather sip on a fragrant saffron broth post workout than pay for pills that might be setting you up for long-term health risks?

Diabetes Management and Avoidance

Globally, reported cases of diabetes have increased dramatically over the last few decades, approaching epidemic proportions. Diet and exercise have been found to improve symptoms for diabetics and pre-diabetics but several studies have also found that incorporating saffron can bring further relief to patients—helping them to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. So whether you currently have diabetes or at risk for developing it, add a bit of saffron to those healthy meals and follow it up with some exercise!

Alleviation of Depression and Anxiety Symptoms

Psychology Today mentions that “the compounds safranal and crocin in the crocus plant may exert anti-depressant effects by keeping balanced levels of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin”. It was found to reduce depression symptoms nearly as well as conventional antidepressants but without the dreaded side effects. Even for those who don’t suffer from depression, saffron has been found to give a boost to mood, provide a calming effect, and, dare I say it, increase sex drive!

Slows Aging

With the money spent on anti-aging cosmetics, it’s hard to imagine anyone would complain about the price of a delicious spice that could potentially do the same thing! Saffron is extremely high in antioxidants and iron which increases circulation and allows it to aid in oxygenation of the cells! The high levels of carotenoids, safranal, and crocin have also been said to improve cell function, regeneration, and repair. So rather than looking for that Fountain of Youth, fill your cup with some soothing Saffron Tea.

Boosts Immunity

Vitamin C is just one of the many properties found in saffron that is known to directly boost immunity. Though, the spice also indirectly helps boost immunity through its array of reported health benefits. When we are happier and have less anxiety, we are healthier. When our bodies are able to properly digest and metabolize the foods we take in, we are healthier. When we are able to experience a sense of calmness, we sleep better, which makes us healthier. When we aren’t ailed by pain and inflammation, our bodies are able to function the way they should, so we are healthier. And when our cells can breathe—well, so can we!

There are so many other claims of saffron health benefits that we don’t have time to cover fully here. Among them:

• Treating high cholesterol
• Improving vision
• Protecting the heart
• Treating and preventing cancer
• Increasing bone strength
• Treating Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative disorders
• Improving gastrointestinal function and reducing symptoms of  related disorders 

The price for saffron doesn’t seem so steep when you compare it to the cost of pharmaceuticals and they don’t even contain a divine flavor! Now that you are aware of the many ways saffron may be able to improve your health, the benefits of the spice might just outweigh the cost.

It's important to note that Saffron should not be used as a treatment without first consulting your physician.

Experience the unmatched flavor and many saffron health benefits!