5 Benefits of Red Gold or Saffron

Saffron is an antioxidant-rich spice obtained from the crocus flower.Crocus sativusKnown for its distinctive red color that turns golden when harvested and dried, saffron has been used in culinary, cosmetic and traditional medicine throughout history.

Researchers are beginning to investigate the benefits of saffron and its potential role in supporting mental health disorders, certain eye conditions, and heart health.

This article discusses the nutritional and medicinal benefits of saffron, where it can be found, and who should avoid it.

Benefits and Medicinal Uses of Saffron Spice

Saffron has a variety of medicinal uses, either as a supplement or as a spice in cooking. Researchers theorize that this may be due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, such as carotenoids (crocin) and terpenes (safranal). These protective compounds may help reduce inflammation, protect against the development of chronic disease, and support overall health.

Nutritional Profile

Since saffron is usually consumed in smaller amounts (e.g. when used as a spice), it is not considered a significant source of micro- or macronutrients.

Here is the content of 2 tablespoons of saffron:

• Calorie: 13
• Oil: 0.25 grams (g)
• Carbohydrates: 2.74 gr
• Fiber: 0.16 gr
• Protein: 0.48 gr
• C vitamin: 3.4 milligrams (mg)
• Manganese: 1.19 mg

Saffron is a solid source of manganese, a mineral that aids in energy metabolism and immune system function. A 2-tablespoon serving offers more than half of the daily recommended intake. It also meets approximately 4% of your daily vitamin C needs.

Supports Mental Health

Current evidence suggests that saffron’s crocin and safranal compounds may help increase mood-enhancing chemicals in the brain (such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine). At least one research review has found that saffron has a positive effect on symptoms of anxiety and depression when compared to placebo treatments. It may provide benefits similar to antidepressant medications.

Helps with Some Eye Disorders

Saffron may protect against some eye diseases and improve the symptoms of these diseases. Studies show that daily saffron supplements may improve vision in people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic maculopathy, both of which can lead to vision loss. Saffron supplements have also been shown to lower eye pressure in people with glaucoma, or chronic eye diseases that cause blindness.

Improves Sleep

Some research suggests that saffron may promote better sleep. One review found that saffron therapy appeared to be beneficial for sleep duration and quality. Researchers think it may work by promoting higher levels of melatonin (the sleep-regulating hormone) and triggering sleep-related receptors in the brain.

Benefits Heart Health

Saffron may also benefit heart health. Studies show that saffron helps reduce the risk of heart disease by strengthening the blood circulation system. It has been shown to lower blood pressure, blood sugar, and total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (“bad cholesterol”) levels.

Experts say that research has shown that saffron is a complementary supplement to conventional medical treatment for the prevention and care of heart diseases. Always consult your healthcare professional before adding saffron or other supplements to your diet.

Promotes Weight Management

Studies show that taking a daily saffron supplement may help reduce weight management factors such as appetite, body weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference in adolescents, obese people, and people with heart disease. Although the results are promising, more human clinical trials are needed before saffron can be recommended as an anti-obesity treatment.

Forms of Saffron Supplements

Saffron can be purchased as a supplement in a variety of different forms, including:

• Capsule
• Subtract
• Tablet
• Liquid
• Powder
• Tea

It is also produced in paste form for skin care or cosmetic purposes.

Who Should Avoid Saffron?

Saffron is generally considered safe for most healthy adults when taken in doses of less than 5 grams.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should avoid saffron. Some evidence suggests that saffron may have a miscarriage potential. There is currently not enough research to determine whether it is safe for breastfed babies.

If you consume saffron and notice numbness or tingling in your hands and feet, or a yellow tint to your eyes and skin, seek medical attention. This could be the result of severe saffron toxicity.

Where to Find Saffron

As a food source, saffron is naturally available as an herb or spice. In addition to being used as a food spice, Saffron is generally considered safe as a flavoring or coloring agent.

You can also find saffron as a supplement at pharmacies and natural food stores. Supplements are not regulated in the same way as drugs, so the safety and effectiveness of certain supplement products are not guaranteed.

Summary

Saffron, a uniquely colored spice, is rich in beneficial compounds. Research shows that its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may support heart health, certain mental health disorders, eye conditions, sleep quality, weight management, and more.

Although current evidence suggests that saffron is generally safe for most adults when taken in normal amounts, consult a health care professional before trying it for medicinal purposes. Avoid saffron if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.