SAFFRON PROPERTIES AND CURIOSITIES

We mentioned crocin being useful against depression and for prevention of some brain degenerative diseases. But saffron also seems to be useful against menstrual pain, for arterial plaques reduction, it helps to overcome insomnia and it can assist erectile function.

Recent studies recommend it as adjuvant in the fight against Parkinson’s, Alzheimer, hepatitis, diabetes and simple flu. It lowers the levels of 

bad cholesterol in the blood and it is used in weight loss diets.

It is rich in vitamins: C – B6 – B2 – B1

On top of that it boasts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Saffron-based herbal teas and infusions have a good effect against anxiety and mood swings. Finally, it is useful against car sickness and it improves digestive process.

Last, but not least, saffron is aphrodisiac.

  • Antioxidant power There are many plant compounds inside saffron which act as antioxidants. Basically, it releases molecules that help cells by protecting them from free radicals and oxidative stress.
  • It affects mood and help fight depressionRecent studies identify saffron as an excellent aid in treating depression symptoms, and a regular consumption, 30mg per day, in many cases it could replace conventional medicines without causing any collateral disorders.
  • It can be a good help in the fight against cancerSaffron has a high content of antioxidants that help neutralize harmful free radicals. Since these free radicals are responsible for chronic diseases such as cancer, advantage of its use can easily be deduced. Some in vitro studies have shown that saffron kills some cancer cells that manifest themselves especially in case of oncological colon disease, by suppressing its aggravation. The same beneficial effect has been shown with skin, bone marrow, prostate, lung, breast and cervix. Crocin, present in high quantities in stigmas, also helps to make cancer cells more sensitive to chemotherapy treatments.
  • Helps in premenstrual syndromeIt helps with classic headaches, irritability and menstrual period pain by also lowering cortisol (stress hormone) levels. Fine modulo
  • Aphrodisiac powersIt improves both erectile function in men and libido in women.
  • It helps to reduce sense of appetite and assists in diets aimed at weight reduction. Having a strong capability to interact with mood by lowering stress hormone, it seems that regular saffron intake calms sense of hunger. Medical studies have not yet deepened correlation between spice and sense of appetite. The result, however, is certain.

IN DETAIL…

Saffron is rich in carotenoids found especially in yellow, orange or red color plants such as carrots.

Specifically saffron is rich in:

– Picrocrocin that gives bitter aftertaste. Its presence is linked to product drying and storage level.

– Safranal that gives spice its typical aroma. It is an essential oil that tends to evaporate overtime lowering saffron flavoring power. As soon as the flower has been picked, this substance is not present but increases throughout the drying process. 

– Crucins is giving color to the spice. It is calculated that saffron has a remarkable 8% carotenoid content, compared with just 0,008 in carrots. Saffron therefore has the highest carotenoid content. In short, it is more effective than vitamin C or E directly intaken. The high content of active ingredients helps proper 

functioning of the digestive system, increasing bile and gastric juices secretion. 

– Lycopene, which helps protect arteries in cardiovascular field. Recent studies have associated this substance with protective treatments against prostate cancer.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Whereas saffron is incredibly healthy in moderate quantities, in massive doses could be even lethal. The maximum daily dose is 1.5 grams. 20 grams a day can kill you!

DID YOU KNOW THAT

If you suffer from anxiety and insomnia….

Put a pinch of saffron in hot water infusion for about ten minutes. Away from meals is a cure-all. If you also add some passion flower and lemon balm you will have sweet dreams too!

 

Do you feel down but your diet does not allow eating some chocolate? 

Two teaspoons of honey and a pinch of saffron will help. No sense of guilt, lots of energy and good mood!

 

Do you have light or red hair but they are dull and opaque?
In cosmetics it is used as nourishing masks together with avocado, olive oil and 2 teaspoons of honey.

If you suffer from anxiety and insomnia

Left a pinch of saffron in hot water to rest for about ten minutes. Away from meals is a cure-all. If you also add some passiflora and melissa you will have beautiful dreams too!

Do you feel down but the your diet does not grant chocolates?

Two teaspoons of honey and a pinch of saffron. No sense of guilt, lots of energy and good humour!

Do you have light or red hair but they are dull and opaque?

 In cosmetics it is used as nutritious masks along with avocado, olive oil and 2 teaspoons of honey.

PRODUCT STORAGE

Saffron should be stored in a dry place and away from light and heat sources. It can be stored up to two years after harvest. The product has no expiration date, but obviously overtime its organoleptic qualities start to fade and the product diminishes its original taste than just after having been dried. The bright red color of the new harvest over time gets darker.