Discover Saffron Uses & Its Amazing Benefits

Discover Saffron Uses & Its Amazing Benefits

Saffron is a precious Indian spice which being slightly costlier than other ones has a plethora of therapeutic benefits at the same time. Generally referred as ‘Kesar’ in India, saffron is primarily available in the form of saffron threads, saffron tips and saffron powder in the supermarket. Proper selection of saffron is essential as there are chances that you might end up purchasing adulterated one. In this article, you will be able to reckon saffron uses and how to make the right selection of this spice. Moreover, you will also get know how to use saffron threads for preparing facial masks to improve the skin texture.

We have listed below saffron uses which you can go through to keep yourself up to date for gaining a wider knowledge on the benefits of saffron.

Builds a Strong Immune System

Saffron has several chemical components which are mainly found in plants that prevent certain diseases. It is said to be rich in minerals which include calcium, vitamins, proteins, etc., which are the necessary supplements for the body. Thus, saffron intake can build your immune system stronger and promote the overall well-being of the body when regularly added in the food that you eat.It even controls blood pressure and keeps a check on the heart diseases.

Saffron is Effective in Weight Loss

Out of the many saffron uses and benefits, utilizing it to lose weight is the most favourable one as weight problems are a common phenomenon among a majority of people. Incorporating saffron oil in your diet plan eventually controls your appetite as it contains a chemical called serotonin which counterattacks obesity.  Nutritionists advise consuming saffron oil in your daily diet for getting the beneficial results. Saffron helps you to get back into the shape and can prevent several negative traits that accompany obesity.

Helps in Fighting Mental Stress

Most of the people suffer from poor mental health due to excess pressure from the work or personal relationships. And thus, to combat that you can make use of saffron on a regular basis. This spice is Aphrodisiac in nature and has the tendency to control depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and other mental issues as well.

Improves Metabolism

Digestion problems can be easily tackled by the intake of saffron as it has certain nutrients and chemical compounds which enhance the metabolism rate and improve digestion. It acts as an anticonvulsant thus keeping digestion problems at bay.

Controls Diabetes

Saffron is anti-hyperglycemic in nature which is useful in regulating the blood sugar levels in the body and for improving the glucose intake. People who have diabetes should be regular with the saffron intake as it helps in controlling it.

Helping in Curing Respiratory Ailments

Respiratory diseases can have severe effects on your health and for those who have problems such as Asthma, cough, whooping cough or loosen phlegm; saffron is the best remedy for curing all of them. Include a few threads of saffron daily in your diet until you start seeing favourable outcomes.

Skin Benefits of Using Saffron

Saffron Uses for Radiant Skin

Saffron, as we all know, is the best source of skin lightening benefits and can be used in the following ways as listed below.

Make a mixture of a spoonful of sandalwood powder, 2-3 strands of saffron and milk.

Now, apply this mixture on your face after washing it for once with water.

Move your hands in circular motion and massage gently.

Let the mixture dry for 20 minutes and rinse it off.

Make sure to apply this mask for at least once a week to get the satisfactory results.

How to Use Saffron Threads for Treating Acne?

Saffron contains antifungal substances which make it the best treatment for curing blemishes and acne. Here are the steps to prepare a mask.

Make a fine paste of 5-6 basil leaves along with 10-13 strands of saffron

Now, apply this pack on the face and wash it off with cold water after 10-15 minutes.

For removing blemishes, you can apply saffron soaked milk on your face every twice a day daily until you see favourable results.

Saffron Uses For Dull Skin Treatment

Dull skin can be treated by preparing a mask of lemon and saffron. For this you can follow the given steps.

Add a few drops of lemon juice on a spoonful of saffron powder.

People with dry skin and make use of a few drops of milk instead.

Apply the mixture on your face, leave it off for 20 minutes and wash it with lukewarm water.

If you willing to use saffron for skin toning, then you can soak saffron strands in rosewater and then apply this solution on your skin after scrubbing.

Saffron Uses During Childbirth

Saffron uses during pregnancy can prove beneficial as it regulates the mood swings which are common during the pregnancy period. Another problem that women face is indigestion which can be controlled by drinking saffron milk. Here are some other benefits which can be availed.

Hormonal imbalances lead to pimples and skin darkening which can be cured by regular dose of saffron.

If women suffer hair fall during pregnancy, then they can use the paste of liquorice, milk, and saffron and apply it on the bald spots.

Asthma, allergies, congestion are bound to happen during pregnancy and hence saffron can prove beneficial for such cases.

Brushing the teeth during pregnancy might prove painful. And to cure that, you can grind the saffron strands and apply them on your gums to ease the pain and avoid bleeding.

Saffron is rich in Iron which is essential for the production of red blood cells. Anaemic women can include this herb in their regular diet to boost the hemoglobin levels in the blood.

How to Select The Pure Saffron Herb?

Most of the people fail to understand the difference between pure and adulterated saffron and for that, we have listed a few tips for you. Go through them.

Make sure the thread colour is dark red in colour and has orange tips with no traces of yellow.

Avoid purchasing saffron with white spots and yellow stamens.

Pure saffron stems are usually hard and brittle; ensure that you check this before buying it.

More when it comes to buying saffron powder; you should check for the strong aroma which is quite sweet.

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12 Benefits of Saffron during Pregnancy

12 Benefits of Saffron during Pregnancy

Saffron can be found very useful during pregnancy if it’s taken in a moderate quantity. Let’s walk through in detail:

1.      Busts mood swings: Hormonal factors influence a lot during pregnancy which makes you cranky and inactive. A few strands of saffron in milk would boost your blood flow and stimulate your brains which will definitely raise your spirit. Next time you experience jittery about your body image, grab a mouthful of saffron-dashed snack.

2.      Reducing blood pressure: Just adding 2 or 3 strands of saffron in milk during pregnancy would help in reducing the blood pressure in pregnant women. It helps in relaxing the muscles and acts as a uterine stimulant.

3.      Helps in digestion: Gastric issues, constipation and bloating are the common issues during pregnancy period. Regular intake of saffron will stimulate smooth blood flow to the digestive system and increases metabolism.

4.      Fight against morning sickness: This priceless spice helps to fight against nausea and dizziness. Try sipping a refreshing saffron tea to a cup of hot coffee.

5.      Acts as pain reliever: This pure and natural product – ‘saffron’ acts a pain reliever to those who are suffering from muscular and joint pains especially during pregnancy time. It has anti-spasmodic properties that helps in de-stressing the muscles and relieves joint/stomach pain.

6.      Shoot-out anemia: Most women are prone to anemia. This amazing spice is enriched with iron and other essential nutrients required for the formation of red blood cells. Regular consumption of saffron will raise your haemoglobin level.

7.      Stay away from heart – related problems: During pregnancy time, most women have cravings for junk foods and ultimately they are at the risk of fats being stored in their arteries. Saffron protects your heart from keeping the arteries free from fat deposits.

8.      Encourages healthy sleep: Try having a cup of warm saffron milk or tea before your sleep. Because, saffron stimulates the hormones and earns you a sound sleep.

9.      Relieves sore gums: Here is a tip to overcome bleeding gums. Take a few saffron strands, grind it well and apply on your gums which will relieve your pain while brushing your teeth.

10.  Free from allergies: Allergies affect most of the pregnant women to a greater extent. In order to get rid of allergic problems, try applying the paste of sandalwood and saffron on your body. A cup of warm saffron milk will relieve you from cough and congestion issues.

11.  Improves hair growth: Hair fall is another problem faced by most of the pregnant mothers. Add a pinch of saffron to milk and apply it on the head to support the hair growth.

12.  Beat the dark circles: Saffron contains a lightening property that can help you to lighten your dark circles. Soak a few saffron threads in 4 tablespoons of warm milk. Leave it to soak for two hours. Apply the mixture using cotton around your eyes and leave it on for an hour. Wash it away using rose water.

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Actual Benefits of Saffron during Pregnancy

Actual Benefits of Saffron during Pregnancy

Actual Benefits of Saffron:-

1.      Saffron acts as a good muscle relaxant which helps in pregnancy.

2.      Saffron improves digestion and appetite by supplying the blood uniformly to all the parts of the body. This way, you can tackle constipation and nausea.

3.      It forms a coat on the gastrointestinal tract and soothes the stomach from acidity.

4.      It helps to control cough and loosen the phlegm. As most pregnant women have stuffy nose and are prone to infection, saffron can help control common cold symptoms.

5.      It acts as an antidepressant and controls emotional stress in pregnant women.

6.      Saffron also aids in controlling your mood swings, if consumed every day.

7.      During pregnancy, skin becomes dry and dull. Saffron can be used in face packs to give a supple glowing skin.

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31 Surprising Health Benefits of Zaffran (Saffron)

31 Surprising Health Benefits of Zaffran (Saffron)

What is Kesar?

Saffron is known as Zafaran  or Kesar. The thread like part of Zafraan flower is used for many health and medicinal purposes. Zafraan is one of the most expensive spices in the world as maximum of its processing work is done through hand. Saffron is extremely valuable spice because of its distinct flavor, health and medicinal properties.

Zafraan is used in many culinary recipes worldwide due to its unique flavor which is happened due to the presence of chemical compounds such as picrocrocin and safranal. The most sought after herbal product is used in diseases like asthma, cough & cold, stomach ailments, insomnia, uterine bleeding, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, infertility, depression, cholesterol, flatulence,  etc. Zafraan contain more than 150 volatile compounds that is good for the overall well-being of the body. Saffron is widely grown in Iran, Turkey, Greece, France, Italy and Jammu & Kashmir of India.

Amazing benefits of Zafaran:-

1.      Saffron for hair loss:  The application of Zafraan over the scalp is good in treating of baldness (alopecia). The mix of saffron, milk and licorice when applied over the scalp is good in prevention of hair loss and hair growth. The application is also helpful in stimulating of hair growth.

2.      Saffron for radiant skin: Saffron is highly beneficial for radiant skin. It is suggested that one should make a face pack mixing of saffron (2 to 3 strands), milk (3 tsp) and sandalwood powder (1 tsp).  Apply the paste on your face, massage gently and left it for 15 minutes followed by washing with fresh water. It should be done once in week to have smooth and glow face.

3.      Saffron for glowing skin: Take 4-5 strands of saffron and soaked it into water for 2-3 hours. Now, use this mix over your face and massage gently. Wash it after 5 minutes. The process may be repeated twice or thrice a week for fairer skin.

4.      Saffron good for pimples: Make a paste of Zafraan ( 10 strands) and basil leaves (6-7 leaves). Apply the paste over your face and wash the same after 10 minutes. This application is good in prevention of acne, blemishes, pimples, wrinkles and other black spots from the face.

5.      Saffron as anti-oxidants: Saffron is having many antioxidants that are beneficial in contending of free radicals thereby helps in prevention of diseases and promotion of health.

6.      Saffron controls heart rate: Potassium in saffron is good in controlling heart beat by allowing to slow down thus protect the heart.

7.      Saffron for blood pressure: The zafraan spice contains many minerals such as cooper, potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, magnesium, zinc and selenium. Some of these are helpful in controlling blood pressure as well as in the formation of haemoglobin.

8.      Saffron for cancer prevention: Saffron is containing bio-chemical compounds such as zea-xanthin, lycopene, α- and β- carotene; all these are acts like as immune modulator and protect the human body from cancer.

9.      Saffron as stress buster: The presence of carotenoids is beneficial in boosting the level of immunity and reduces oxidant-induced stress.

10.  Saffron as antidepressant: Zafraan contains safranal and alfa-crocin, a volatile oil compound, effective in controlling depression and acts like as anticonvulsant. Kesar brings cheerfulness and wisdom in the body.

11.  Saffron for disease prevention: Saffron contains many bio-chemical compounds as antioxidants, which are good in contending of various diseases by controlling free radicals thus promotes overall well-being of the body.

12.  Saffron for detoxification: It has many therapeutic applications and in detoxification of the body. It is also used in body healing, cramps, spasms and spas.

13.  Saffron good for digestion: Saffron is good for digestion due to presence of multiple medicinal compounds and an anti-convulsant. It stimulates digestion. It is suggested that one should make a mix of water (1 litre) and saffron (1g) for strengthening the function of stomach. Saffron is also beneficial when the liver and spleen get enlarged.

14.  Saffron good for cellular functioning: Due to presence of many macro-micro nutrients, especially potassium and magnesium, it is helpful in the growth of cells and tissues. It is also helpful in repairing of cells in the body.

15.  Saffron for haemoglobin formation: saffron contains iron that is good in the haemoglobin in blood.

16.  Saffron for overall health: The presence of minerals such as cooper, potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, magnesium, zinc and selenium, promotes optimum health.

17.  Zafrran for fair complexion: Bathing with zafraan stands (soaked saffron strands for 20-30 minutes in water), is in improving your complexion.

18.  Saffron for pain management: Since the ancient times, zafraan is used as pain reliever. Periods related pains can be eased by taking tea or milk along with saffron.

19.  Saffron for toothache: Massaging the tooth with saffron and honey, helps to relieve pain from gums. It may be also applied with honey as well as glycerin to relax the toned parts of the mouth.

20.  Saffron for healthy lips: Saffron is among the few plant products, which is the biggest source of vitamin B2 (riboflavin). Taking of saffron on regular basis is helpful in prevention of throat soreness, swelling of tongues, cracking of lips, skin cracking and skin irritation.

21.  Saffron as analgesic: Saffron contains a sedative compound called safranal, which has greater impact on the nervous system and very helpful as analgesic.

22.  Saffron for colds: When saffron (0.5 g to 1 g) is mixed with warm water (1 litre) and drinking the same is helpful in curing of cough and cold.

23.  Saffron develops immunity: Saffron is having an appropriate percentage of vitamin C, which acts like as immunity booster and save you from various ailments.

24.  Refreshment: Due to its unique taste, it is used in many food recipes as well as refreshment purposes.

25.  Saffron nutritional value:  28 grams of saffron contains the following nutrition: Calories (87), carbohydrate (18g), protein (3g) and fiber (1g).

26.  Saffron for muscular problems: Saffron is used in curing of age related muscular degeneration. Saffron not only reduces the degeneration process but also helps in healing the damaged cells.

27.  Saffron for male vitality: Saffron is used to enhance men’s vitality. Even this magical herb has the ability to provide vigor to the older people.

28.  Saffron for neurological problems: Since the ancient times, saffron is used on the forehead because of its neurological benefits.

29.  Saffron for menses: Zafran is used to controlled blood loss during menstrual cycle.

30.  Saffron for arthritis: The auurvedic physicians prescribed saffron for arthritis patients. It is also good in controlling of asthma. Saffron helps to clear breath.

31.  Saffron for pregnancy: Saffron during pregnancy with milk is good for enhancing pelvic blood flow and reduces the occurrence of cramps, which is common during pregnancy.  Drinking of saffron milk helps to stimulate the production of serotonin that control mood swings, tension, stress and depression among pregnant mother.

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7 Saffron Health Benefits for Pregnant Women

7 Saffron Health Benefits for Pregnant Women

Saffron gives food and milk a great flavor. When drinking saffron in milk, you’ll be providing your body with a great source of:

Protein

Calcium

And both protein and calcium are very beneficial for the growth and health of your child. The great thing is that saffron provides a slew of benefits, including:

1.      Aids in Digestion: Saffron is known to aid in digestion. Women who often suffer from stomach issues while pregnant have found that saffron helps alleviate these digestive issues. In this case saffron allows women to be far more comfortable and sleep better at night, too.

2.      Stops Mood Swings: No one likes mood swings. No matter what you do, it can be difficult to go against nature and all of the hormones filling your body. Women are out of control of their mood swings when they’re pregnant, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t help ready and waiting for them. Saffron works as an antidepressant and has been shown to help increase a person’s mood.

3.      Manage Blood Pressure: Your heart rate will increase by 25% when pregnant while there will be 40% – 90% more blood pumped through the body. Blood pressure issues can occur, and while these issues aren’t always a concern, they can be when they go unchecked. Saffron contains both crocetin and potassium, both of which are scientifically proven to lower blood pressure.

4.      Alleviates Cramps: Cramps are not fun, and you’ll suffer from them the entire time you’re pregnant. I am not sure why women don’t eat saffron when they have cramps – it helps a lot. When eaten in small doses, saffron has shown to soothe cramps and act as an anti-spasmodic and a painkiller.

5.      Calm Morning Sickness: This is an anecdotal benefit, but a lot of women will add saffron to their morning tea. This is said to help alleviate the morning sickness of the drinker and helps to combat dizzy spells and nausea. It’s important to research the tea you’ll be drinking first to ensure that you’re drinking one that is both safe and healthy.

6.      Aids in a Better Sleep: Everyone wants to sleep better at night. And when you’re crampy and in pain, it can be impossible to have a good night of sleep. Many women have found that their sleep quality improves when they drink saffron milk. The mild sedative properties will work to relax mom-to-be and will promote sleep.

7.      Increase Iron Levels: Your body needsiron to remain healthy. Since you’re now eating for two, it’s even more important to have additional iron in your diet. A great way to get extra iron is to eat saffron. Optimal results are experienced when eating saffron with an iron-rich food, and since it’s packed with iron, it will help boost your hemoglobin levels quickly, too.

Saffron health benefits are well-known in India and around the world. When adding this herb into your diet, remember to consult with your physician first. If you’re suffering from a medical condition that may have an impact on your saffron intake and health, please also consult with your doctor to ensure a happy and healthy pregnancy.

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