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One of the oldest spices of the world
Saffron is one of the oldest, most precious and most costly spices. The dried stigma of Crocus sativus, a member of the iridaceae family, are used. Only, the sensitive flower and especially the sensitive stigma easily break – that’s why saffron has to be harvested manually. For 1 kg saffron it takes about 15,000 flowers – this explains the high price. Saffron has to be carefully dosed; a too high dose may have undesired side effects. According to recommendations adults should not eat more than 1.5 g per day, children significantly less. The power of the spice can also be seen in the fact that only 1 g of saffron is able to dye 100 l water deep yellow. But, besides the coloring effect for example for clothes, the plant has a considerable amount of healing powers. Already 2600 BC the Chinese reported about a potency and energy enhancing effect of saffron. The Babylonians and the Assyrians, too, already knew about the multiple benefits of this plant. Across all cultures, the healing effects of saffron have been proved up until our modern times. In days of yore the Phoenicians used the spice as an offering to their goddess of love, Astarte, when suffering under lovesickness; or the Romans bathed in saffron water and used it as an elixir of beauty. Nowadays, science confirms the many positive effects of saffron on our health.
Healing effect
Different studies show that
- saffron has a proved growth retarding effect on tumors. Due to the abundant nutrients it strengthens all body cells, supports cell renewal as well as repair of cell damages and serves as an antioxidant. Furthermore it was recognizable in some studies that the tumor marker was much more favorable after an intake of saffron.
- saffron supports blood circulation and so may have a preventive effect against atherosclerosis. Due to the minerals contained (potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, magnesium, zinc and selenium) saffron positively influences blood, blood pressure and heart frequency. Furthermore, the blood circulation of the eyes is increased – this might have a preventive effect to a macular degeneration.
- saffron may have a calming and nervine effect. Out of this reason it is supportive when suffering under disturbances to fall asleep and/or to sleep through. It also decreases the stress level. The positive effects on our nervous system might also be noticeable in enhancing memory functions and learning can be increased.
- saffron has a stimulating effect and might positively influence depressions and anxiety.
- saffron can be helpful with a constant tension, tough coughing and head ache due to its antispasmodic effect.
- saffron cleans the kidney and the bladder, strengthens the liver and encourages digestion.
- saffron stimulates passion and increases male fertility.
- saffron may improve menstrual complaints and irregularity. Saffron must not be eaten during pregnancy since it leads to an increased risk of miscarriage.
- saffron improves complexion and prevents from acne and skin impurities. Furthermore, saffron is said to be helpful against hair loss.
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Sources: www.kraeuter-verzeichnis.de/kraeuter/safran.shtml
Imagesource: @fotolia
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