Saffron is one of the herbs richest in health benefits, but it is one of the most expensive types of all.
According to what was stated on the mdanderson website, saffron is called red gold because it is expensive and difficult to produce. The red hairs pick saffron flowers by hand, and one study indicates that producing one pound of saffron requires about 75,000 flowers.
Benefits of saffron
Saffron contains antioxidants and other bioactive compounds. Antioxidants help reduce free radicals and, thus, reduce damage to the body’s cells.
Saffron has an anti-inflammatory effect and has been used historically to treat pain and fever.
Researchers are exploring the possibility of using saffron to treat certain health conditions, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and depression.
Researchers are studying the possibility of using saffron to improve short-term memory and cognitive functions in people with neurodegenerative disorders and memory disorders.
Some of the antioxidants in saffron have shown benefits against cancer cells. However, it is unclear whether this is beneficial for humans.
Risks and contraindications of saffron
Some people should avoid high doses of saffron, including:
Pregnant women
People with kidney disorders
People with bleeding disorders or at risk of bleeding disorders
These high doses of saffron are often found in supplements, not food.
Saffron may interact with some medications, including some cancer treatments and some mental health medications. If you have cancer, talk to your health care team about any nutritional supplements you use.
Side effects
It is noteworthy that high doses of saffron supplements or its extract may lead to side effects such as:
Change in appetite
Causes headache
Symptoms of anxiety
Blood thinning
These side effects do not occur as a result of regularly eating foods containing saffron spices. Rather, they may occur when eating large amounts of saffron extract. This is due to the compounds found in saffron extract.
