What are the benefits of saffron?
Where is saffron used?
Saffron, the medicinal herb of the Far East, was used in ancient times to treat pain, digestive problems and even high blood pressure.
You can learn the benefits of saffron, one of today's most popular spices, from Expert Dietitian Şebnem Kandıralı Yıldırım.
What is saffron?
Saffron is derived from the crocus sativus plant and contains more than 150 known volatile compounds. The best known compounds are crocin and safranal, both of which are used therapeutically.
What are the benefits of saffron?
Has anti-cancer properties
Saffron is rich in carotenoids. Its two main carotenoids are crocin and crocetin, imparting a rich yellow color to foods. Studies show that it has anti-cancer properties. Studies have shown that saffron has an anti-proliferative effect against prostate and breast cancer. It has also been found to suppress the growth of leukemia cells and have a pro-apoptotic (inducing programmed cell death) effect against lung cancer.
Saffron regulates appetite
Those trying to lose weight can try saffron extract. It has been observed that nutrient cravings are eliminated at the molecular level. In a placebo-controlled double-blind study, it was found that the number of snacking episodes was reduced by 55% in women who took saffron extract. In addition, it was observed that it lost an average of 1 kg for 8 weeks. Saffron eliminates the desire to snack by targeting the serotonergic system of the brain. This system affects appetite, mood, and even sugar cravings.
Saffron has anti-depressant effects
In traditional Persian medicine, saffron was used as an anti-depressant. Current studies confirm that saffron is beneficial for improving mood. In a 6-week study, patients took 30 mg of saffron extract daily. The researchers found that the symptoms of depression were significantly reduced and suggested that it is a recommended treatment for mild to moderate depressive states. It has been shown that saffron is equally effective with the depression drug generally used in mild and moderate depression, and it has been found to alleviate the sexual side effects that occur.
Saffron enhances memory functions
Animal studies show that saffron has a strong effect against dementia and memory loss. Improvements in learning capacity and memory were observed in aged mice given saffron extract. In addition, in adult mice, saffron inhibits the enzyme acetylcholinetransferase, which breaks down acetylcholine. Cognitive benefits have been seen in Alzheimer's patients. In a clinical study, it has been shown to be as beneficial as the traditional Alzheimer's drug in mild to moderate Alzheimer's patients.
What are the side effects and safety of saffron?
It is safe for most individuals when taken by mouth for up to 6 weeks. Some possible side effects may include dry mouth, anxiety, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, change in appetite and headache. Some people may experience allergic reactions. When taken orally in high amounts, it causes poisoning, yellowing of the skin, eyes, mucous membranes, vomiting, dizziness, bloody diarrhea, bleeding and numbness in the nose, lips and eyelids. Doses such as 12-20 grams cause death. In diseases such as depression and Alzheimer's, daily use should not exceed 30 mg.