Saffron, also known as saffron flower stamen, is a spice with a strong aroma and special color. Today, Iran is the country with the largest annual production of saffron stamen in the world. This spice is also rich in antioxidants, bringing many health benefits, so saffron is commonly used in life.
Provides antioxidants
The majority of health claims surrounding saffron relate to specific, high levels of antioxidants.
According to a 2015 review, the active antioxidants include:
- Crocin
- Picrocrocin
- Safranal, along with kaempferol and crocetin compounds.
These antioxidants help fight oxidative stress and free radicals in the body. Under stress, oxidation and free radicals play a role in the development of many health conditions, including cancer and heart disease. And antioxidants like these can help preserve health.
Preventing nervous system disorders
Saffron antioxidants may play a role in protecting the body from disorders affecting the nervous system.
Studies in 2015 noted that saffron compounds, such as crocin, seem to reduce inflammation and oxidative damage in the brain, which may lead to beneficial effects.
A study in the journal Antioxidants found that saffron may theoretically help with Alzheimer’s symptoms due to both its memory enhancement properties and its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Accordingly, people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s who took saffron for 22 weeks had the same cognitive improvement as those who took donepezil and they also had fewer side effects.
Improve mood
There is also evidence that saffron type 1 can help improve mood and is a useful supplement to treat depression.
A study in the Journal of Behavioral and Brain Science found that saffron extract increased dopamine levels in the brain without changing the levels of other hormones, such as serotonin.
Another study found that taking 30mg of saffron a day could have the same effect as other mild to moderate depression medications, such as imipramine and fluoxetine.
Promote desire
Saffron may also increase libido and sexual function in both men and women. Researchers looked at saffron’s effects on male infertility and found that although it had a positive effect on erectile dysfunction and general sexual desire, it did not change. change the viability of semen. In addition, women who took 30mg of saffron every day for 4 weeks also significantly improved libido.
Promote weight loss
There is also some evidence that saffron may help promote weight loss and curb appetite. A study in the Journal of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Research shows that taking saffron extract helps people with coronary artery disease reduce their BMI, total fat mass and waist circumference.
