This type of water uses one of the most expensive spices in the world, offering numerous health benefits such as mood improvement and cardiovascular health.
Saffron is a spice derived from the Crocus sativus plant, commonly cultivated in Iran, India, and Greece. The stigma of the flower is dark red, separated into dried threads, which add flavor to dishes and are used to make tea.
As one of the most expensive spices in the world, saffron is harvested by hand, requiring a large number of flowers and dried stigmas to produce just 1 kg of spice. The price of this spice ranges from $500 to $5000 for 450 grams, according to Healthline.
Humans have been using saffron for 3,500 years for health purposes.
Many historical records indicate that saffron has been used for 3,500 years for health benefits such as improving stomach issues, menstrual problems, and digestion. Saffron contains calcium, vitamin C, manganese, phosphorus, and potassium.
One effective way to harness saffron’s benefits is by making tea: use warm water at about 80 degrees Celsius, add 10-15 saffron threads for 500ml of water, and wait for the water to turn yellow before drinking in the morning or at night before bed.
Below are scientifically proven benefits of saffron tea.
Blood Sugar Control
A 2016 study found that saffron can lower blood sugar levels and increase insulin sensitivity. The abundant antioxidants in saffron also help combat oxidative stress and improve inflammation, which are causes of diabetes.
Cardiovascular Health
People in Mediterranean countries, where saffron is frequently used, have lower rates of heart disease compared to many regions worldwide. This may be due to the anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering properties of this spice. A 2021 review discovered that saffron could reduce hypertension and triglycerides, both of which are related to heart disease.
Saffron has been shown to improve mood.
Mood Enhancement and Brain Support
Saffron has been proven to improve mood, making you feel more energized when drinking a cup of saffron tea in the morning. This tea is also effective in treating mild to moderate depression symptoms and reducing anxiety.
Additionally, saffron may combat neurodegenerative disorders, slow cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s patients, and enhance brain health and memory.
Potential Cancer Prevention
In vitro studies have concluded that saffron and its compounds can kill colon cancer cells due to their antioxidants, which help neutralize harmful free radicals. This spice is also associated with preventing skin, bone marrow, prostate, lung, and cervical cancers.
Appetite Suppression and Weight Loss Support
In an 8-week study, the supplementation of saffron extract significantly reduced appetite, body mass index, waist circumference, and total fat mass. Women who consumed saffron tea felt fuller, snacked less, and lost weight.
This effect may stem from the spice’s ability to enhance mood, thereby reducing cravings for snacks. Health experts recommend combining saffron stigmas with a balanced, healthy diet to achieve desired weight.
Saffron is one of the rich sources of riboflavin, helping to maintain a healthy immune system.
Immune Boosting and Sleep Improvement
Saffron is one of the rich sources of riboflavin, a B vitamin that helps maintain a healthy immune system. Saffron tea also contains safranal, an antioxidant that can enhance antibacterial and antiviral activity in the body. Safranal has been shown to improve sleep quality, promote immune function, and contribute to better overall health.
In addition to the aforementioned benefits, saffron stigmas can also help women feel more comfortable during their menstrual cycle, improve skin health, benefit those suffering from allergic asthma, and aid in wound healing.
Precautions When Using Saffron Tea
Do not consume more than 1.5 grams of saffron stigmas for tea daily to avoid toxicity; the best dosage is 30mg. Some individuals may be allergic to saffron, so it is advisable to test for reactions before use. Pregnant women and patients about to undergo surgery should avoid saffron tea to prevent side effects.
