1. While saffron’s exact origin is uncertain, its medicinal use is well-documented throughout history. Cleopatra bathed in saffron-soaked water for its supposed beauty and aphrodisiac qualities, and Greco-Roman physicians prescribed it to treat a range of ailments, such as:

• Urinary tract infections
• Stomach issues
• Wounds
• Depression

Saffron is a type of crocus flower. The spice is made from the dried, threadlike parts of the flower. Because it takes 75,000 flowers to get a single pound of saffron, it’s considered the world’s most expensive spice.

Saffron is commonly used as a coloring or flavoring agent, but it has also been used therapeutically for thousands of years. Now, you can find saffron in oral supplement form to treat a variety of health issues.

Health benefits of saffron :

1 . Helps ease stress and anxiety and promotes mental wellbeing

Various studies have shown that the stigma of the plant, the actual saffron, and its petals can improve mood. Safranal and crocin, two compounds present in saffron, regulate neurochemicals such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine which help reduce symptoms in mild to moderate depression. It affects the endocrine system and helps reduce stress and anxiety. Since ancient times, people have been using saffron to relax the mind and promote peaceful sleep due to its sedative properties. Saffron also helps with learning and memory retention.

2 . Helps prevent Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration, America’s leading cause of blindness, is an age-related condition caused by degenerating cells in an area of the eye known as the macula. Crocin and crocheting found in saffron can help prevent cell damage and delay the age-related decline in the cells of the eye as a whole.

3 . Skin benefits

Loaded with antioxidants keeping the skin supple and radiant, a mixture of saffron and honey applied to the skin can help reduce the effects of acne, fade scars, dark spots, and other skin blemishes. Saffron also has vitamin B2 which can help heal chapped lips.

4 . Aids breathing and respiratory ailments

It can reduce coughing and symptoms of the common cold. It acts as an expectorant which loosens the phlegm from the lungs and throat. Saffron also has the quality to act as an anti-inflammatory substance as well as a stimulant. Both qualities can be beneficial against asthma (always consult a doctor first if you have difficulty breathing).

5 . Relieves pain

As saffron is anti-inflammatory it can help relieve pain in some instances. Saffron also carries antiseptic qualities and the compound safranal that can relieve toothache and even provide a mild sedative effect. It is used in some countries as a relaxant and natural sleep aid.

6 . Good for digestion

Saffron is known for treating upset stomachs and flatulence. It is good for liver health and helps remedy constipation and bloating.

If you have health concerns or are showing symptoms always seek advice from a medical professional.