6 Health Benefits of Saffron

Paula Gallagher on
Saffron has many potential health benefits.

You may know saffron as one of the most expensive spices in the world. Saffron is a spice that comes from the dried stigmas of the saffron crocus flower and each flower only has three stigmas. One of the reasons saffron is very expensive is because it takes around 75,000 of these flowers (that's over 225,000 stigmas!) to produce just one pound of saffron. This high cost is one reason why saffron is often referred to as the "golden spice."

Although saffron is used in recipes to make dishes colorful and tasty, it has also been used for centuries for its health benefits. Saffron is packed with beneficial compounds that have been shown to improve health and well-being.

Health Benefits of Saffron

    1. Supports Eye Health

    Saffron's vibrant red hue is attributed to its abundant carotenoids, including crocin and crocetin. These compounds have been linked to various eye health benefits. Saffron supplements have shown potential in improving vision, protecting against age-related macular degeneration, and reducing the risk of cataracts. The antioxidant properties of saffron help neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative damage to the eyes, promoting long-term ocular health.

    2. May Reduce Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety

    Studies suggest that taking a saffron extract supplement can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. A study found that 30 milligrams of saffron supplementation per day was just as effective as fluoxetine, a commonly prescribed medication for depression. This benefit is thought to stem from the ability of saffron to modulate serotonin levels in the brain.

    3. May Improve Symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

    PMS is a common condition affecting millions of women worldwide. Saffron has shown promise in reducing symptoms such as irritability, depression, and anxiety in women suffering from PMS. A study found that taking 30 milligrams of saffron per day for two menstrual cycles resulted in a significant decrease in PMS symptoms.

    4. May Enhance Brain Function

    Saffron has been found to improve cognitive function in both healthy individuals and those with Alzheimer's disease. One study found that taking 30 milligrams of saffron per day 4 four weeks significantly improved memory and sleep quality. Another study showed that saffron extract had a protective effect on cognitive function in Alzheimer's patients.

    5. Powerful Antioxidant

    Saffron contains carotenoids that have been shown to have anti-cancer properties. Several studies have found that saffron inhibits the growth of cancer cells in various types of cancer, including skin, lung, breast, ovarian, and colon cancers.

    6. May Lower Blood Pressure

    Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Saffron has been found to lower blood pressure in both healthy individuals and those with hypertension. One study showed that taking 100 milligrams of saffron per day for 8 weeks resulted in a significant decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

    While more research is needed to confirm these benefits, saffron shows promise as a natural alternative to traditional medications. Speak with a health care practitioner before taking any supplement.

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