Saffron, the exquisite spice known as the “golden treasure,” has been cherished for centuries for its culinary delights and medicinal properties. Derived from the flower of Crocus sativus, saffron’s vibrant hue and distinct flavor have made it a prized ingredient in various cuisines worldwide. I remember my friends father making the most delicious kebabs in New Zealand and how much love he had for the saffron in his recipe! Beyond its culinary uses, saffron has also been revered for its potential health benefits, with research suggesting that it can positively impact both the body and mind. In this blog post, we’ll explore the remarkable benefits of saffron for overall well-being and delve into how this precious spice can enrich our lives.
1.Boosts Mood and Fights Depression
Saffron has been traditionally used as an herbal remedy to uplift the mood and combat symptoms of depression. Studies have shown that saffron contains bioactive compounds, including safranal and crocin, which may have antidepressant effects by regulating neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine in the brain. Regular consumption of saffron has been associated with improved mood, reduced anxiety, and an overall sense of well-being.
2. Supports Cognitive Function
The potent antioxidants in saffron, particularly crocin and crocetin, have demonstrated neuroprotective properties. These compounds may help protect brain cells from oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially slowing down cognitive decline and reducing the risk of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease. Including saffron in your diet may help support cognitive function and promote better memory and learning abilities.
3. Relieves PMS Symptoms
For centuries, saffron has been used to alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in traditional medicine. Scientific studies have indicated that saffron may help reduce mood swings, irritability, and physical discomfort associated with PMS. The spice’s mood-enhancing properties play a role in easing emotional symptoms, while its anti-inflammatory properties may help relieve physical discomfort during this time of the menstrual cycle. I don’t know about you, but during that time of the month I can use the extra support.
4. Aids in Weight Management
Saffron has been investigated for its potential in aiding weight management. Some studies suggest that saffron can help control appetite and reduce snacking between meals. It is believed that saffron’s influence on serotonin levels in the brain contributes to feelings of fullness and satisfaction, leading to reduced calorie intake and potential weight loss.
5. Enhances Heart Health
Research has shown that saffron may have beneficial effects on heart health. It can help lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The spice’s active compounds are believed to promote blood vessel dilation and reduce inflammation, contributing to better heart function and a healthier circulatory system. With so many struggling with inflammation, this alone is such a great benefit to incorporating this spice into your diet or via a supplement.
6. Supports Vision Health
The carotenoids found in saffron, including zeaxanthin and lutein, have been linked to promoting eye health. These antioxidants help protect the retina from damage caused by oxidative stress and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Regular saffron consumption may contribute to maintaining clear vision and reducing the risk of eye disorders.
7. Relieves Digestive Discomfort
In traditional medicine, saffron has been utilized to alleviate digestive issues such as indigestion and bloating. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe the digestive system and reduce discomfort. Saffron may also stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes, promoting better nutrient absorption and overall digestive health. We all know gut health is root health.
8. Natural Aphrodisiac
This is one benefit I had no idea about. Did you know that saffron has a long history as an aphrodisiac in various cultures. Its ability to enhance mood, reduce stress, and promote relaxation can positively influence libido and sexual desire. While more research is needed in this area, saffron’s traditional reputation as an aphrodisiac continues to intrigue and inspire.
From its mesmerizing hue to its myriad of health benefits, saffron has earned its status as one of the world’s most prized spices. Whether in culinary masterpieces or herbal remedies, saffron has the power to uplift both the body and mind. Its potential to boost mood, support cognitive function, alleviate PMS symptoms, aid in weight management, enhance heart health, support vision, and relieve digestive discomfort makes it a truly golden treasure for our overall well-being.
We have incorporated saffron with supplements we trust, some of our favourites are:
Wild Wholistic – Elevated Mind Supplement with a high potency saffron extract. You can find it {here}. Use discount code ROXANNE.
Who is Elevated Mind for?
For those who suffer from mild to medium depression, deal with a lot of stressors, have brain fog, anxiety, memory issues or just need a daily support enhancing their mind & mood and support their overall well being.
Stabilizing adaptogens reduce the bodys stress response and promote overall balance.
Saffron, turmeric, and ginkgo biloba are all adaptogens. Adaptogens can combat fatigue, enhance mental performance, ease depression and anxiety, and help you thrive rather than just muddle through. They can help you deal with stress in a healthy way.
Calming nervines can allow you to take a breath.
Nervines are herbs that nourish and support the central nervous system. Saffron and ginkgo biloba are both nervines that can help you find relaxation and calm, so you can enjoy normal and healthful cycles of activity and rest.
Cognitive enhancing nootropics have a beneficial effect on brain function.
Nootropics can boost memory, motivation, creativity, alertness, and general cognitive function. The elevated mind formula can have diverse and powerful benefits. It can increase the growth of new neurons, fight various degenerative processes in your brain, and boost serotonin and dopamine neurotransmitters.
Fulvic acid helps your body gain maximum benefits.Acting as a carrier from the digestive tract to the bloodstream, fulvic acid increases the absorption of turmeric, ginkgo biloba, and saffron… as well as amino acids, minerals, and vitamins from digested foods. However, Fulvic acid does more than just enhancing absorbtion of ingredients. It contains minerals, trace minerals, trace elements, electrolytes, amino acids, additional organic and amino acids, plus 22 flavonoids.
Another supplement we turn to is happy juice & mood + from the mental wellness company. We recently started this regimen and we are loving it. You can find a custom shopping cart I’ve created with happy juice + mood plus {here}, my discount code is automatically applied.
Happy juice is one easy-to-mix, mood-supporting drink! Designed to target the gut-brain axis, Happy Juice is the tastiest way to optimize your mental wellness. It consists of 3 different products:
Mentabiotics: The most comprehensive combination of unique strains of probiotics, prebiotics, and phytobiotics that have been scientifically shown to improve mental wellness.
Edge: Synergistically potent, brain-boosting ingredients for an all-natural nootropic that supports motivation.
Energy +: Powered by Guayusa or Rooibos for clear, focused, reliably awesome, all-natural energy.
Now the mood + for kids (that adults can also use) is not part of the happy juice pack, it is something we added on after learning more about it, for extra support. And of course it contains saffron! Mood+ kids is a supplement that features an all-natural Mood Boost Proprietary Blend, which includes affron®, a patented and clinically studied premium saffron stigma extract that is shown to:
- Normalize “feel-good” neurotransmitter activity
- Reduce oxidative stress
- Promotes healthy stress response
You can find a custom cart I created with both Mood + and Mood + kids for you if you’d like to try them out too, shop the cart {here}.
We hope you’ve enjoyed learning more about saffron and a few of our favourite supplements!
Roxanne xo
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