Saffron is a storied “flower of health,” used in the treatment of more than ninety diseases and disorders throughout history and even today. Its healing power is attributed to crocin, a potently curative carotene that has even been shown to fight cancer.*
Saffron is a powerful aphrodisiac and boasts plenty of benefits for men’s health, and saffron milk and saffron tea are both delicious and excellent ways to deliver the healing power of saffron to the mind, body and soul.*
The Magical Benefits of Saffron*
- Saffron has many benefits to health and well-being, hence why it is known as the “flower of health.”
- Healers would often wash their hands with water infused with saffron to connect with its therapeutic energy before beginning a restorative ritual.
- As a practice of Indian Ayurvedic medicine, tea or food made with saffron is often served to those suffering from the flu and fever in hopes to hasten recovery.
- The Japanese put saffron in medicine capsules and use these capsules as a sleeping aid and also to treat Parkinson’s disease.
- The Chinese treasure saffron’s healing power as well, using it in traditional medicine as a digestive aid.
- Saffron contains powerful antioxidants and a dark orange carotene called crocin.
- Crocin contributes to saffron’s beautiful golden glow. The crocin within the herb is credited for giving saffron its amazing curative properties when it comes to cancer.
- The tradition of rinsing bed sheets with saffron is not only conducted to help with a restful night’s sleep, but studies have shown that it is also a helpful practice in fighting cancer.
- Crocin has been shown to trigger cell death within cancer cells, killing them from the inside out.
- As a bonus, crocin has also been connected with improving learning ability and memory retention.
- Saffron is used in regulating menstruation.
- A common remedy for menstrual cramps is to mix saffron with water until it forms a thick paste, then roll it into a lentil-sized ball and keep it in the genital area.
- Saffron is also an emmenagogue, meaning it can help begin the menstrual cycle.
- A little saffron paste on the forehead can help relieve headaches and tension.
- When this same paste is used on the chest it can help relieve colds and pneumonia.
- Saffron also has anti-inflammatory capabilities, can treat pain and sore gums, and even lessen fever.
- Saffron contains chemicals that affect the nerves directly and can calm nervousness and stress.
- Saffron can also increase a weak appetite.
- Saffron can also lower the risk of heart disease and contracting hepatitis, as well as act as a powerful immune booster.
Saffron During Pregnancy*
There has been an old wive’s tale that saffron can help with pregnancy. However, the facts seem to point out otherwise. While it has yet to be confirmed whether or not high doses of saffron are safe for pregnancy, saffron has been used historically as an abortifacient, meaning it can encourage abortion.
The crocin within saffron has a stimulating effect on the uterus, which can lead to premature labor. When tested on pregnant mice, crocin reduced the length and weight of fetuses. This resulted in retardation of growth and skeletal deformities.
Keeping all of this in mind, it’s safe to assume that saffron in large doses may present harm to the pregnancy. However, for those who have given birth, saffron is often used in parts of the world on a new mother’s breasts to increase milk production.
See the Video: The Queen’s Herb: Saffron Magical Properties and Uses
Saffron Benefits for Skin*
Saffron is a wonderful skin toning agent. It can encourage better circulation in the face, while also cleaning the skin of free radicals, which contribute to toned and firm skin. Saffron can also help with eliminating blackheads and unclogging pores. Soak saffron in rose water and apply it to the skin for amazing results.
It contains vitamins A, C, and B, which can help lighten the skin, and it absorbs moisture which can help keep the skin hydrated. It is also a powerful anti-inflammatory and can help combat skin conditions such as pimples, acne, and even Rosacea.
Saffron Benefits for Eyes*
Saffron can improve vision clarity and acuity and lessen sensitivity to light. Studies have shown that saffron has incredible potency when it comes to combating macular degeneration, as it can stall the decay of the macula cells, which are light sensitive, as well as reduce the chances one will end up with macular degeneration in their more advanced years.
Benefits of Saffron Tea*
Saffron tea can warm the soul and lift the spirit. It is a natural anti-depressant, so drink saffron tea when you’re looking to improve your mood and be happy! It can also help relieve gas and suppress stomach and menstrual cramps.
Just be sure to steep the saffron threads for at least twenty minutes to get its full effect, not to mention, that the longer it steeps, the stronger the flavor and the more intense the wonderful aroma. And once it’s brewed, you can even leave the threads in the tea.
Saffron Milk Benefits*
Saffron and milk go wonderfully together. Mix in a couple of threads of saffron into a warm cup of milk and get a good night’s sleep, as it acts as a mild sedative. Saffron milk can also improve the appetite and help with digestive issues, as well as relieve constipation. It improves blood circulation, and as milk is high in calcium, this drink can also help promote healthy, strong bones.
A glass of saffron with milk does wonders for the skin. It works from within to treat the underlying cause of skin problems, and saffron milk can also be used on the face as a moisturizer. It can also relieve chest pains, congestion, and menstrual cramps. Finally, it is the perfect drink to help soothe away depression and lift spirits.
Saffron Benefits for Men*
Saffron has amazing benefits when it comes to male virility and sexual health. It is a well-known aphrodisiac, and studies have shown that saffron can actually increase the motility of sperm as well as blood flow to the penis, increasing the chances of conceiving as well as enhancing sexual pleasure. On a side note, for men experiencing hair loss saffron has an added benefit – it can treat alopecia.
Saffron for Depression*
Saffron has many uses throughout history and in modern times as an excellent remedy for depression. The Romans and the Chinese often served saffron to women suffering from severe anxiety and hysteria.
Saffron contains chemicals that work with our brain’s neurotransmitters to enhance the effects that dopamine and norepinephrine have on the mind, making us happier. Saffron oil goes directly to the nervous system itself, helping to ease the strain of mental disorders, depression, and general stress.
Saffron Toxicity
When consuming saffron, moderation is key, as saffron is toxic in high doses. Anything more than 5 to 10-gram doses of saffron is severely toxic and can cause vomiting, intestinal cramping, paralysis, and bleeding in the uterus. An overdose of saffron has a narcotic effect, causing feelings of euphoria and ecstasy which eventually leads to temporary paralysis. Overdosing on saffron can also lead to premature labor and abortion in women who are pregnant.
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