Health is wealth ( Small Changes, Big Impact )
All around the world, we eat a wide variety of spices, including salt, chilli pepper, and cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, black pepper, coriander, nutmeg, and turmeric. Ground spices are also utilized in Indian cuisine.
Our bodies depend heavily on spices; an Indian meal would be incomplete without them. Spices provide a plethora of health benefits that can improve our lives in several ways.
People in the past knew a great deal about using different species for various reasons. Using mashed garlic as an example, it can be applied to snake bites. It works quite well.
Similar to how turmeric repairs internal harm.
Speaking of spices, there is one that is widely consumed worldwide and has a sizable market.
One of the more expensive and royal spices, kesar has more advantages.
a spice of the purest, finest form.
Approximately 3,000 years ago, it originated in Persia. It is a symbol of power and wealth. Saffron was a sign of opulence, power, and prosperity in ancient Persia. The aristocracy and monarchy used it frequently.
Offerings to the gods and religious rites both included saffron. For thousands of years, saffron has been a crucial part of Ayurvedic medicine in India, where it is used to treat a wide range of illnesses and improve general health.
Hindu religious ceremonies and rituals make use of saffron. It is frequently used to purify holy places and placed as a tilak on the forehead.
A staple of many Indian meals, such as biryanis, desserts, and traditional drinks, is saffron.
Saffron was used to treat a variety of illnesses in medieval Europe, including colds, smallpox, and plague. Along with cooking, it was also used to make cosmetics and perfumes.
Iran is still the world’s leading producer of saffron, with Greece, Spain, Italy, and India—especially the Kashmir region—following. Saffron’s culinary applications, therapeutic qualities and use as a natural color keep it highly sought for.
harnessing the benefits of kesar: Refreshing drinks to elevate summer
Health benefits of saffron?
1. An Effective Antioxidant
There is a remarkable range of plant components found in saffron. These could function as chemicals known as antioxidants, which shield your cells from oxidative stress and free radical damage.
Several potent antioxidants found in saffron include Reliable Source:
kaempferol, picrocrocin, safranal, and crocin
The most noteworthy antioxidant in saffron is probably crocin.
It gives saffron its red hue, and studies indicate it may have antidepressant qualities as well as the ability to shield brain tissue from gradual deterioration.
Safranal may be beneficial for a number of medical ailments, according to research, including asthma, hypertension, depression, cancer, and inflammation
Finally, the petals of saffron flowers contain kaempferol. This substance may strengthen your immune system and shield your body from a variety of viruses, such as Reliable Source:
Hepatitis B virus
HIV stands for respiratory syncytial virus.
2. May alleviate depression symptoms and elevate mood
One moniker for saffron is the “sunshine spice.” This is because it might raise your spirits in addition to its striking hue.
A review for 2019Saffron was discovered by Trusted Source to be substantially more effective at treating mild to moderate depressive symptoms than placebos.
Likewise, additional researchSaffron was discovered by Trusted Source to be equally beneficial as traditional depression therapies like citalopram, imipramine, and fluoxetine. Furthermore, saffron caused fewer negative effects in patients than other medications.
Even though these results are encouraging, more thorough human trials involving a larger sample size are required before professionals can suggest saffron as a depression treatment.
harnessing the benefits of kesar: Refreshing drinks to elevate summer
3. anti-cancer qualities
Antioxidants, which are abundant in saffron, aid in the elimination of dangerous free radicals. Chronic illnesses including cancer have been connected to free radical damage.
A review for 2020Saffron and its constituents have been demonstrated to specifically kill cancer cells or inhibit the growth of tumors while sparing healthy cells, according to Trusted Source.
Studies indicate that this impact is relevant to various forms of cancer, such as
colon cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, cervical cancer
leukemia, brain tumors
The primary antioxidant in saffron, crocin, may also increase the sensitivity of cancer cells. Reliable Source for chemotherapy medications.
Even though these results are encouraging, more investigation is required to completely comprehend saffron’s anticancer properties.
4. Could lessen pms symptoms
Symptoms that manifest physically, emotionally, and psychologically prior to the onset of a menstrual cycle are referred to as premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
A review for 2024, According to a reliable source, saffron may have a beneficial effect on several aspects of the female reproductive system, potentially alleviating PMS symptoms.
It’s crucial to see a physician before using saffron to treat PMS symptoms. They might suggest at-home treatments that would work better for you.
5. Potential aphrodisiac
Foods or supplements that increase libido are known as aphrodisiacs.
Research has indicated that saffron may have sexual qualities, particularly for antidepressant users.
As an example, the writers of a 2019 reviewTrusted Source discovered that saffron supplementation improved:
erectile dysfunction
arousal for sexual relations
fulfillment of sex
vaginal lubrication
Furthermore, saffron supplementation significantly increased libido, overall pleasure, and erectile function, but not semen qualities, according to a 2018 review.
In a 2012 study, consuming 30 milligrams (mg) of saffron daily for four weeks enhanced sexual desire and lubrication and decreased sex-related pain in females with low sexual desire because they were taking antidepressants, as compared to a placebo.
6. could lessen hunger and promote weight loss
Saffron may help suppress appetite and aid in weight management, according to research, particularly if you are obese
For instance, a 2023 research According to a study, ingesting 60 mg of saffron daily for 12 weeks reduced body mass index (BMI), weight, and waist circumference considerably more effectively than a placebo.
Additionally, researchers discovered that saffron reduced triglyceride levels and enhanced HDL (good) cholesterol.
Comparably, a 2017 study (Trusted Source) discovered that consuming a saffron extract supplement for eight weeks decreased overall fat mass, waist circumference, body mass index, and hunger.
harnessing the benefits of kesar: Refreshing drinks to elevate summer
7. Potential health benefits
Research suggests eating saffron may help lower blood pressure, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol. This may help minimize heart disease risk factors. This may lessen the chance of clogged arteries and blood vessels.
Might reduce glucose levels in the blood: Saffron may improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels, according to a 2017 study
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in adults may be treated with saffron to protect against free radical damage, which is connected to AMD, and to enhance eyesight in adults with AMD.
May help seniors with Alzheimer’s disease remember things better: The antioxidant qualities of saffron may help adults with Alzheimer’s disease think more clearly.
8. easy to add in diet
Small amounts of saffron’s delicate flavor and perfume go nicely with savory foods like paella, risotto, and other rice dishes.
Soaking the saffron threads in hot, but not boiling, water is the ideal method for enhancing its distinct flavor. To get a deeper, richer taste in your recipe, add the threads and the liquid.
Saffron can be bought as threads or powdered and is easily found in most specialized markets. If at all possible, purchase the threads as they have a multitude of applications and are less likely to be tampered with.
Even though saffron is the priciest spice available, a tiny bit goes a long way. In many cases, you only need a pinch in your recipes.
Actually, if you use too much saffron in your recipes, they will taste extremely medicinal.
Furthermore, saffron is offered as a supplement.
How to use saffron?
The petals of saffron flowers resemble thin crimson threads. To create saffron tea, soak a few strands in hot water.
Alternatively, add the liquid as a flavoring to savory foods. It’s one of the priciest spices in the world, so budget accordingly.
If you don’t like the taste, you can also buy saffron capsules to take internally. However, be sure it’s safe for you by consulting your healthcare practitioner before taking any supplements.
Certain supplements may cause unfavorable side effects, particularly if you’re expecting, using medicine, or have a medical issue. It also has a ton of antioxidants.
harnessing the benefits of kesar: Refreshing drinks to elevate summer
harnessing the benefits of kesar: Refreshing drinks to elevate summer
who should avoid saffron?
1. Expectant and nursing mothers
When consumed in excess, saffron can induce uterine contractions and result in miscarriage.
As a result, it is preferable to stay away from saffron while pregnant or nursing in order to exclude any possibility of negative consequences. Alternatively, consult your physician to find out how to safely take the spice while pregnant.
2. Individual that have allergies
Sensitive Reactions: People who are sensitive to saffron or related plants, such as lilies, may respond by itching, swelling, or having trouble breathing.
3. people that suffer from bipolar disorder
Mood Effects: Saffron has the potential to elevate mood and precipitate manic episodes in bipolar individuals.
4. Individuals Taking Blood pressure medcine
Changes in Blood Pressure: Saffron has the potential to drop blood pressure, which could be problematic for people who are already taking medication to control blood pressure because it could result in hypotension.
5. People taking blood thinners increasing Bleeding risk
Saffron may reduce blood clotting, which puts those on blood thinners like aspirin or warfarin at higher risk of bleeding.
6. Individuals Who Are Scheduled for operation Pre-Surgical Measures
It is recommended to cease saffron consumption at least two weeks prior to any scheduled operation in order to minimize the risk of severe bleeding because it may slow blood coagulation.
harnessing the benefits of kesar: Refreshing drinks to elevate summer
7. People at Risk for Hypotension Due to Low Blood Pressure
People who already have low blood pressure should steer clear of saffron to avoid further dropping their blood pressure to unsafe levels.
8. people with specific medical disorder
Liver and kidney illnesses: Saffron use may aggravate liver or kidney disorders, thus anyone with severe conditions should speak with their doctor before using it.
Despite the many health advantages of saffron, some people should avoid it or take it sparingly.
People with bipolar disorder, allergies, or those using certain blood pressure or blood thinner medications should exercise extra caution, as should expectant and nursing mothers.
Before using saffron in your diet, it is always advisable to speak with a healthcare professional, particularly if you fit into any of these categories.
Refreshing kesar drinks for summer
Kesar, or saffron, is used to make a range of flavorful and aromatic drinks that have health advantages.
Here are a few well-liked kesar drink varieties:
1. Kesar milk (Saffron milk)
Cardamom, sugar, honey, and milk are the ingredients.
To prepare, heat the milk and stir in the saffron threads. After a few minutes of simmering, add some sugar or honey and a dash of cardamom. Serve heated after giving it a good stir.
2. Kesar chai (Saffron tea)
Cardamom, sugar, milk, black tea leaves, and saffron threads are the ingredients.
Preparation: While the black tea is steeping, add the saffron strands. To taste, add cardamom, sugar, and milk. After straining, serve warm.
harnessing the benefits of kesar: Refreshing drinks to elevate summer
3. Kesar lassi (Yogurt with saffron strands)
Yogurt, cardamom, sugar, water, and yogurt are the ingredients.
Make sure the yogurt, sugar and water are well-blended before serving. Add a pinch of cardamom and the strands of saffron. Let cool and serve chilled.
4. kesar badam milk (Saffron almond milk)
Consists of milk, almonds, sugar, cardamom, and threads of saffron.
Almonds should be soaked for a full night, then peeled and ground into a paste. After warming the milk, stir in the cardamom, sugar, saffron threads, and almond paste. After a little while of simmering, serve warm.
5. kesar sharbat (Saffron syrup)
Sugar, water, lemon juice, and saffron threads are the ingredients.
Prepare by dissolving sugar in water and adding strands of saffron. Reduce heat and simmer until it becomes syrupy. For taste, squeeze in some lemon juice. Combine with soda or cold water and serve cool.
harnessing the benefits of kesar: Refreshing drinks to elevate summer
6. Kesar thandai
Milk, sugar, cardamom, black pepper, melon, poppy, and fennel seeds, almonds, cashews, and saffron strands are among the ingredients.
Prepare the nuts and seeds by soaking them and grinding them into a pulp. Combine the paste with the milk, sugar, cardamom, and saffron threads. Let cool and serve chilled.
7. Kesar kahwa (Saffron green tea)
Cardamom, cinnamon, almonds, honey, green tea leaves, and saffron strands.
To prepare, brew green tea and steep it with cinnamon, cardamom, and saffron threads. To taste, add honey and sliced nuts. After straining, serve warm.
8. Kesar Pista Milkshake, also known as Saffron Pistachio Milkshake
Ingredients include milk, sugar, ice cream (optional), pistachios, and strands of saffron.
To prepare, blend together milk, sugar, pistachios, and a few strands of saffron until smooth. If preferred, top with a scoop of ice cream. Present cold.
harnessing the benefits of kesar: Refreshing drinks to elevate summer
9. Kesar falooda
Ice cream, milk, basil seeds, saffron strands, falooda (vermicelli), and rose syrup.
Prepare the basil seeds by soaking them in water until they swell. Prepare falooda as directed on the packet. Stir in the saffron strands and refrigerate. Arrange the falooda, saffron milk, rose syrup, and basil seeds in a glass. Serve chilled, topped with a dollop of ice cream.
10. Kesar pana (saffron-mango drink)
Sugar, water, cardamom, mango pulp, and saffron strands.
Prepare by dissolving sugar in water and adding strands of saffron. Mix the cardamom, saffron syrup, and mango pulp together. Let cool and serve chilled.
A variety of aromatic and savory drinks, including Kesar Falooda and Kesar Kahwa, as well as classic Indian drinks like Kesar Milk and Kesar Lassi, can be made with kesar (saffron).
These beverages are a lovely complement to any diet because they taste great and provide the health advantages of saffron.