Saffron is a beautiful, vibrant red spice that has been used in culinary applications as a flavoring and coloring agent for ages. The world’s most expensive spice by weight, it is this seasoning that gives saffron rice its vivid yellow hue. It should come as no surprise then that our word for saffron derives from the Arabic word “za’afran,” which means yellow.
Yet saffron is not just unique in sight and savor. It is also a mineral and antioxidant-rich botanical that is becoming more popular for its use as a supplement.
Though its etymological origins may not be surprising, these potential benefits of an organic saffron supplement certainly are
1. Get a serotonin boost
Several studies have shown promise that saffron may be effective at uplifting the mood and diminishing the effects of depression. One small-scale, six-week study suggested that daily 30 mg saffron supplements were effective enough at treating the symptoms of depression to warrant a larger-scale study.
Even more impressive is that similar studies suggested that saffron might actually be more effective at combating the effects of depression than conventional pharmaceutical treatments, specifically Fluoxetine, Citalopram, and Imipramine.
Saffron also contains crocin and crocetin, two natural active components which may increase serotonin levels in the brain.
2. Weight loss support
While it’s not a magic spell, saffron may help support your weight loss goals by helping to naturally suppress your appetite.
A placebo-controlled, 2010 study suggested that saffron extract may increase feelings of satisfaction and feeling-full, reducing the individual’s propensity to snack.
Think of saffron as a potentially effective hedge against the “snack attack.”
Saffron may also block cytokinases and transcription factors associated with metabolic syndrome; in other words, saffron may potentially boost the metabolism to support weight-loss efforts, among other potential benefits.
3. Powerful antioxidants
Saffron is extremely rich in antioxidants, including crocin and crocetin which have already been mentioned as well as safranal and many others.
Antioxidants bind to and neutralize free radicals within the body, combating oxidative stress. These antioxidants can help reduce inflammation and cell-level damage that can serve as the precursor to a wide range of other adverse health conditions including but not limited to heart disease and cancer.
4. Saffron may support sexual wellness
Saffron has long been used as an aphrodisiac and there may be some merit to this historic superstition.
One study suggested that men who were suffering the effects of ED (erectile dysfunction) benefited from two-daily 15 mg saffron supplements. Additional studies have suggested that both men and women who took saffron supplements experienced increased libido and sexual desire.
5. May sharpen the memory
Saffron may potentially improve cognitive function, specifically in people affected by mild to moderate Alzheimer’s Disease.
Studies have suggested that saffron’s effects in boosting cognitive function were similar to two medications, Memantine and Donepezil, used to treat the effects of Alzheimer’s.
Where Can You Find an Organic Saffron Supplement?
Ready to learn more about the potential benefits of routinely taking an organic saffron supplement?
Visit Feel Younger online at FeelYounger.net. Their Saffron Pure Extract Capsules are potent (88.6mg per saffron capsule), affordable, vegan-friendly, as well as lactose, hormone, gluten, and binder-free.
For more information, please visit their website via the link above or contact them directly at [email protected].
