Saffron is nicknamed the “sunshine spice.” High in antioxidants, saffron is the most expensive spice in the world due to the labor intensive process of individually harvesting the 3 orange stigma per saffron crocus flower, with the use of tweezers.
In spite of its expense, there are many benefits to adding saffron to your diet.
Studies have found that taking 30 mg of saffron daily is as effective as prescription medication for the treatment of mild-to-moderate depression with fewer side effects reported.
Interestingly, saffron may have aphrodisiac properties for both men and women and may especially help those taking antidepressants. The use of saffron is a proven performance booster and improves sexual function.
Studies have also found that taking a saffron extract supplement daily helped significantly reduce appetite, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and total fat mass. It may lower blood sugar levels and improve vision in adults.
Further, saffron and its compounds have been shown to selectively kill cancer cells or suppress their growth, while leaving normal cells unharmed.
Saffron can also be safely taken in the short term in the form of a supplement.
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