from the desk of Dr Gail Wasserman
Crocus Sativus or Saffron is a prized spice known for its color, flavor and recently its extensive medicinal properties. The part of the plant that is used is the dried stigma or threads of the flower. Saffron belongs to Iridaceae (family) Crocus (genus) and known botanically as Crocus Sativus.
Most of us only know the culinary benefits of Saffron, but this spice has some amazing health benefits according to scientific studies.
7 Health Benefits of Saffron
Lowers Depression
19 million Americans have depression issues. There are too many medications that are treating this issue and we are still depressed. Studies say crocin and safranal, some of the important bioactive compounds in saffron, help modulate mood neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine.
Supports Healthy Weight Loss
Clinical studies have shown that higher levels of serotonin shown a direct influence on binges and cravings of unhealthy food. Saffron Extract has been shown in French studies to decrease hunger feelings between meals dramatically and modulate the appetite with only 88.25mg just twice a day. For those us that do some stress eating this could be the answer!
Soothes Upset Stomach
Eastern medicine has always used Saffron to help eliminate burning pain, heartburn and indigestion. Animal studies show that the crocin and safranal have strong antioxidant properties that help to prevent damage to the stomach inner lining or the gastric mucosa. If you have stomach issues or an ulcer what do you have to lose by supporting yourself with Saffron.
Supports Eyesight Preservation
The leading cause of blindness in the developed world today is AMD or Age-related Macular Degeneration. Studies have shown long term improvement in retinal function and cell death in those with AMD. The bioactive compounds from Saffron that are responsible for protecting the light sensitive cell and regulating the cell death are crocin (WOW) and crocetin.
Lowered Insulin Resistance
Crocetin a major bioactive component in Saffron is responsible for this health benefit that supports aging bodies or those folks with sugar issues. Animal studies support antioxidant and anti-inflammatory issues associated with the negative impact of insulin resistance on the body.
Supports the Heart and Cardiovascular System
Antioxidant and ant-inflammatory properties found in crocetin may promote healthy arteries and lower cholesterol according to studies. This may be the reason for the lower rates of cardiovascular disease in the Mediterranean countries according to researchers.
Improves Some PMS Symptoms
Premenstrual support right from your spice rack? Yes, saffron research has shown significant reduction in mood, behavior and pain during PMS. Saffron also supports the happy neurotransmitter Serotonin which seems to decrease during PMS.
There are so many benefits of Saffron that I could not write them all. Seems a Pure Saffron Standardized Extract twice a day is an easy way to protect and support our bodies and even more importantly our minds!
References upon request