Effets secondaires/Précautions d’emploi

Saffron has no side effects. However, it is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, children under 12, or people taking antihypertensive or antidepressant medication. In case of overdose, it may cause vomiting or gastrointestinal problems. It is therefore advisable to follow the recommended dosage exactly.

Saffron

Saffronis a spice known for its hair-like shape and as a flavor enhancer. This spice belongs to the Iridaceae family and is of the Crocus sativus species. This bright red flower has three stigmas, whose active ingredients are well known for their effects against stress, depression, and premenstrual symptoms. These stigmas are attached to a bulb-shaped stem called the corm and surrounded by mauve-colored petals. Saffron stigmas are dried to release their therapeutic properties. They are also mainly used in cooking as a condiment or food coloring.

This spice is commonly referred to as red gold because its price varies according to the price of gold. It is one of the most expensive spices on the market due to its long and laborious production process. Saffron contains carotenoids, crocin, and safranal. Saffron is often harvested during the winter because it loses its leaves when spring arrives.

Saffron was first discovered in Greece before being cultivated and used in the Middle East.

In ancient Egypt, saffron was used to heal the ailments and pains of the population. It was also considered an aphrodisiac that Cleopatra poured into her bath. The medicinal effects of this flower subsequently became a tradition in several Asian countries. It was used to treat respiratory infections (coughs, colds, asthma) but also to combat stress and indigestion. Today, this "red gold" is still used for its medicinal and healing properties.

This bright red flower grows in well-drained, slightly moist or even arid soil. It prefers sunny locations and does not tolerate shade well. Storms and rain reduce the quality of the crop. The main producers of saffron are Greece, Morocco, and several Middle Eastern countries, but Iran is by far the dominant player in the saffron market, as it is a spice widely used in Persian cuisine. Other European countries such as France and Spain have also decided to cultivate this "red gold."

Properties and benefits of saffron

For thousands of years, saffron has been used to treat the most complex health problems:

Powerful antioxidant: Saffron is known for its antioxidant effects because the saffron flower contains crocin, carotenoids, and safranal, which act against cell aging when interacting with air.
Powerful anti-inflammatory: it is also an excellent way to fight all types of infections. Saffron is very useful for relieving toothache. The same applies to ear infections and joint pain. It significantly reduces post-menstrual symptoms (headaches, stomach cramps) as well as symptoms associated with menopause (hot flashes).
Reduces symptoms of depression and stress: The main use of saffron is to combat stress and depression. Saffronal has antidepressant properties that act on the nervous system and lead to emotional balance. In addition, it reduces sleep disorders and thus influences mood.
Anti-cancer properties: the carotenoids in saffron have beneficial properties that slow down the development of cancer. In fact, it was once used for this purpose.
Digestive properties: Saffron aids digestion and cleanses the liver. It also reduces appetite by creating a feeling of fullness.

Has a positive effect on diabetes and triglycerides: saffron has been shown to reduce blood sugar and cholesterol levels. It therefore improves the health of people with triglycerides and diabetes and consequently reduces cardiovascular risks.
Corrects vision: the benefits of saffron also help combat retinal tissue degeneration. This spice also benefits the visual system of elderly people, helping to stabilize cataract problems.
Improves memory in people with degenerative diseases: crocus has demonstrated its effectiveness in combating neuron deterioration in people with degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's. It also neutralizes and improves cognitive abilities in these individuals and in those with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorders.
Effects on sexual health: Saffron is a powerful aphrodisiac that Cleopatra used in her bath. It increases desire and promotes erection in men.
Restores energy and vitality: thanks to the active ingredients in saffron, its properties combat fatigue and boost energy. It increases athletic performance and endurance.
Benefits for the skin: saffron helps slow down cell aging, which is why it is often included in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products.