Saffron Extract: The Next Great Supplement?

A Bite-Size Read for Your Health and Waistline

Image by Ulrike Leone from Pixabay

Saffron? Saffron supplement? I hear you; yes. I know, you’re thinking of the spice that’s super expensive. You’re right. That’s the one. In fact, there’s quite a bit of research on saffron and its medicinal properties!

Overall, the studies on saffron suggest it’s effective in the treatment of a range of health conditions, like coronary artery disease, hypertension, and stomach disorders. It can even help with impairments of learning, memory, and mood! A major piece of these claims stem from its antioxidant properties. There are four types of antioxidants in saffron: crocin, crocetin, safranal, and kaempferol. Like all antioxidants, they protect the cells from oxidative stress, which help prevent inflammation. The crocin and crocetin give saffron its color, support emotional wellness, and boost serotonin which plays into appetite and productivity. The safranal gives saffron its flavor but can also help with memory. The last antioxidant, kaempferol, supports the immune system. There are also studies that suggest that saffron has anti-cancer properties and may lower cholesterol, preventing arteries from clogging.

Even more interesting to me is the connection between saffron and mood, especially with symptoms of depression in kids. Research shows people as young as 12 can…