Memories come in different forms – good, bad, bitter, sweet, happy, and sad. However, some memories leave a deeper impact than others, and they can be hard to forget. Recalling such memories can cause distress, anxiety, and depression.

Fortunately, nature has gifted us with a spice that can help us deal with painful memories and its associated negative emotions – saffron.

What is Saffron?

Saffron, also known as Kesar, is a spice derived from the flower of Crocus sativus, a plant belonging to the iris family. The spice is produced by collecting the crimson stigma and vivid styles of the flower.

It takes around 150,000 flowers to yield one kilogram of saffron. Saffron is commonly used in Indian, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cuisines, thanks to its rich aroma and flavor.

The Health Benefits of Saffron

Saffron has been used in Ayurveda, a traditional Indian medicine, for centuries. It is believed to have numerous health benefits, including:.

1. Improves Mood

Saffron can help improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. A study published in the Journal of Integrative Medicine found that saffron was as effective as the antidepressant fluoxetine in treating mild to moderate depression.

Another study found that saffron supplementation reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety in postpartum women, who are at high risk of experiencing mood disorders.

2. Promotes Better Sleep

Saffron can also help promote better sleep. A study published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that consuming saffron extract improved sleep quality in adults with insomnia.

Another study found that saffron supplementation increased total sleep time and reduced wake after sleep onset in adults with mild to moderate insomnia.

3. Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Saffron can help reduce stress and anxiety. A study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that saffron supplementation reduced self-reported symptoms of anxiety in adults with mild-to-moderate anxiety.

Another study found that saffron extract reduced symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder and its associated depression.

4. Enhances Brain Function

Saffron can also enhance brain function and protect against age-related cognitive decline. A study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that saffron supplementation improved visual-spatial memory and attention in healthy older adults.

Another study found that saffron extract improved cognitive function in adults with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease.

5. Helps Manage PMS Symptoms

Saffron can help manage symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

A study published in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that saffron supplementation reduced symptoms of PMS, including irritability, depression, and breast tenderness.

Saffron and Painful Memories

Saffron not only has physical health benefits but also has mental health benefits. Numerous studies have shown that saffron can help reduce the intensity and frequency of painful memories and associated negative emotions.

1. Saffron and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as a natural disaster, physical assault, or military combat.

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PTSD can cause distressing symptoms, including flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety.

A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that saffron supplementation reduced symptoms of PTSD in adults with a history of trauma.

Another study found that saffron was as effective as the anti-anxiety medication, diazepam, in reducing symptoms of PTSD in rats.

2. Saffron and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a mental health condition characterized by excessive and uncontrollable worry about everyday things. GAD can cause physical symptoms, such as muscle tension, restlessness, and fatigue.

A study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research found that saffron supplementation reduced symptoms of GAD in adults with mild-to-moderate anxiety.

Another study found that saffron was as effective as the anti-anxiety medication lorazepam, in reducing symptoms of GAD in rats.

3. Saffron and Depression

Depression is a mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in everyday activities. Depression can cause physical symptoms, such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, and poor appetite.

A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that saffron supplementation reduced symptoms of depression in adults with mild-to-moderate depression.

Another study found that saffron was as effective as the antidepressant medication imipramine, in reducing symptoms of depression in rats.

How to Use Saffron?

Saffron can be used in different forms, depending on your preference. Some of the ways to use saffron include:.

1. In Food

Saffron has a distinctive aroma and flavor that can enhance the taste and presentation of your food. You can use saffron in sweet and savory dishes, such as biryani, paella, risotto, and cakes.

2. In Beverages

You can infuse saffron in hot water or milk to make a flavorful and healthy beverage. Saffron tea or milk is a soothing and relaxing drink that can help promote better sleep and reduce stress and anxiety.

3. In Supplements

Saffron is available in supplement form, such as capsules or extracts. Supplements can provide a high concentration of saffron, making it easier to get the health benefits of the spice.

Safety and Precautions

While saffron is generally safe for most people, it can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Common symptoms of saffron allergy include itching, rash, and difficulty breathing.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid high doses of saffron as it can affect fetal development.

Conclusion

Saffron is an amazing spice that not only adds flavor and aroma to your food but also has numerous health benefits. It can help improve mood, promote better sleep, reduce stress and anxiety, enhance brain function, and manage PMS symptoms.

Saffron also has mental health benefits, and it can help reduce the intensity and frequency of painful memories and associated negative emotions. Include saffron in your diet or take saffron supplements to enjoy its amazing health benefits.