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Introduction
Benefits
Precautions
Recommended dosage
How to use
FAQs
References
Author Details
Ayurvedic View By
Dr. Deepak Soni
BAMS
Scientific View By
Deepa Sarkar
M.Pharm, B.Pharm
Reviewed By
Dr. Rajeev Sharma
MBA, MBBS
Last updated
29 Aug 2022 | 04:38 PM (IST)
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Saffron (Kesar)

Saffron (Crocus sativus) is an herb that is widely cultivated in India and other parts of the world. The flower of Saffron contains a thread like red-colored stigma which is dried and used commercially as a spice for its powerful odor and also for Ayurvedic preparations.
Saffron helps relieve cough and asthma when taken along with honey. It is also beneficial in managing the problems of the reproductive system, such as, erectile dysfunction in men and menstrual pain in women.
Taking Saffron with milk relaxes the nervous system which helps reduce anxiety and prevents insomnia.
Saffron is also useful in skin problems as it protects against sun damage. Adding a few drops of Saffron oil to your daily-use cream might help prevent pigmentation and promote skin whitening[1][2][8][9][14][16-18][22].

What are the synonyms of Saffron (Kesar)?

Crocus sativus, Kesar, Zaffran, Kashmirajaman, Kunkuma, Kashmiram, Avarakta

What is the source of Saffron (Kesar)?

Plant Based

Benefits of Saffron (Kesar)

What are the benefits of Saffron (Kesar) for Heart disease?

Modern Science View
Crocetin present in Saffron has antioxidant property. It helps reduce blood cholesterol and prevents buildup of plaque in the arteries. This lowers the risk of cardiovascular diseases[21].

What are the benefits of Saffron (Kesar) for Alzheimer's disease?

Modern Science View
In Alzheimer’s patients, there is an increase in the production of a protein called amyloid beta protein leading to the formation of amyloid plaques or clusters in the brain. A study states that Saffron can reduce the formation of amyloid plaques in the brain thus improving memory functions in Alzheimer’s patients[13].
Ayurvedic View
Saffron (Kesar) has Katu (pungent), Tikta (bitter) taste, Ushna Virya (hot) potency and works in balancing all the three doshas Vata, Pitta and Kapha. As a result of which it lowers the risk of nervous system disorders.

What are the benefits of Saffron (Kesar) for Cancer?

Modern Science View
Saffron might be used as a complementary therapy in cancer treatment. Phytochemicals present in Saffron has apoptogenic properties and induces apoptosis or cell death while leaving the non-cancerous cells unharmed. It also has anti-proliferative property and reduces the growth of cancer cells[14][19][20].

What are the benefits of Saffron (Kesar) for Cough?

Modern Science View
Some studies state that Safranal present in Saffron has antitussive effect which might help control cough[22].

What are the benefits of Saffron (Kesar) for Asthma?

Modern Science View
Saffron might be useful for patients with asthma. Safranal present in Saffron has bronchodilatory effect which relaxes the smooth muscles of the windpipe and widens the airway. This might help you breathe easy[14].
Ayurvedic View
Saffron might help in asthma and bronchitis due to its Ushna virya (hot) potency. It also helps to boost immunity by balancing Kapha due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property.
Tip:
1. Take 4-5 Saffron threads.
2. Mix it with 1 teaspoon honey.
3. Take it after taking meals twice a day.
4. Take till you see a difference in your symptoms.

What are the benefits of Saffron (Kesar) for Erectile dysfunction?

Modern Science View
Saffron possesses aphrodisiac properties due to the presence of a pigment called crocin. It might help in enhancing sexual performance by improving testosterone secretion and the sperm quality. Thus it might be effective in managing male infertility and other sexual disorders like erectile dysfunction[14][16].
Ayurvedic View
Saffron (Kesar) works a Vajikarana (aphrodisiac) and helps improve the sexual drive.
Tip:
1. Add 5-6 Saffron threads in 1 cup of warm milk.
2. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
3. Take it at night before going to bed.
4. Do not boil Saffron as it may lose some precious volatile oils.

What are the benefits of Saffron (Kesar) for Insomnia?

Modern Science View
Safranal present in Saffron has hypnotic effect and enhances the sleep-promoting neurons in the brain. A study states that Saffron also relaxes the nervous system and might help overcome anxiety. Together this might help avoid restless or sleepless nights[17][18].
Ayurvedic View
Saffron helps in stress-induced sleeplessness due to its Vata balancing property.
Tip:
1. Add 5-6 Saffron threads in 1 cup of warm milk.
2. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
3. Take it at night before going to bed.

What are the benefits of Saffron (Kesar) for Depression?

Modern Science View
One of the reasons of depression is the imbalance in the level of serotonin hormone. Saffron acts as a natural antidepressant agent by balancing the level of serotonin thereby relieving the symptoms of depression[8][9].
Ayurvedic View
Saffron helps to cope with depression by balancing the Vata dosha.
Tip:
1. Add 4-5 Saffron (Kesar) threads in 1 cup of warm milk.
2. Drink it twice a day two hours after food daily.
3. Continue for at least 3-4 months for better results.

What are the benefits of Saffron (Kesar) for Menstrual pain?

Modern Science View
Studies state that Saffron has antispasmodic property and helps in relieving pain during periods[14].
Ayurvedic View
Saffron helps to ease the menstrual flow and controls pain due to its Vata balancing property.
Tip
1. Add 4-5 Saffron (Kesar) threads in 1 cup of warm milk.
2. Drink it twice a day two hours after food daily.
3. Continue for at least 3-4 months for better results.

What are the benefits of Saffron (Kesar) for Premenstrual syndrome?

Modern Science View
Saffron might help manage some of the symptoms of PMS like depression and painful periods. Saffron acts as a natural antidepressant agent by balancing the level of serotonin thereby relieving the symptoms of depression. It also has antispasmodic property and helps in relieving pain during periods[6][15].
Ayurvedic View
Saffron helps to manage premenstrual syndrome due to its Vata balancing and Rasayana properties.
Tip
1. Take 4-5 threads of Saffron.
2. Add 1-2 teaspoon honey.
3. Take it once or twice a day after meals.

What are the benefits of Saffron (Kesar) for Psoriasis?

Modern Science View
Saffron might help in managing the symptoms of psoriasis if it is consumed in the form of tea on a regular basis[23][24].
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 cup of boiling water.
2. Pour it over a pinch of saffron and steep for 15 minutes.
3. Consume 1-1/2 hour before a meal.
Ayurvedic View
Saffron has Rasayana (rejuvenating) property and shows good results in case of skin problems like psoriasis.

How effective is Saffron (Kesar)?

Likely effective
Alzheimer's disease, Depression, Menstrual pain, Premenstrual syndrome
Insufficient evidence
Asthma, Athletic performance, Cancer, Cough, Erectile dysfunction, Heart disease, Insomnia, Premature ejaculation, Psoriasis

Precautions when using Saffron (Kesar)

Advice from Experts
Ayurvedic View
Saffron should be taken in a recommended dose and for a recommended duration under an Ayurvedic doctor’s supervision.
Side Effects
Modern Science View
Saffron is possibly safe for most of the people. However, in some cases it may cause side effects like:
1. Dry mouth
2. Anxiety
3. Dizziness
4. Drowsiness
5. Nausea
6. Change in appetite
7. Headache

Recommended Dosage of Saffron (Kesar)

  • Saffron (Kesar) Capsule - 1 capsule once or twice a day.
  • Saffron (Kesar) Tablet - 1 Tablet once or twice a day.

How to use Saffron (Kesar)

1. Saffron threads
Take 5-6 threads with milk once or twice a day.

2. Saffron Capsule
Take 1 capsule twice a day with milk after taking lunch and dinner.

3.Saffron Tablet
Take 1 tablet twice a day with milk after taking lunch and dinner

Frequently asked questions

Modern Science View
Saffron tea is nothing but infusion of saffron strands in water. Few strands of Saffron are added to water, boiled and the resulting solution is used as an infusion or tea. Usually 1 ml of saffron water is mixed with 80 ml of water to make Saffron tea[1]. You can also add saffron infusion to other types of teas like green tea, Kahwa tea or masala tea.
Modern Science View
The best way to store Saffron is to place it in an airtight container and store in a cool, dark place, preferably at room temperature. Avoid storing it in refrigerator as it tends to absorb moisture when taken out and kept at room conditions for use.
Modern Science View
Kesar doodh can be made at home in a simple way. All you need to have is milk, sugar, cardamom and a strand or two of Saffron. Boil milk and add sugar, cardamom powder and kesar to the milk and allow it to boil for few minutes. Pour it in a glass and drink when lukewarm.
Modern Science View
The common Indian brands that sell saffron are Patanjali kesar, Lion brand saffron, Baby brand saffron, etc.
Modern Science View
Saffron can last long if stored properly in an airtight container and under preferable conditions. However, saffron powder can last for upto six months whereas saffron threads can last for up to three to five years.
Modern Science View
The price of Saffron per gram in India can range anywhere between Rs 250 - Rs 300 based on the brands and the extent of purity.

References

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Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.