15 Benefits Of Saffron(Kesar) For Skin & Health & How To Use It

Use this luxe spice to improve your complexion and protect it from the skin.

Medically reviewed by Madhu Sharma, RD Madhu Sharma Madhu SharmaRD
Written by , BSc, Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition and Health Ravi Teja Tadimalla BSc, Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition and Health linkedin_icon Experience: 10 years
Edited by , BA (Literature & Psychology), PG Diploma Arshiya Syeda BA (Literature & Psychology), PG Diploma linkedin_icon Experience: 8 years
Fact-checked by , BTech (Biotechnology), Certified Health & Nutrition Life Coach Sindhu Koganti BTech (Biotechnology), Certified Health & Nutrition Life Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 6 years
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Saffron benefits your health in numerous ways, and research is exploring more about this wonderful spice. Saffron has long been valued across different cultures from ancient Persian remedies to Indian cuisine. Beyond its flavor, it is prized for its health benefits, with historical texts showing how important it was in traditional wellness practices. Recent studies state that saffron has many medicinal properties and exhibits pharmacological activities (1). It is the most expensive spice, and a pound of it may cost around $500 to $5000. 300 tons of saffron is produced annually, and Iran produces 76% of it.

Hippocrates, who is regarded as the father of medicine, wrote about the benefits of kesar milk to combat insomnia, stomach issues, cold, cough,flatulencei  A natural process of the release of intestinal gas present in the digestive system through the anus. , uterine bleeding, and heart-related ailments.

Modern research also supports the claimed benefits of saffron. Keep reading to learn more about them and how saffron can improve your health!

protip_icon Know Your Ingredient: Saffron

What Is It?
It is the vivid crimson thread (used as a seasoning and coloring agent in food) taken from the saffron crocus flower. It is the most expensive spice.

What Are Its Benefits?
It may promote antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemic, and photoprotective properties.

Who Can Consume It?
Those who want to boost eye, brain, and digestive health, treat insomnia, improve immunity, and heart health, and protect the skin can consume it.

How Often?
1 to 2 teaspoons of saffron in a glass of milk, water, or tea can be consumed daily.

Caution
High levels such as 10.5 grams can cause miscarriages, yellowing of skin, vomiting, dizziness, bloody diarrhea, numbness, poisoning, and bleeding from the lips, nose, and eyes.

What Are The Health Benefits Of Saffron?

To begin with, Is saffron good for you? The answer is easy: Yes, the two major carotenoids in saffron, crocin, and crocetin may have antitumor effects. These compounds may also reduce inflammation risk. Safranal, another compound in the spice, was found to promote retinal health.

1. May Reduce Cancer Risk

Saffron is rich in two major carotenoids, namely crocin, and crocetin. Preclinical evidence demonstrates that certain carotenoids may have potent antitumor effects (2).

Literature data indicate that saffron could be used as a potential cancer chemopreventive agent. Even though some of the data looks convincing, more well-designed clinical trials in humans are warranted to ascertain the anticancer effects of saffron (2).

As per another report, though the exact mechanism of the anticancer effects of saffron is unclear, its carotenoids could play a role. More trials in humans are needed to arrive at a definite conclusion (3).

Saffron and its components have also been suggested as promising candidates for cancer prevention. Crocin, one of its compounds, was found to have high potency as a chemotherapeutic agenti  Agents that help treat cancer by inhibiting the proliferation and promoting the destruction of cancer cells in the body. (4).

2. May Help Fight Inflammation And Arthritis

An Italian study states that the crocetin in saffron promotes cerebral oxygenation in rats and positively acts in arthritis treatment. This effect could most likely be attributed to its antioxidant activity. However, these results have been obtained only in vitro or on laboratory animals and not yet on humans (5).

Extracts of petals of the saffron plant were also found to have chronic anti-inflammatory activity. This effect could be attributed to the presence of flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and saponins. However, the other chemical constituents of saffron and their mechanisms are yet to be investigated (6).

3. May Boost Vision Health

In rat studies, safranal, a constituent of saffron, was found to delay retinal degeneration. The compound could also reduce rod and cone photoreceptor loss. These properties make safranal potentially useful for delaying retinal degeneration in retinal pathologies (7).

Saffron supplementation was also found to induce a mid-term, significant improvement in the retinal function in the case of age-related macular degeneration. However, more research is warranted with respect to saffron supplementation in clinical practice (8).

4. May Help In Insomnia Treatment

In rat studies, the crocin in saffron was found to boost non-rapid eye movement sleep. Crocetin, the other carotenoid in saffron, could also increase the total time of non-REM sleep by as much as 50% (9).

Other clinical trials also indicate that saffron supplementation could help improve symptoms of depression in adults dealing with major depressive disorder. One of the symptoms, as per research, is insomnia. Valeria Dolbel, a certified holistic nutritionist, says, “Saffron has soothing properties, making it safe to drink before bedtime, which helps treat insomnia, improve sleep quality, and aid restorative sleep in healthy adults experiencing poor sleep.”

However, further long-term follow-ups are required before firm conclusions can be made in this regard (10).

5. May Promote Brain Health

Woman moves her chess piece due to sharper brain function as a potential benefit of saffron
Image: Shutterstock

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of saffron extracts could imply its therapeutic potential for various issues of the nervous system. The spice interacts with the cholinergici  A component of the nervous system that regulates heartbeat, blood pressure, and other bodily functions. and dopaminergic systemsi  A system that controls the motor and cognitive functions of the body, such as learning, thinking, and behavior. , which may have beneficial effects in the case of Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s (11).

However, more investigations are needed to have a detailed perspective of saffron’s effects on the human nervous system.

Some accumulating evidence also suggests that crocin in saffron could play a role in cognition. In animal models, this carotenoid in saffron could attenuate memory disorders related to Alzheimer’s, cerebral injuries, and schizophrenia (12).

However, saffron’s potential efficacy in memory disorders related to traumatic brain injury and brain ischemiai  A condition where there is an insufficient supply of blood to the brain, leading to low oxygen and nutrient supply. is yet to be investigated (12).

6. May Promote Digestive Health

Most animal studies show saffron to exhibit antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-hyperlipidemici  Agents that help lower cholesterol levels in the blood and, in turn, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. effects in treating gastrointestinal digestion. However, the efficacy of the spice in treating human gastrointestinal issues is yet to be investigated and understood (13).

7. May Heal Burn Wounds

One rat study links the possible wound healing properties of saffron to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Saffron could significantly increase re-epithelialization in burn wounds, as compared to cream-treated wounds (14).

The study raises the possibility of the potential efficacy of saffron in accelerating wound healing in burn injuries (14).

8. May Enhance Immunity

Kesar benefits your immune system. Saffron is rich in carotenoids that seem to impact immunity. A study done on healthy men showed that daily use of saffron (about 100 mg) could have temporaryimmunomodulatory effectsi  Effects known to suppress or stimulate the immune system and help the body combat cancer, infection, or other diseases. without any adverse reactions (15).

9. May Offer Relief From Menstrual Symptoms

The benefits of saffron for females include relief from menstrual symptoms, such as cramps and nausea. A herbal drug containing saffron was found to offer relief to women with primary dysmenorrhea. The study concluded by stating the need for more clinical trials to determine the efficacy of the herbal drug (16).

10. May Improve Heart Health

Doctor holds a heart shape to concur the cardiovascular benefits of saffron
Image: Shutterstock

Saffron helps reduce the risk of heart disease by strengthening the circulatory system. The spice is rich in thiamin and riboflavin, and these promote a healthy heart and help prevent various cardiac issues (17).

Due to its antioxidant properties, saffron helps maintain healthy arteries and blood vessels. The spice’s anti-inflammatory properties also benefit the heart. The crocetin in the spice indirectly regulates blood cholesterol levels and reduces the severity of atherosclerosis (17).

Saffron may also be useful in treating hypertension, as per a rat study (18).

11. May Protect The Liver

Some research suggests that saffron benefits patients dealing with liver metastasis. The carotenoids in saffron may help inhibit the production of reactive oxygen species. But further investigations with a much larger sample size are required to arrive at any conclusion (19).

The safranal in saffron may also protect the liver from the environmental toxins. But this finding hasn’t been verified yet by human clinical trials. Hence, further human studies are warranted (20).

12. May Work As An Aphrodisiac

The crocin in saffron could improve sexual behavior in male rats. It could increase mounting frequency and erection frequency in the rats (21). However, the safranal in the spice did not exhibit any aphrodisiac effects.

Saffron was also found to be effective in improving sperm morphology and motility in infertile men. It wasn’t found to improve the sperm count, though. Further studies involving large sample sizes are needed to elucidate the potential role of saffron in treating male infertility (22).

In another study, crocin could improve some reproductive parameters in mice treated with nicotine. The study speculates that the antioxidant effects of saffron could have been a major reason behind this particular positive impact. Further studies are needed to define the spice’s exact mechanism of action (23).

13. May Reduce ADHD Symptoms

Some studies have shown that saffron, when paired with other FDA-approved medication, may help effectively reduce ADHD symptoms (24). Saffron is helpful in dealing with hyperactivity symptoms, as observed in these studies, while the medications are more effective in improving attentiveness. Further, while prescribed medication improves sleep quality in individuals with ADHD, saffron has been noted to have a relaxing effect that makes it easier to naturally fall asleep and increases the duration of time abed. Saffron’s carotenoids also have powerful antioxidant, anti-tumor, and anti-inflammatory properties that are being researched for their efficacy in treating other neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases.

Wondering what is saffron good for when it comes to your skin? That’s exactly what we will address next. Let us find out!

How Does Saffron Help Your Skin?

Saffron offers protection to the skin, thanks to its photoprotective and moisturizing effects.

14. May Protect Skin From UV Radiation

Studies suggest that saffron could be used as a natural UV-absorbing agent. It contains flavonoid compounds like kaempherol and quercetin, which could be contributing in this regard (25).

Saffron’s photoprotective effects may also be due to its other phenolic compounds, such as tannic, gallic, caffeic, and ferulic acids. A few of these compounds are used as active ingredients in various sunscreens and skin lotions (25).

However, saffron doesn’t seem to have any special moisturizing effect (25).

But be cautious of using saffron on your skin and be careful of the amount as saffron may cause the skin to turn yellow if used in excess (26).

These were the benefits of kesar. But what are the nutrients that make saffron this beneficial? Let us check its nutritional profile to learn the same.

15. May Enhance Complexion

Woman touches her radiant skin which may be a potential benefit of saffron
Image: Shutterstock

We do not recommend the use of any ingredient with the sole purpose of whitening one’s skin. But saffron has shown certain complexion promotion effects (26). You can easily prepare saffron face packs for flawless skin at home by combining saffron strands with other ingredients, such as milk and olive oil.

Now, let us take a look at the nutritional profile of this wonder ingredient.

What Is The Nutritional Profile Of Saffron?

Spices, Saffron
Serving Size: 1 teaspoon (0.7 g)
Nutrient Amount Unit
Water 0.083 g
Energy 2.17 kcal
Energy 9.09 kJ
Protein 0.08 g
Total lipid (fat) 0.041 g
Carbohydrate, by difference 0.458 g
Fiber, total dietary 0.027 g
Minerals
Calcium, Ca 0.777 mg
Iron, Fe 0.078 mg
Magnesium, Mg 1.85 mg
Phosphorus, P 1.76 mg
Potassium, K 12.1 mg
Sodium, Na 1.04 mg
Zinc, Zn 0.008 mg
Copper, Cu 0.002 mg
Manganese, Mn 0.199 mg
Selenium, Se 0.039 µg
Vitamins
Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid 0.566 mg
Thiamin 0.001 mg
Riboflavin 0.002 mg
Niacin 0.01 mg
Vitamin B-6 0.007 mg
Folate, food 0.651 µg
Vitamin B-12 0 µg
Vitamin A, RAE 0.189 µg
Retinol 0 µg
Vitamin A, IU 3.71 IU
Vitamin D (D2 + D3) 0 µg
Vitamin D 0 IU
Fatty acids
Fatty acids, total saturated 0.011 g
Fatty acids, total monounsaturated 0.003 g
Fatty acids, total polyunsaturated 0.014 g

Source: USDA, spices, saffron

The benefits of saffron extracts can be attributed to its wonderful nutrition profile. It is a versatile spice, and you can use it in more ways than one. In the following section, we have discussed the different ways you can use it.

How To Use Saffron?

A tray with a cup of liquid saffron and a handful of dried saffron
Image: Shutterstock

Saffron not only imparts a distinct flavor and aroma but also makes your dish look more presentable. Saffron can be used in thread or ground form, depending on the recipe. If you are using saffron to garnish your dish and wish to create a visual impression, you can use threads. On the other hand, if you want the saffron to blend with your dish such that it is not obvious to the eye, you should go for its powdered form.

The uses of saffron and cooking tips given below will enable you to reap the maximum benefits from this magical spice:

  • You can prepare powdered saffron instead of buying it from a supplier. You can do this by grinding the saffron threads with a mortar and pestle. If you find it difficult to grind the threads due to the moisture content, add a pinch of sugar to them and then grind. This will make grinding easier without affecting your recipe.
  • You can make liquid saffron by adding 3 to 5 teaspoons of warm or boiling water to powdered saffron and allow it to infuse for 5 to 10 minutes. Store it in a jar for a few weeks and use it when needed. Liquid saffron can also be prepared with milk, vinegar, or wine instead of water. It is usually added to other ingredients towards the end of cooking to draw out the color and disperse the flavor throughout the dish.
  • You can also make saffron milk. You need 1 cup of boiled milk, a pinch of saffron, and 2 teaspoons of sugar (if needed). Add the sugar and saffron to boiled milk. This saffron milk tea can be a good addition to your regular routine.

Miriam James Sebastian, a vlogger, shares a quick and easy saffron-infused drink recipe that is beneficial for your skin and overall health. She emphasizes its benefits, like improved skin complexion, relief from PMS symptoms, and better digestion. She says, “It doesn’t even take you two minutes to make (i).” She adds, “I don’t drink it every day. I wouldn’t recommend you drink it every day; give one day’s gap.”

protip_icon Trivia
Saffron is widely used in perfumery and as a fabric dye. In India, it has a religious significance related to Hinduism as well.

Though it is easy to use saffron, it is important to know its dosage.

Saffron Dosage And Side Effects

Some research states that 10.5 grams of saffron a day can cause toxic side effects. These include headache, dizziness, and loss of appetite, weakness, and, in extreme cases, may also be harmful to the lungs and kidneys (26).

For pregnant women, the daily upper limit for saffron, as per some sources, is 5 grams (28). Taking saffron orally in large amounts during pregnancy can cause problems – it can lead to contractions of the uterus and miscarriage (29). There is insufficient information with respect to breastfeeding. Hence, avoid use and stay safe.

It is important to note that exposure to high levels of saffron could increase the miscarriage rate, as per studies done on female rats. Studies suggest the use of high dose saffron by pregnant women (29).

Global Saffron Market

According to the global saffron market analysis, the revenue from saffron is forecasted to grow at 7.3% CAGR through 2021 to 2029. Though saffron is formulated in powder, thread, and liquid forms, the thread segment is expected to dominate the market globally. Using powdered saffron in food, beverages, and medicines will also help increase its global market. However, the low availability of saffron in liquid form will affect its growth during the forecast period. Find out the exact percentage of saffron’s global market share here.

Global Saffron Market Segment Based On Formulation

Source: Maximize Market Research
protip_icon Trivia
The quality grade of saffron depends on its strength and age. The strength (flavor and color) of saffron decreases if the amount of yellow style mixed in with the red stigma increases.

Infographic: Saffron – A Peek At The World’s Most Expensive Spice

Saffron is considered red gold due to its high popularity and scarce availability. Its unique flavor and aroma have captured many hearts, which is why its popularity has not dwindled.

Discover in the infographic below why this spice is so expensive, some important statistics, and its global appeal.

all you need to know about saffron (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Saffron is a popular spice that boasts a varied nutritional profile. The benefits of saffron can be attributed to its active compounds like crocetin and safranal, which promote one’s overall health. Saffron may help boost energy, vitality, vision, immunity, and brain, gut, heart, and liver health. It may reduce inflammation, promote sleep, and accelerate wound healing. It is also good for your skin, as it can promote a healthy skin complexion. However, pregnant or breastfeeding women must not consume saffron. If you have any medical condition, consult your doctor before consuming saffron.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can saffron interact with medications?

Yes. Saffron can interact with medications like direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), which may increase the risk of bleeding (30). Always consult your doctor before using saffron if you are taking anticoagulant medications.

Does saffron work immediately?

Pallini Winnifred, RDN, says, “The effects of saffron may not be immediate, and it may take several weeks to notice any benefits.”

Does saffron help you lose weight?

Winnifred says, “Some studies have suggested that saffron may help with weight loss by reducing appetite, but more research is needed to confirm this.”

How much does 1 gram of saffron cost?

A gram of saffron can cost anywhere between $6 to $8.

Does saffron expire?

Though saffron does not expire or spoil, it can lose its flavor and potency over time (usually in two to four years).

How to know if my saffron is pure?

Pure saffron tastes slightly bitter. It does not taste sweet. If your saffron is tasting sweet, it may not be the one you want. Also, check for the ISO 3632-1:2011 certification on the pack.
You can also put a few threads of saffron on your tongue and suck them. Take them out and rub them on a tissue. If they color the tissue yellow, they are real. Otherwise, they are not.

What is the best way to store saffron?

You can store saffron in an airtight container in a cool and dark place. Do not store it in the refrigerator as the spice may develop fungus due to the moist environment all around.

Does saffron help treat acne?

There is no evidence that saffron can help in acne treatment.

Can I take saffron/saffron milk daily?

Yes, you can drink it every day to enjoy the benefits of kesar milk, such as protection from colds and flu and relieving menstrual symptoms. But be careful of the amount. Just 1 to 2 teaspoons should do. Pregnant women must keep away from saffron.

Should I take saffron in the morning or at night?

There is no specific time that is recommended for taking saffron. You can have it in the morning on an empty stomach, in the evening, or at night.

Does saffron help with anxiety?

The aroma of saffron has been found to help decrease stress-induced heart rate variability, it is mood-enhancing, and it improves depressive symptoms in people (31).

Key Takeaways

  • Saffron is a unique spice with multiple benefits. Its source is a flower named Crocus Sativus.
  • Saffron has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties which benefit our immune system, improve our brain health, protect us against skin damage, and improve menstrual cramps and other issues.
  • Saffron also manages anxiety, regulates blood pressure, and improves metabolism.
  • Saffron has been in medical use for centuries. Ayurvedic medicines often contain saffron as a main ingredient for many diseases.

Illustration: Benefits Of Saffron(Kesar) For Skin & Health & How To Use It

saffron benefits

Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team

References

Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.

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Madhu Sharma is a member of the National Executive Committee of IDA. She has been associated for almost three decades with Pediatric Nutrition at PGI while serving in the Gastroenterology Department (20 years) and then the Advanced Pediatric Center (10 yrs) at PGIMER, Chandigarh.

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  • Pallini WinnifredRDN Pallini Winnifred, RDN, serves over 200 clients in the NYC area. She has a bachelor's degree in Nutrition Science from Stony Brook University and two years of experience in nutrition counseling.
    Pallini Winnifred, RDN, serves over 200 clients in the NYC area. She has a bachelor's degree in Nutrition Science from Stony Brook University and two years of experience in nutrition counseling.
  • Valeria DolbelCertified Holistic Nutritionist Valeria Dolbel is a Certified Holistic Nutritionist who specializes in plant-based nutrition and holistic gut, hormone, and skin health. She also has an advanced diploma in anti-aging nutrition from the Academy of Beauty Nutrition and a certificate in beauty nutrition.
    Valeria Dolbel is a Certified Holistic Nutritionist who specializes in plant-based nutrition and holistic gut, hormone, and skin health. She also has an advanced diploma in anti-aging nutrition from the Academy of Beauty Nutrition and a certificate in beauty nutrition.
Ravi Teja Tadimalla
Ravi Teja TadimallaCo-Editor-in-Chief
Ravi Teja Tadimalla is a Co-Editor-in-Chief and a published author. He has been in the digital media field for over a decade. He graduated from SRM University, Chennai, and has a Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition & Research from Wageningen University.

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Arshiya Syeda
Arshiya SyedaCo-Editor-in-Chief
Arshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.

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Sindhu Koganti
Sindhu KogantiSenior Health & Wellness Writer
Sindhu Koganti is a Certified Health and Nutrition Life Coach and has over 6 years of experience in writing on health and wellness topics. She has a bachelor’s degree in biotechnology from Acharya Nagarjuna University, Guntur, and a diploma in nutrition from Fab Academy.

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