Known as 'Red Gold,' saffron is celebrated not just for its vibrant colour and distinct flavour in dishes like paella, but also for its remarkable potential in modern medicine. This ancient spice, hailed as the world's most expensive, is now at the forefront of research for treating conditions from depression to Alzheimer's disease.
A Powerhouse of Antioxidants and Brain Health
Packed with immunity-boosting vitamin C and the nervous system-regulating mineral manganese, saffron is a nutritional treasure. Its potent antioxidants, including crocetin, crocin, and safranal, are known to combat cancer and are now being studied for their profound effects on the brain.
Research has found that these antioxidants can improve cognitive function in people with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease, a form of dementia affecting more than 7 million Americans. According to Cleveland Clinic registered dietitian Beth Czerwony, "The antioxidants in saffron could help protect the brain from damage."
Combating Depression and Women's Health
The mental health benefits of saffron are particularly compelling. Several studies indicate that consuming saffron could help alleviate the debilitating symptoms of depression, a condition affecting an estimated 21 million American adults.
Notably, research shows saffron could be effective at battling premenstrual syndrome (PMS)-related depression in women. "Saffron could become a future depression treatment if we get more evidence and data," says Czerwony. However, she cautions that larger studies looking at long-term outcomes are needed before saffron can replace proven depression medications.
Heart, Eyes, and Ancient Remedies
The benefits of this precious spice extend well beyond brain health. Banner – University Medicine dietitian Lori Schnelker explains that saffron has been shown to reduce inflammation in the eye, helping to decrease the risk for conditions like macular degeneration.
For cardiovascular health, saffron may help prevent heart disease, America's leading cause of death, by lowering levels of harmful cholesterol. "Saffron, like garlic and cinnamon, also has potential heart benefits such as lowering cholesterol and [bad LDL cholesterol] levels and improving HDL levels," Schnelker said. "This can help reduce the risk of heart attacks and stroke."
Its uses in health also stretch back thousands of years into folk medicine, where it's been used as an anti-seizure remedy in Iranian traditions, though more research is needed to confirm its safety and effectiveness for this purpose.
With roots in ancient Greece and western Asia over 3,000 years ago, saffron comes from the purple Crocus sativus flower. Its hefty price tag—around $16 for just three grams online—is due to an incredibly labour-intensive harvest. It takes approximately 150 to 170 flowers to produce one gram of spice, and about 4,000 flowers for a single ounce.
Whether used in teas, crushed as a powder, or added to sweet and savoury meals from puddings to risottos, saffron's versatility is as impressive as its growing list of potential health benefits.
