Saffron is known for the exorbitant price it comes in, but also for its medicinal purposes. This king of spices is obtained from the flower Zaffaran and is rich in essential nutrients, known for therapeutic purposes. It has been widely used for the color and medicinal purposes, on biryanis, kheer, and traditional sweets. This main reason is that fatty items that are found in biryanis and sweets will cause digestive problems in the stomach, as the walls cannot digest such rich items. The saffron helps in regulating the digestive problems.
There are many uses of saffron for both men and women, of all ages and conditions, especially during pregnancy. There are many myths that are associated with consumption of saffron during pregnancy, but between these myths lay the true benefits of their consumption.
Please note that when taken in high quantities can cause body heat and must be taken in small quantities. They can be taken with milk or rice, during the first trimester of pregnancy. Having saffron with water can be done when the mother feels any digestive problems.
Benefits:
Mood Swings:
Mood swings are common during pregnancy and menstruation. This is because of the various changes that the body is going through, and so the body feels uncomfortable. Also, the body produces a hormone, which makes one cranky and sad. Saffron is known to act as an anti-depressant, thus keeping you happy on those tearful days.
Blood Pressure:
Saffron reduces the fatty cholesterol of the body, keeping the heart healthy. How does it work? The anti-depressants and anti-oxidants present in the saffron will help lower the level of cholesterol. This is done as they are properly digested by the gastric acid present in the stomach. Then the cholesterol content lowers, the body is ridden of toxins, making it healthy.
When the cholesterol is not properly absorbed by the body, they accumulate as fat in various parts of the body, including the lining of the heart walls, making it difficult to pump blood and causing heart attacks.
Digestion:
Saffron is consumed when the person is feeling any digestive problems and heart burns. The saffron is rich in antioxidants, which help in supplying the blood to all parts of the body. This helps in proper digestion of the food consumed and reduced cramps. The anti-spasmodic effect of the saffron is also helping stomach cramps and pains that a person may experience.
Nausea:
Having morning sickness and stomach cramps are a common part of the different stages of pregnancy, especially the initial stages. This is because of the different changes that are happening in your body and causes discomfort. Saffron can help relieve that to a certain extent.
Sleep:
The anti-oxidants and other components of saffron help one relax, as it acts as an anti-depressant and stress relieving agent. A pregnant lady should always be kept happy, as the baby is directly affected. Having a glass of saffron will help the mind in relaxing and calming. This will enable the person to fall asleep peacefully, and undisturbed. Have a glass of warm milk, add a small pinch of saffron to it, and have it before sleeping. You can also add honey for taste.
Movement of Baby:
Usually, at normal pregnant dates, the fetus takes five months, for enough growth and movement. The movement can be seen almost immediately after the saffron is taken. This is said to be a myth, but has in fact happened to many women. The consumption of saffron has an immediate effect on the blood circulation, which makes the baby move around. It is also believed that having saffron during pregnancy will ensure the baby to have a healthy and fairer complexion during birth. Although the genes of the parents play the main role in the color of the baby, saffron is said to boost the complexion.
The saffron is rare to obtain and will probably cost you more than all your home spices put together, but knowing that it will benefit your baby, is all worth it. The pregnant ladies can consume this as how they wish, and benefit from it. Also, they have not proven to be harmful to the fetus, instead of useful.
