What are the benefits and effects of drinking saffron steeped in water?
Soaking saffron in water for consumption offers many benefits, typically including aiding sleep, protecting the liver and promoting bile secretion, relieving depression, improving blood circulation, and supporting heart health. Specific details are as follows:
1. Aiding Sleep
Some components in saffron are believed to help regulate the sleep cycle and improve sleep quality. Saffron can promote relaxation and reduce the time needed to fall asleep, thereby helping to relieve mild insomnia or sleep disturbances.
2. Protecting the Liver and Promoting Bile Secretion
Drinking saffron-infused water can reduce cholesterol absorption in the body, stimulate bile secretion and excretion, thus exerting protective effects on the liver and gallbladder. This helps improve liver function, alleviate disruptions in liver detoxification, lower cholesterol levels, and support cardiovascular health.
3. Relieving Depression
Saffron contains components that promote the secretion of neurotransmitters, which can elevate mood and alleviate depressive symptoms. Individuals experiencing emotional instability or mild depression may benefit from moderate consumption of saffron water by improving their emotional well-being.
4. Promoting Blood Circulation
Saffron has vasodilatory effects, enhancing blood flow and improving microcirculation. It plays a positive role in preventing cardiovascular diseases and can also help relieve symptoms such as cold hands and feet.
5. Protecting the Heart
Drinking saffron water enhances cellular oxygen metabolism, offering protective effects on the heart and helping prevent cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Active compounds in saffron can lower blood pressure, reduce cardiac workload, and increase the heart's tolerance to hypoxia, thus contributing to overall heart health.
However, drinking saffron water may also cause certain side effects. Special populations such as nursing mothers, pregnant women, and individuals with heavy menstrual bleeding should consume it cautiously or avoid it altogether.