Home
Articles
Q&A

What are the functions and effects of saffron?

Sep 04, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the main effects and benefits of saffron include promoting blood circulation to regulate menstruation, relieving depression and calming the mind, improving complexion and beauty, supporting heart health, promoting bile secretion and reducing jaundice. When using saffron, attention should be paid to the dosage, typically 1-3 grams per use; excessive amounts may cause discomfort. Pregnant women are strictly prohibited from using saffron to avoid adverse effects on their health. Additionally, saffron should be purchased from reputable sources to ensure quality.

Generally speaking, the main functions and benefits of saffron include promoting blood circulation to regulate menstruation, relieving depression and calming the mind, beautifying the skin, supporting heart health, promoting bile secretion and alleviating jaundice. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Promoting Blood Circulation and Regulating Menstruation

Saffron contains active ingredients that can promote blood circulation and vital energy (Qi) flow. For conditions such as irregular menstruation, amenorrhea, and dysmenorrhea caused by Qi and blood stagnation, appropriate use of saffron can improve blood circulation, alleviate menstrual discomfort, and help maintain a smooth internal environment of Qi and blood. It is commonly used in traditional practices for menstrual regulation.

2. Relieving Depression and Calming the Mind

The effective ingredients in saffron can act on the nervous system and help relieve emotional stress. For symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and insomnia caused by emotional imbalances, appropriate use of saffron can regulate mood, stabilize emotional fluctuations, improve sleep quality, and help maintain a calm mental state.

3. Skin Beautification and Nourishment

Saffron can enhance the body's metabolism and help eliminate excess impurities from the skin. Long-term, appropriate use can help maintain a rosy and lustrous complexion, providing auxiliary effects for improving dullness and roughness of the skin. It is often used in beauty care and can be steeped in water or combined with other skin-nourishing ingredients.

4. Supporting Heart Health

Ingredients in saffron help maintain vascular elasticity and promote blood circulation. Appropriate use can support the cardiovascular system, assist in maintaining healthy blood vessels, and help sustain good circulation, thereby supporting normal heart function.

5. Promoting Bile Secretion and Alleviating Jaundice

In traditional applications, saffron can assist in promoting bile secretion and excretion. For jaundice caused by bile stasis, appropriate use of saffron can help improve bile flow, alleviate related discomforts, and support the normal functioning of the liver and gallbladder.

When using saffron, attention should be paid to the dosage—1 to 3 grams per use is sufficient, as excessive use may cause discomfort. Pregnant women must not use it to avoid adverse effects on the body. It should be purchased from reputable sources to ensure quality. If symptoms such as dizziness or nausea occur after use, discontinue immediately and consult a professional if necessary.

Related Articles

View All
Can patients with leukemia drink saffron?
In general, leukemia patients can drink saffron, but it is not recommended to consume it excessively. The amount of saffron should be strictly controlled—only a small quantity should be used to steep in water each time, avoiding excessive intake that may cause discomfort. Patients must consult their attending physician beforehand, especially those undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy, or those with thrombocytopenia or coagulation disorders, to prevent potential bleeding risks.
avatar
Dr. Liu Feng
View Full Answer
Who is saffron suitable for consumption?
Under normal circumstances, saffron is suitable for individuals with irregular menstruation, poor sleep quality, weakened immunity, those seeking beauty benefits, and those requiring cardiovascular health maintenance. In addition, patients with hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism should consume saffron cautiously and preferably consult a healthcare professional before consumption. Moreover, saffron intake should be moderated, as excessive consumption may cause discomfort.
avatar
Dr. Sun Lianqing
View Full Answer
What should saffron not be consumed with?
Under normal circumstances, saffron should not be consumed together with foods such as crabs, hawthorn, strong tea, alcoholic beverages, garlic, etc., nor should it be taken with medications such as warfarin sodium tablets, aspirin enteric-coated tablets, clopidogrel bisulfate tablets, heparin sodium injection, and dipyridamole tablets. Before consuming saffron regularly, one should confirm whether they are taking any of the aforementioned medications or consuming related foods.
avatar
Dr. Sun Lianqing
View Full Answer
What can saffron be combined with for making tea?
Under normal circumstances, saffron can be steeped in hot water along with other ingredients such as wolfberry, rose petals, honey, red dates, and longan. Additionally, when preparing saffron with other ingredients, it is important to control the amount of saffron used, typically 1-3 grams per serving, to avoid excessive intake. If gastrointestinal discomfort or other adverse reactions occur after consumption, usage should be discontinued immediately.
avatar
Dr. Sun Lianqing
View Full Answer
Is it safe to drink saffron-infused water during menstruation?
In general, whether one can drink saffron-infused water during menstruation mainly depends on individual physical condition and the specific circumstances of the menstrual period. Additionally, due to the unique physical state during menstruation, if unsure whether it is suitable for oneself, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional. Moreover, even if consumption is appropriate, one should also pay attention to the amount and frequency of intake to avoid adverse effects on the body.
avatar
Dr. Sun Lianqing
View Full Answer
Who should not drink saffron?
Saffron is not suitable for everyone. It is not recommended for pregnant women, women during menstruation, individuals with a tendency to bleed, those with weak spleen and stomach function, or patients with hyperthyroidism. In addition, children's organs are not fully developed, and their tolerance to saffron is lower, so they should also avoid consuming it. At the same time, in daily life, if saffron consumption is necessary, it is advisable to first consult a healthcare professional to ensure safety.
avatar
Dr. Sun Lianqing
View Full Answer
Can saffron that has been stored for 6 years still be consumed?
Under normal circumstances, whether saffron that has been stored for six years is still safe for consumption mainly depends on the storage conditions and the current state of the saffron. Additionally, even if the saffron appears and smells normal, its active ingredients may have diminished over six years of storage, resulting in reduced flavor and effectiveness. If you choose to consume it, it is recommended to start with a small amount. If any adverse reactions occur, discontinue use immediately.
avatar
Dr. Sun Lianqing
View Full Answer
What pairs best with saffron?
Generally speaking, there is no definitive answer to the question of "which ingredients saffron pairs best with." Depending on individual needs, saffron can be combined with ingredients such as honey, goji berries, red dates, rose petals, and chrysanthemum. Additionally, individuals with hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism should consult a healthcare professional before consuming saffron in combination with other ingredients.
avatar
Dr. Sun Lianqing
View Full Answer
彩牛养生

Your trusted source for health information and wellness guidance.

Quick Links

Resources

Connect

© 2024 HealthPortal. All rights reserved.