Let us be honest - when someone says "candy," our first thought is usually guilt, not health. But what if we told you that a certain kind of candy might actually help your immune system? No, it is not one of those wellness fads. We are talking about saffron and jaggery candies - yes, the good old Ayurvedic combo your nani swore by. These bite-sized sweets are not just delicious; they are packed with ingredients that have been used for centuries to support overall health, especially during seasonal changes.
Turns out that there is actual science backing up the benefits of these two ingredients. Saffron, often called "red gold" (because yes, it is that expensive), is rich in antioxidants and helps with everything from mood to immunity. Jaggery, on the other hand, is not just a sugar substitute - it is full of minerals and helps the body detox, digest and stay warm in colder months. So the next time you are craving something sweet post-dinner, one of these little candies might be the smarter choice.
Let us break down how each of these ingredients is doing more than just sweet-talking your taste buds.
Also Read: 5 Ways You Can Use Saffron To Build Immunity, Fight Cold And Cough In Winter
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Why Saffron Is More Than Just Fancy Spice | Health Benefits of Saffron:
Saffron might look delicate, but it is a serious overachiever in the health department. Dr Sachin, BAMS, a medical advisor at Rasayanam Ayurveda, says it has long been used not just for flavour and colour but also for its strong medicinal properties.
1. Rich In Immunity-Boosting Antioxidants
Saffron contains antioxidants like crocin, crocetin, and safranal. These are not just fancy names - they help fight oxidative stress, which can wear down your immune system over time. Basically, saffron helps your cells stay strong and ready to fight off infections.
2. Helps You Stay Calm (Which Helps Your Immunity, Too)
Stress messes with your body, and your immune system often takes the biggest hit. Saffron helps regulate serotonin (your happy hormone), so you are more relaxed-and a calmer body is better equipped to fight off illnesses.
3. Natural Defence Against Germs
Some studies suggest saffron has antibacterial and antiviral properties. So, if your immune system needs backup during flu season, saffron might quietly be helping in the background.
4. Good For Your Lungs
From soothing a scratchy throat to helping with nasal congestion, saffron has natural anti-inflammatory properties. It is helpful, especially when the weather is doing its usual confusing back-and-forth.
Also Read: Can You Have Saffron or Kesar In Summers?
Jaggery Is Not Just "Better Than Sugar"; It Is Packed With Benefits | Health Benefits of Jaggery:
If you have grown up in India, chances are jaggery was the answer to everything-from digestion to cough. And it turns out that old wisdom holds up. Nutritionist Stuti Garg at Dhampur Green calls jaggery a nutrient-rich sweetener that does much more than just replace sugar.
1. Full Of Antioxidants
Just like saffron, jaggery is loaded with antioxidants. It helps fight free radicals, which can damage your cells and weaken your immunity over time.
2. Helps Detox Your Body
Your liver does the heavy lifting when it comes to detoxifying your system, and jaggery supports that process naturally. A little daily intake can help flush out toxins gently over time.
3. Perfect For Weather Swings
The warming nature of jaggery makes it a go-to during seasonal changes. Think of it as your body's built-in comfort blanket - especially when your throat starts acting up.
4. Supports Digestion And Gut Health
It is not just a myth-jaggery really does help after meals. It stimulates digestive enzymes and promotes a healthy gut microbiome, which plays a key role in keeping your immunity strong.
5. Energy Without The Crash
Refined sugar spikes your energy and then dumps you an hour later. Jaggery, on the other hand, releases energy more slowly, keeping you active and balanced for longer.
Also Read: Should You Replace Sugar With Jaggery? Celeb Nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar Explains
So, Should You Be Eating Saffron And Jaggery Candies Daily?
Well, they are still candies, so moderation is key. But unlike your average sweet, these do more than just satisfy a sugar craving. They combine centuries-old wisdom with real health benefits-especially for immunity, digestion, and stress.
Think of them as your little sweet boost that does not come with the guilt trip. Just one or two pieces a day, especially after meals or during seasonal transitions, could go a long way in supporting your wellness routine. Let us be real - if something that tastes this good can also help your immune system, why not?
Also Read: 15 Jaggery(Gur) Benefits: Ever Wondered Why Our Elders End a Meal with Gur?