Let's agree, an Indian kitchen is a treasure trove of a range of amazing herbs and spices. One such popular spice option is kesar (or saffron). Largely grown in Jammu and Kashmir (in India), this prized spice has a rich history of its own. It is widely used in Indian, Middle Eastern and European cuisine, lending its dark red colouring and sweet, earthy flavour to the dishes. Besides, it's extremely healthy as well. While the exact origin of kesar still remains uncertain, its medicinal usage is well-documented throughout history. Even Hippocrates - the father of medicine - had recommended the use of saffron in the fourth century BC. According to an article in Research Gate, Hippocrates stated that saffron may be utilised as a folk remedy against scarlet fever, smallpox, colds, asthma, eye and heart diseases, tumours and more.
In India, kesar has been a part of the traditional medical practice for ages. As per historians, the queens used to bath in kesar water for its beauty benefits. Kesar also has aphrodisiac effects; this is why physicians prescribed it to treat stress and several other ailments.
Also Read: This Simple Test Will Tell You If The Saffron You Just Bought Is Adulterated
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Health Benefits Of Saffron: How To Include Saffron To Your Diet:
A spice extracted from the flowers of crocus sativus Linne, saffron is a store-house of vitamins, antioxidants, iron, potassium et al. All these nutrients help promote overall health and nourish us from within.
Saffron Usage:
Health experts suggest, one can prepare kesar detox water or kesar doodh to enjoy the benefits to the fullest. And for the ones who avoid milk in their diet, kesar tea is the perfect option to go for. Moreover, the warmth in kesar makes the drink a great choice to add to your winter diet, suggests celebrity nutritionist Lovneet Batra.
Health Benefits Of Kesar Tea:
1. Boost Immunity:
According to celebrity nutritionist Lovneet Batra, "Saffron is one of the richest sources of riboflavin - a B-vitamin that helps you maintain a healthy immunity system."
2. Prevent Seasonal Cold And Flu:
She further states that saffron tea contains safranal - an antioxidant that may help increase anti-bacterial and anti-viral activities in the body.
3. Promote Digestion:
Several studies have shown that the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties in saffron promote metabolism and digestive health. This may further help prevent several gastrointestinal disorders.
4. Boost Memory:
She adds that saffron contains two chemicals -crocin and crocetin. These chemicals, according to study, may help promote learning and memory functions.
5. Promote Heart Health:
As per several studies, the antioxidants in saffron can help manage cholesterol and blood pressure levels in body, further reducing the risk of heart-related problems
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How do you drink saffron tea?
Saffron Tea Recipe: How To Make Kesar Chai:
Method To Make Saffron Tea:
- Boil 1 cup water.
- Lower the flame and add two strands of kesar to it. Let it simmer for a minute or two.
- Strain the water in a cup, add some honey and take a sip.
For the ones who like milk, here's kesar doodh recipe for you. Click here to know more.
Always remember to consult an expert before making any food and lifestyle-related changes. Eat healthy, stay fit!
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.