Name the most expensive spice that is largely cultivated in India. Yes, you guessed it right! We are talking about saffron, or kesar as we refer to it in Hindi. A prized spice available in almost every Indian kitchen, kesar has a rich history of its own. It lends a dark red colour and sweet earthy flavour to your food, making it look and taste exotic. But did you know, these fine red-coloured strands have more to them that being a natural colouring agent? Saffron is extremely healthy as well. According to an article in Research Gate, Hippocrates - the father of medicine - claimed that saffron was used in traditional medical practice as a remedy against smallpox, cold, eye, and heart diseases amongst others.
While studying its nutrients and benefits, we recently came across an Instagram post by nutritionist Lovneet Batra, where she describes the reasons to include saffron tea in your diet. "In the world of nutrition, there is a hidden gem that has been cherished for centuries - saffron tea. Let me take you on a journey through the marvelous benefits of this golden elixir," she explains in her post.
Also Read: Is Saffron A Natural Anti-Depressant? See What Experts Say
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Here Are 5 Nutritionist-Recommended Reasons To Include Saffron Tea In Your Diet:
1. High In Antioxidants:
Saffron is a rich source of antioxidants that help flush out unwanted toxins from your body, further preventing inflammation.
2. Improve Cognitive Health:
Saffron contains two very important chemicals - crocin and crocetin, which according to studies may help reduce inflammation and oxidative damage in the brain. These factors, as per the expert, may further help with learning and memory function in humans.
3. Strengthen Immunity:
Saffron is considered one of the rich sources of riboflavin - a B vitamin known to maintain a healthy immunity system. It also contains an antioxidant named safranal, which is known to increase antibacterial and antiviral activities in the body.
4. Prevent Fungal Infections:
Alongside antioxidants, saffron also contains flavonoids that help promote weight loss. Besides, flavonoids are also known for their anti-fungal properties that make saffron an amazing ingredient for your skin health as well.
5. Manage PMS Symptoms:
Crocin and safranal in saffron are known to decrease the severity of PMS (premenstrual syndrome) symptoms. Alongside, it also helps boost the occupational and social performance of an individual, states Lovneet Batra.
How To Make Saffron Tea:
It is super simple. All you need to do is, boil water and add two strands of saffron in it. close the lid and let it infuse for five minutes. Strain the tea and sip on it early in the morning. But remember, saffron is hot in nature, so do not go overboard with the drink.
In fact, the best practice is to consult an expert and understand the dosage, before including the tea in your daily diet. Eat healthy, and stay wise!
(Note: The recipe is not a part of the expert recommendation)
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.