A popular typical spice in Spain with beneficial properties in preventing Alzheimer’s disease and depression.
Saffron, whose scientific name is Crocus sativa, is a spice obtained from the stigmas of the flowers of this perennial plant, native to Southwest Asia and spread across all continents until it reached Europe and North Africa. This spice has been cultivated for over 3,500 years and is known both for its golden yellow color and its unique flavor and aroma.
Historically, it was so valuable that some cultures even used it as currency. The Greeks and Romans valued it for its culinary and medicinal properties., using it in infusions to improve digestion and as a powerful dye in fabrics. Its cultivation is believed to have spread throughout Europe through trade routes managed by the Phoenicians, and later became popular in Spain during the period of Arab rule.
Today it remains one of the most expensive spices in the world, mainly due to the intensive labor required to harvest it. Each saffron flower produces only three stigmas. To obtain one kilogram of dried saffron, about 150,000 flowers are needed.. This careful process ensures that the spice maintains its quality and potency.
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Culinarily, it is especially prized in Spanish, Italian and Middle Eastern cuisine. It is a distinctive ingredient in dishes such as Spanish paella, Milanese risotto Italian and a variety of stews and pilaf from the Middle East.
Besides its culinary uses, it has received a reappraisal in modern medicine, where recent research began to explore its properties as an antidepressant. and its potential to improve memory and combat neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.
This is why including saffron in the diet has shown promising results in improving cognitive function, especially in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease.
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Research published in scientific journals such as Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics show that Daily doses of saffron extract can significantly improve memory and other cognitive abilities.superior to placebo in controlled studies. This discovery suggests that saffron not only adds flavor to food, but may also be a potential tool in the fight against neurodegeneration.
A direct comparison of saffron with traditional drugs such as donepezil suggests that the spice may be just as effective in treating Alzheimer’s disease.
Given its non-pharmacological nature and lack of serious side effects, it has been studied as a valuable therapeutic alternative, especially for those who are sensitive to conventional medications. Always under medical supervision and careful supervision of specialists.
Protection against oxidative stress
Saffron is also rich in antioxidants, especially flavonoids, which protect cells from oxidative damage. Inflammation and oxidative stress are known contributors to the development of chronic diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases.
Therefore, it may play a critical role in mitigating these pathological processes by helping to maintain the structural and functional integrity of the brain. In addition to cognitive benefits, this spice has been shown to have antidepressant properties in several clinical studies.
It has been found to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression, offering a natural treatment option for major depressive disorder that is less likely to cause the side effects associated with traditional antidepressants.
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It may even provide protection against long-term cognitive decline. This preventive effect is especially valuable in societies with aging populations, where the incidence of diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease is rising.
It has also been studied for its potential cardiovascular benefits. Research published in Molecules highlights that saffron may be beneficial for heart health due to its antioxidant properties. They help lower blood pressure and prevent plaque from forming in the arteries.. These effects may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes.
Additionally, it has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which are essential for reducing the risk of certain chronic diseases. Article in Journal of Translational Medicine suggests it may suppress markers of inflammation in the body, which is beneficial not only for cardiovascular health, but also for conditions such as arthritis and asthma.
It improves sleep quality
In addition to these nutrients, it contains essential nutritional components that support optimal brain function. It is particularly rich in certain minerals, such as magnesium, which is essential for many biological functions, including neurotransmission and protection against oxidative stress. A molecule that also helps improve sleep quality and reduce stress, which is essential for mental and emotional health.
The relationship between the brain and the gastrointestinal system, often referred to as the gut-brain axis, is critical to overall health. This is why this famous spice, due to its positive effects on inflammation and gut health, may benefit this axis. improving the connection between the brain and the gutwhich in turn benefits mental and cognitive health.
One of the big advantages is also its versatility in the kitchen. It can be easily added to a variety of dishes, from rice and stews to soups and sauces, making it a regular addition to your diet without requiring drastic changes to your eating habits.