Believe it or not, we have all heard of saffron, especially those who enjoy watching historical dramas. However, the medicinal uses of saffron go beyond what we know. It is not just known for causing abortions or infertility. Let's explore some of the benefits and effects of saffron.
Benefits and Effects of Saffron
Saffron has multiple benefits for our health and beauty:
1. Beauty and Skincare: Saffron contains carotenoids that can dissolve the melanin in our skin, helping to remove blemishes and acne caused by toxin or melanin accumulation. It can give us clean and fair skin while promoting skin vitality.
2. Blood Circulation and Dispelling Stasis: Saffron contains a large amount of medicinal compounds that help with blood circulation and dispelling stasis. It is especially beneficial for relieving abdominal pain caused by congestion, as well as bruises and injuries.
3. Detoxification: Saffron has detoxifying properties that help eliminate toxins from the skin, promote blood circulation, accelerate metabolism, and stimulate cell regeneration.
4. Calming and Relaxing: Saffron contains yellow pigments that can alleviate symptoms caused by ischemic hypoxia, myocardial hypoxia, and cerebral hypoxia. It can also help relieve fatigue, suppress the central nervous system, and have a calming effect.
Side Effects of Saffron
While saffron is not toxic, incorrect usage or excessive consumption can cause harm to the body.
1. Infertility: Consuming saffron before pregnancy does not cause infertility. However, repeated intake during pregnancy or consumption based on individual constitution may lead to miscarriage.
2. Blood Circulation: The blood circulation-promoting effect of saffron is not as strong as some claim. In cases of infertility caused by blocked fallopian tubes, saffron can be used clinically to promote blood circulation and unblock meridians, which may actually assist with pregnancy.
3. Improper Usage: Improper usage of saffron can cause excessive menstrual bleeding or cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Pregnant women should avoid saffron as it may lead to miscarriage.
4. Neurological Effects and Allergic Reactions: Prolonged and excessive consumption of saffron by healthy women can cause "chronic cumulative saffron poisoning" due to its stimulating effect on the nervous system and potential allergic reactions. Symptoms may include confusion, tremors, seizures, respiratory excitement followed by depression, and even circulatory and respiratory failure. Some individuals may experience dizziness, rashes, and transient urticaria.
