I have always had a light menstrual flow, and my friends have recommended that I try drinking saffron. I am not familiar with this herb, so I would like to ask if it is okay to drink saffron water for a light menstrual flow.
Is it okay to drink saffron water for a light menstrual flow?
Yes, it is.
A light menstrual flow refers to a lesser amount of blood during menstruation compared to normal. Traditional Chinese medicine attributes this to blood deficiency, qi stagnation, blood stasis, cold congealment, and phlegm obstruction.
Saffron is a precious Chinese herb that has the functions of promoting blood circulation, removing blood stasis, cooling blood, detoxifying, and calming the mind. It can be used to treat female menstrual disorders, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, palpitations, and restlessness. It can assist in treating a light menstrual flow to a certain extent, but it does not have a therapeutic effect on all cases of a light menstrual flow.
What type of light menstrual flow can saffron water treat?
Blood stasis type light menstrual flow.
A light menstrual flow due to blood stasis is caused by blood congestion, blockage of the Chong and Ren meridians, and sluggish blood circulation. Common symptoms include a light menstrual flow, dark-colored menstrual blood with clots, cool pain in the lower abdomen, preference for warmth and resistance to pressure, and reduced pain after blood clots are discharged.
Saffron has a strong effect in promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis. It can open up the body's blood vessels and meridians, maintain smooth blood flow, and regulate hormone levels. It can assist in treating a light menstrual flow caused by blood stasis.
Can saffron water be consumed during menstruation?
It is not recommended to drink saffron water during menstruation.
Saffron has a strong effect in promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis. It can stimulate uterine blood vessels. Taking saffron during menstruation may increase menstrual blood flow and even lead to heavy bleeding. Even for a light menstrual flow, saffron should be taken under the guidance of a doctor to avoid prolonged or excessive bleeding.
When is the best time to drink saffron water for menstrual regulation?
14 days before menstruation or 1 week after menstruation.
To regulate menstruation with saffron, you can start taking saffron about 14 days before menstruation. The blood circulation-promoting effect of saffron can help improve menstrual conditions to a certain extent. You can also take saffron 1 week after menstruation to replenish blood volume due to the blood-nourishing effect of saffron.
What should be noted when drinking saffron water?
1. Dosage
The usual dosage of saffron is 1-3 grams, while for saffron water, 5-8 stigmas are sufficient. Excessive consumption should be avoided because of the strong blood circulation-promoting effect of saffron. Overdose may cause bleeding, fainting, confusion, and other toxic reactions. If saffron is used for treating amenorrhea, it is advisable to consult a doctor for better dosage guidance.
2. Not recommended for daily consumption
Saffron has strong physiological activity and can stimulate nerves and blood vessels. Daily consumption may cause symptoms such as mental excitement or bleeding in certain parts of the body. It is generally recommended to take saffron for 3-4 days and then stop for 1-2 days.
3. Not suitable for those with bleeding issues
Saffron has the function of promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis. Taking saffron by individuals with gastric or intestinal ulcers or bleeding may cause ulcer rupture or increased bleeding at the original bleeding site, and even lead to severe bleeding.
