Many traditional Chinese herbs should not be taken on an empty stomach, and saffron is one of them. Many people do not pay attention to whether or not saffron can be taken on an empty stomach. So, can saffron be taken on an empty stomach?
Can saffron be taken on an empty stomach?
Yes, saffron can be taken on an empty stomach.
Saffron has a sweet taste and neutral properties. It has the effects of promoting blood circulation, resolving depression, calming the mind, cooling the blood, and detoxifying. It can be used to treat menstrual disorders, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, and restlessness caused by blood stasis. Many Chinese herbs should not be taken on an empty stomach because their properties can cause certain irritation. However, saffron has a mild nature and does not have a significant stimulating effect on the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, saffron can be taken on an empty stomach.
When is the best time to take saffron?
There is no strict time requirement.
In general, there is no strict time requirement for taking saffron. It can be taken at any time.
Taking it before meals
Taking saffron half an hour before meals can help it enter the intestines more quickly, facilitating the absorption of its medicinal properties and enhancing its effectiveness. Additionally, there is no food in the stomach and intestines before meals, which can minimize the adverse impact of food on the effectiveness of saffron water.
Taking it after meals
Half an hour after meals is when the secretion of enzymes in the stomach and intestines is most active. Taking saffron at this time can promote the absorption of its medicinal properties and further enhance its effectiveness. For individuals with weak gastrointestinal function, taking saffron after meals can reduce its impact on the gastrointestinal tract.
Can saffron be taken daily?
It is generally not recommended to take saffron daily.
Saffron has strong physiological effects on blood circulation and can stimulate both the nerves and blood vessels. Taking it daily can lead to symptoms such as mental excitement or sleep disturbances. Therefore, it is generally recommended to take saffron for 3-4 days and then stop for 1-2 days, or alternate days of consumption. If saffron is being used to treat a specific condition, it is advisable to consult a doctor for specific dosage instructions.
Precautions when taking saffron
1. Avoid excessive dosage
It is generally recommended to use 1-3 grams of saffron. If preparing saffron water, it is advisable to use 5-8 strands of saffron per serving. Excessive dosage should be avoided because saffron has strong physiological activity. Overdosing may lead to diarrhea, abdominal pain, and even serious consequences such as fainting or confusion.
2. Prevent allergic reactions
Saffron is made from the stigmas of the plant. It contains a large amount of pollen. Therefore, special attention should be paid to prevent allergies when taking saffron. If it is uncertain whether one is allergic to saffron, it is advisable to start with a small dose and continue if no discomfort occurs.
3. Not recommended during menstruation
It is not recommended to take saffron during menstruation. Saffron has a strong effect on promoting blood circulation and resolving blood stasis. It can stimulate the blood vessels of the uterus, which may lead to increased menstrual flow or incomplete discharge of menstrual blood.
Contraindications for taking saffron
Pregnant women
Pregnant women should not take saffron. Saffron has a stimulating effect on the smooth muscles of the uterus and can cause uterine contractions, which may result in abdominal discomfort or miscarriage.
Patients with gastric ulcers or bleeding
Saffron has the effect of promoting blood circulation and resolving blood stasis. It can stimulate the smooth muscles of the stomach and intestines, which may cause ulcers to rupture or increase bleeding at bleeding sites, and even lead to severe bleeding.
Individuals allergic to pollen
Saffron is made from the stigmas of the plant and contains a large amount of pollen. Individuals allergic to pollen should exercise caution when taking saffron to avoid symptoms such as nausea, itching, or a rash.
