The king of spices, Saffron or Kesar also well known as 'Zafran', ‘Koung’ or ‘Kumkumapoovu’ has its own importance in the traditional spices so much so that it is also used as a medical supplement.
Saffron is often recommended by elderly women to expecting mothers owing to its therapeutic properties like aiding digestion and improving the appetite of the pregnant woman. But like any other herb, there needs to be moderation in the consumption of Saffron. One may find a lot of myths associated with the consumption of Kesar during pregnancy. Let’s bust a few of them and know Saffron better.
Saffron is the dried stigma of the Crocus Sativus flower, i.e. the thread-like part at the centre of the flower which contains pollen. A single flower contains only three strands of saffron. Obtaining saffron involves a great deal of human labor, thus making it one of the most popular and expensive herbs across the globe.
This golden herb, in India, is produced in the valleys of Kashmir and has always been in high demand. It is often regarded as the ‘king of spices’ and commands a huge price. In India, it's highly believed that the consumption of saffron during pregnancy is good.
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From Biryani, kheer, and other sweets to beauty creams, saffron has a diverse use. Apart from aiding digestion, saffron is also found effective for women to get relief from menstrual discomfort and Premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Even though we lack medical evidence that saffron helps in male infertility, asthma, erectile dysfunction, cancer baldness, it is recommended in these cases. People who have used saffron claim its efficacy and benefits.
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“Have enough saffron. It will improve your baby’s complexion.”
You might have come through this a lot many times during your pregnancy.
Ever wondered if it really is true?
Let us tell you, it’s nothing but a myth. In fact, overconsumption of saffron can be fatal for the mother and the baby. No research proves that consumption of saffron and milk regularly during pregnancy leads to having a fairer baby, though there are other saffron benefits in pregnancy.
The baby’s complexion in no way depends on the saffron intake of the mother. A child’s complexion is determined by hereditary factors and genes, and anything you eat or drink will not have any effect on him or her. Rather, excessive intake of saffron during pregnancy can cause other complications and even miscarriage.
Saffron is an exotic spice that benefits expecting mothers in numerous ways. It is safe to take a little amount of saffron added to milk during pregnancy. Milk, again, is a great source of calcium – that you need a lot of – when you are pregnant. Adding a strand or two in your glass of milk can relax your muscles, heal you internally, improve and boost digestion, and soothe you. You can also use saffron in your dishes, especially in kheers, biryanis, and lassis.
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The hormonal surges during pregnancy can make you cranky and impulsive. Saffron acts as an antidepressant in those gloomy days by boosting blood flow to your brain, producing serotonin, a hormone that will raise your spirit.
Adding 3 to 4 strands of saffron in milk can help you reduce blood pressure in pregnant women. Saffron also relaxes the muscles and acts as a uterine stimulant.
Constipation, gas and bloating are a few of the common complaints during the gestation period. Saffron promotes blood flow to the digestive system and increases metabolism.
Saffron tea can help you fight nausea and dizziness during pregnancy.
Most women during pregnancy are anaemic. Regular intake of saffron in the food will boost haemoglobin in the blood curing your anaemia.
Packed with high antioxidants, potassium, and crocetin contents, saffron protects you and your baby’s heart by reducing cholesterol and triglycerides.
A warm cup of saffron milk at night can put you to a peaceful goodnight’s sleep.
Saffron-infused milk holds the power to soothe coughs, asthma, allergies and relieve congestion. Applying the paste of sandalwood and saffron is said to bring down a fever.
Saffron purifies the blood and helps you combat hormonal imbalance, pimples and skin darkness.
Expecting moms can feel their baby move the moment she has a glass of saffron and milk. You can feel the baby movement as the body heat increases with saffron. However, avoid large quantities of saffron and note that baby movements can be felt only after months.
With all these benefits, it’s highly recommended that you saffron to your diet during pregnancy but in moderation.
Safe to drink saffron milk at night?
Saffron milk during breastfeeding?
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