Advantages of Saffron (Kesar) during pregnancy
One of my earliest memories of our saffron Business involves a man seeking pure saffron from my father for his expectant daughter. Since then, it’s been firmly etched in my mind that kesar offers incredible advantages during pregnancy, including making a baby’s complexion fair. Continue reading this article as we explore all the genuine advantages pure saffron offers during pregnancy, along with tips on proper consumption and its potential side effects.
What is Saffron?
Saffron, scientifically known as Crocus sativus, is a highly prized spice derived from the delicate stigma of the saffron crocus flower. It takes around 150,000 flowers to produce just one kilogram of saffron, making it one of the most expensive spices in the world. Widely cultivated in regions like Iran, India, and Greece, saffron is highly valued for its diverse culinary uses and healing properties — particularly during pregnancy.
| 1 gram kesar | Kashmiri Mongra 5 gram kesar | 10 gram kesar |
Nutritional Profile of Saffron
Within its tiny threads, saffron is packed with active compounds such as crocin, safranal, and picrocrocin, which contribute to its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities. Kesar is also a rich source of iron and essential vitamins and minerals that can be beneficial during pregnancy. It contains Vitamin A, Vitamin C and a moderate amount of folic acid as well. Additionally, Minerals such as potassium, magnesium, are also present in saffron.
Advantages of Saffron (Kesar) During Pregnancy
Saffron is consistently recommended to pregnant women in our culture especially by grandmothers and aunts who often believe in its age-old reputation for improving the unborn baby’s complexion. Despite these traditional beliefs Kesar offers a broader spectrum of advantages that may help during pregnancy, which extend well beyond cultural beliefs. However it is important to ensure that the saffron is pure and of high quality as there are many adulterated versions out there. Opt for authentic saffron brand during this special time. Without further delay, let’s explore the genuine advantages of saffron during pregnancy.
1. Mood Enhancement and Stress Reduction
Pregnancy often leads to hormonal fluctuations that affect mood and emotional well-being. Saffron is known for its natural mood-enhancing properties and antidepressant properties, helping alleviate mood swings and reduce postpartum depression1. Consuming saffron may boost serotonin levels, the ‘feel-good’ hormone, thereby promoting a sense of calm and happiness in expectant mothers2 .
2. Blood Pressure Regulation
Blood pressure management is crucial during pregnancy, as fluctuations in blood pressure levels can lead to complications such as preeclampsia. Saffron may assist in keeping blood pressure in check due to its inherent potassium content and antioxidant properties called crocin, picrocrocin, safranal, and crocetin 3It is important for expectant mothers to discuss with their healthcare provider to determine the safe amount of saffron to consume and the appropriate trimester for its use, as excessive intake may cause adverse effects.
3. Aids in Digestion
Research shows that saffron offers significant benefits during pregnancy by aiding in the treatment of various digestive disorders 4. Pregnant women often experience digestive issues like bloating, gas, and constipation. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, saffron can soothe the digestive tract and enhance blood flow to the stomach’s arteries, leading to improved digestion5. Incorporating a few strands of saffron into a glass of warm milk can help alleviate discomfort and promote regular bowel movements.
4. Boosts Heart Health
Maintaining cardiovascular health is crucial during pregnancy, as the heart works harder to pump blood for both the mother and the developing baby. Saffron may contribute positively to heart health by maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and prevent accumulation of fat on artery walls due to presence of crocetin6. However, those interested in adding saffron to their pregnancy diet should consult their healthcare provider for personalized advice, as individual health conditions and nutritional needs can vary significantly.
5. May Support Cervical Ripening & Labor Preparation
Traditional medicine posits that saffron may encourage uterine contractions and facilitate cervical preparation for labor through its effects on smooth muscles 7. A randomized clinical trial with 50 full-term pregnant participants indicated that saffron use potentially aids in cervical ripening, although its direct influence on the duration of labor requires more investigation8. However, current evidence is limited and not robust enough to confirm Saffron’s efficacy or safety for labor induction. Always consult your doctor before using saffron during pregnancy, as uterine stimulation can carry risks like preterm labor.
6. Alleviating Morning Sickness
One of the most common discomforts during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester, is morning sickness. The nausea and vomiting associated with this condition can significantly impact daily life. Saffron during pregnancy can offer relief from these symptoms due to its anti-nausea and calming properties. The aromatic compounds in saffron can help soothe the stomach lining and reduce the intensity of nausea. A cup of warm saffron milk, made with just a few threads of saffron, can be a comforting remedy to ease morning sickness.
7. Enhancing Sleep Quality
Pregnancy often brings sleep disturbances, with many women experiencing difficulties in falling or staying asleep. These disruptions can be due to hormonal changes, physical discomfort, or stress and anxiety about the pregnancy and upcoming parenthood. Fortunately, kesar might offer a natural aid for improving quality of sleep .The active compounds in saffron, such as safranal and crocin, may aid relaxation and enhance melatonin production9. A 2021 randomized trial indicated that saffron extract can enhance quality sleep and increase melatonin levels in adults suffering from lack of sleep. However, further research is required to determine its specific effects during pregnancy.
Is saffron safe during all three trimesters of pregnancy?
While saffron offers potential benefits during pregnancy, its safety varies by trimester. The first trimester carries the highest risk, as some studies suggest saffron may weaken the cervix and increase the miscarriage rate 10. A 2014 study observed higher miscarriage rates among female farmers exposed to saffron early in pregnancy, though more research is needed to confirm this link.
During the second and third trimesters, moderate saffron consumption is generally considered safe, but strict moderation is key. Since individual health factors vary, always consult your doctor before incorporating saffron into your diet during pregnancy to assess potential risks and determine a safe dosage.
Dosage of Saffron
When it comes to consumption of Kesar it is strictly advised to take saffron in moderation. The general guideline recommend 1.5 gram of saffron per day. Excessive consumption such as 5 grams per day can be fatal and result in uterine stimulation Activity 11. However before determining the quantity intake of saffron it is best to consult expert advice
Potential Side Effects of Saffron
• Lightheadedness or vertigo
• Migraine-like discomfort
• Excessive sleepiness
• Difficulty falling asleep
• Nausea leading to sickness
• Hypersensitivity responses
Saffron Milk: A Delightful Addition to the healthy Diet of pregnant mothers
Drinking Saffron milk during pregnancy boasts numerous health benefits kesar milk is a delightful addition to a pregnant woman’s diet. To prepare this nourishing drink add a pinch of saffron threads to a warm glass of milk and let it soak for 2-3 minutes. Add crushed almonds and cardamon to elevate the taste.
For those who don’t consume dairy, simply steep a few strands of saffron threads in a cup of warm water for 10-15 minutes. As the water turns sunshine yellow you are ready to enjoy the amazing benefits of this precious golden spice.
Valley Saffron: Buy 100% Pure and Original Saffron from Kashmir
Fake saffron is a common issue now a days as market is flooded with adulterated saffron dyed with colors. Driven by our commitment to deliver 100% pure and high quality saffron we started valley saffron. Valley Saffron offers finest grade of saffron, handpicked from the lush fields of Kashmir. Each delicate saffron thread is carefully harvested, sun dried, and paced in air tight jars to preserve its aroma. At Valley Saffron, you can buy saffron online in various quantities, starting from just one gram of kesar for those who prefer smaller amounts.
