Saffron

Polyphenols are beneficial compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acid. They help improve digestion, blood sugar levels, brain and heart function and boost the immune system. They are abundant in various plants and high levels are found in berries, nuts, vegetables and beans.

Saffron, a powerful polyphenol, is possibly the most expensive spice as it uses a labour intensive harvesting method.
Saffron is an impressive antioxidant; it helps reduce inflammation, has anti-depressive effects, improves brain function, memory, mood, libido, and calms hyperactivity in children. In test tube studies, saffron has been shown to have cancer fighting properties, especially colon cancer.

In Chinese Medicine, saffron is seen as reducing PMS symptoms, stimulating Liver Qi, and removing stagnation.
Recent studies also show that saffron improves age related macular degeneration.

Best to buy saffron threads rather than powdered; crush and soak 20-30 mins in hot (not boiling) water, then add to your cooking.
If you want to buy saffron supplements, make sure to get a standardised, pure and clean product. Naked Pharmacy seems like a good choice. 30mg a day to be taken in the morning with food; do not exceed 1g and not recommended for pregnancy/lactating.

I’ve never taken saffron but the latest research showing its benefits for the eyes..makes it very tempting.

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