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What is Kesar?
Kesar or Saffron is a spice derived from a flower known as Crocus Sativus. It is usually found in Mediterranean regions of the world. Kesar is used as a seasoning and coloring agent in food. However, it has a blend of aroma that is hard to distinguish; floral and honey-like smell.
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Nutritional Characteristics of Kesar
- Contains vitamins (A, C, B-6)
- Rich in minerals (manganese, magnesium, potassium, etc.)
- Contains fatty acids like Omega-6 and Omega-3
- Has anti-oxidant properties
- Has antispasmodic properties
- Has antidepressant properties
- Has anti-inflammatory properties
- Natural aphrodisiac
Health Benefits of Kesar
Aids in Arthritis
Crocetin in kesar enhances cerebral oxygenation that helps in the treatment of arthritis. Kesar can be effective in relieving gout. Dr. S.K. Kurumboor, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha states that crocetin compound in kesar improves the diffusion of oxygen through body cells.
Improves Vision
Kesar prevents vision loss and retinal degeneration and improves retinal function. According to Dr. A. Minnella, Journal of Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, kesar or saffron aids in macular degeneration. You can use threads or powdered form of kesar in your savory or sweet dishes.
Fights Cancer-Causing Cells
Crocetin compound in kesar contributes to anti-cancer properties as it inhibits the growth of an enzyme that is found active in cancer cells. According to Prasan R. Bhandari, SDM College of Medical Sciences & Hospital, Karnataka, kesar acts as an anti-cancer drug. It helps fight skin cancer, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer and many more.
Boosts Brain Health
Kesar is a proven spice that enhances brain health by treating learning and memory impairments. Crocetin and ethanolic compounds in kesar also acts as an anti-depressant agent. Daily consumption of 30 mg of kesar improves the moods of a person and helps treat insomnia.
Improves Heart Health
Kesar has anti-oxidant properties that help maintain heart arteries and blood vessels. It contains a vitamin called Riboflavin which is crucial in maintaining a healthy heart. Kesar also lowers blood pressure that reduces the risks of heart attacks.
Other Health Benefits of Kesar
- Keeps digestive system healthy
- Relieves insect bites
- Enhances liver health
- Offers a relief to menstrual cramps
- Heals deep wounds
- Boosts immunity
- Treats asthma
How to Use Kesar for Health Benefits?
Kesar can be used in powdered form or strands in any dish to add aroma and flavor. You can use kesar asa garnish to make your dish look presentable.
- Add sugar to grind the strands of kesar easily
- Make liquid kesar by adding 3–5 teaspoons of boiling water. You can store it for a week to be used when needed
Recommended dosage: Add 30 mg of powdered kesar or 10–12 strands of kesar to any dish.
Caution: The amount of kesar varies with quantity and type of dish.
Benefits of Kesar for Skin
Makes Your Skin Radiant
Kesar has anti-inflammatory properties that keep impurities away from your skin, making it soft and supple. You can mix a pinch (or 1 teaspoon) of powdered or threads (2–3 strands) of kesar in your face pack or face mask to bring back the lost radiance of your skin.
Lightens Your Skin
Kesar is a perfect remedy that helps lighten your skin complexion. You can soak 2–3 strands of kesar in milk for two hours. Apply this on your face and wash it thoroughly. Regular application of this face pack brings back the lost natural glow to your skin.
Treats Acne and Blemishes
The anti-fungal properties of kesar treat acne breakouts, blemishes and blackheads from your skin. You can make a paste with basil leaves and 10–12 strands of kesar. Apply it on your face or affected areas and wash it off after 10–15 minutes.
Treats Dull and Dry Skin
Kesar treats your dull and dry skin, keeping your skin moisturized as well as free from cracks caused due to dryness. Make a paste of lemon and kesar and apply it on a routine (twice a week) on your skin to deep clean and moisturize your skin.
How to Use Kesar for Skin
- Wash your face with warm water
- Deep clean your face with a cleanser
- Pat your face dry
- Mix kesar in milk or lemon juice to form a paste
- Apply the paste to your skin
- Leave it for 10–15 minutes
- Wash face with cold water
- Pat dry with towel
Recommended dosage: 30 mg of powdered kesar or 10–12 strands of kesar to make a fine paste.
Benefits of Kesar for Hair
Prevents Hair Loss
Kesar or saffron has anti-oxidant properties that repair hair follicles and strengthens roots of your hair. Kesar promotes hair growth and prevents hair loss. Soak a few strands of saffron in liquorice and milk. Apply this mixture on your scalp for 10–15 minutes and rinse your hair thoroughly.
Treats Dandruff
The anti-inflammatory properties of kesar remove dandruff from your scalp. You can mix 3–4 strands of kesar in any carrier oil and apply it on your scalp. Leave it overnight and shampoo your hair the next morning.
How to Use Kesar for Hair
- Dampen your scalp with water
- Mix kesar (3–4 strands) in your carrier oil (or milk-liquorice paste)
- Apply it on your scalp
- Leave it overnight or for few minutes
- Shampoo your hair thoroughly
Recommended dosage: 30 mg of powdered kesar or 3–4 strands of kesar to make a hair mask.
Side Effects and Precautions
Kesar is 100% natural and can be used as an oral medicine up to 6 weeks. However, high doses of kesar can cause poisoning and pale appearance of your skin.
People suffering from bipolar disorder, low blood pressure, critical heart conditions and breast-feeding mothers should avoid any intake of kesar. Pregnant ladies can consume a small amount of kesar.
Where to Buy Kesar?
Kesar has many benefits for skin, hair and health. Use of kesar can help treat many diseases and get rid of several health issues. You can buy 100% pure kesar and kesar products from:
Best Brands that Sell Kesar
- Baby Brand Saffron
- Shalimar Brand Saffron
