By: Dr. Riffat Sadiq, CEO of WNY Medical, PC, Channel Creator
Saffron is a vibrant and unique spice that comes from the Crocus flower. It can be quite expensive, but this is only because of all the intensive harvesting that comes with gathering the spice. The benefits are worth the process, however, because saffron contains calcium, potassium, sodium, and protein and has no calories. It is also extremely important because of its antioxidant properties that can reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s in older age.
Saffron can serve as an anti-depressant as well, because it comes from the Crocus flower, and this is known to have elements to positively change people’s mood. Saffron has been documented to naturally increase dopamine levels, without altering other brain hormone levels. It is advised to have tea with saffron for a quick pick-me-up when you’re feeling down!
A lot of cosmetic products started to include saffron as an ingredient because it can reduce pigmentation and make the user's skin look a lot clearer as well as appear to be younger. These cosmetic products can then also help with acne, help with scar tissue, and reduce inflammation.
The saffron spice has a variety of plant compounds packed inside, which then serve as antioxidants for the body when consumed. The two most notable antioxidants saffron contains are crocin and crocetin. These two antioxidants alone have been known to aid with weight loss, improve your memory, and protect your brain cells from any potential damage.
With saffron, moderation is important because too much of it can lead to irregular heartbeats better known as palpitation. This is why it is advised for pregnant women to not consume saffron, and it is best to consult a doctor if you are experiencing any unusual symptoms.
Cloves are a small aromatic herb that has been used for years in food and medicine. They are known for their Vitamin A and K benefits, and the benefits that they have for our skin. Cloves have built-in anti-inflammatory properties that can get rid of scar tissue on the face, and the dark circles that can form around one’s eyes.
To get the most out of the skin benefits that cloves can provide, you can add lemon juice and honey to your choice of clove oil or powder and make a paste for a face mask. This can be applied once a month or every other week for a natural healer for your skin!
The benefits don’t just stop there! Because cloves provide manganese, which is a mineral that can help regulate your blood sugar, this simple ingredient can help with so much more. By putting a few cloves in your tea, you can experience other great health benefits such as weight loss, help regulate high cholesterol and help with diabetes.
This spice can be a great relief to stomach pains and digestive issues as well. Because of its high fiber count, it can help relax the stomach lining when dealing with nausea and can relieve gas and vomiting issues.
Cloves can also contribute to bettering your mental health, with all the natural effects they have on weight loss and clearer skin, it will also naturally help you feel good about yourself and put you in a better mental state.
However, it is important to note that just like anything else, moderation is key! About 3-6 cloves a day is a good way to start, but too much can lead to an upset stomach, and it is important to ensure there is no allergy before trying.
Dr. Riffat Sadiq: Restoring Self Want more tips on improving your wellness and restoring yourself? Watch videos on YouTube, DrRSMD.