31 amazing benefits of saffron for skin, hair and health (part 2)
Saffron (Crocus sativus) is one of the world’s most prized spices, valued for centuries in cooking and in traditional medicine. This is Part 2 of our guide to the health benefits of saffron; if you missed the first ten, read Part 1 of the 31 benefits of saffron first. Below, benefits 11 to 31 look at how saffron’s antioxidants, vitamins and minerals may support skin, digestion, mood and general wellbeing. These are traditional uses and early research findings rather than proven medical treatments, so talk to your doctor before using saffron to manage any health condition.
The health benefits of saffron: numbers 11 to 31
11. Saffron and antioxidants: Saffron contains natural compounds that act as antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals. A diet rich in antioxidants is generally associated with better overall health.
12. Saffron in traditional remedies: Saffron has a long history of use in traditional medicine, where it has been taken to help with complaints such as abdominal cramps and muscle spasms. These are traditional uses rather than proven medical treatments.
13. Saffron and digestion: Saffron is traditionally used as a digestive aid. In some traditions, a small amount of saffron steeped in warm water is taken to help settle the stomach.
14. Saffron’s nutrients: Saffron provides small amounts of minerals such as potassium and magnesium, which the body needs for normal cell and tissue function.
15. Saffron and iron: Saffron contains a little iron, the mineral the body uses to make hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells.
16. Saffron’s minerals: Saffron contains trace minerals including copper, potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, magnesium and selenium, which contribute to a balanced diet.
17. Saffron for a brighter complexion: Soaking a few saffron threads in water for 20 to 30 minutes creates an infusion that some people apply to the skin in the belief that it brightens the complexion.
18. Saffron and pain: Since ancient times, saffron has been used traditionally to ease discomfort. Some people take it as a tea or mixed with milk to help with menstrual cramps, though evidence is limited.
19. Saffron for the mouth and gums: A traditional home remedy is to massage the gums with a paste of saffron and honey, which is thought to soothe soreness.
20. Saffron and vitamin B2: Saffron contains riboflavin (vitamin B2), a nutrient that supports healthy skin and lips. Getting enough riboflavin in your overall diet helps prevent problems such as cracked lips and sore mouth corners.
21. Saffron as a natural relaxant: Saffron contains a compound called safranal, which some studies suggest may have a mild calming effect on the nervous system.
22. Saffron as a warm drink: A warm saffron drink is a traditional comfort remedy during colds and coughs. It will not cure an infection, but many people find warm, soothing drinks pleasant when feeling under the weather.
23. Saffron and vitamin C: Saffron provides some vitamin C, a nutrient that helps support normal immune function as part of a balanced diet.
24. Saffron as a pick-me-up: Thanks to its distinctive flavor and aroma, saffron is a popular addition to many recipes, and a warm saffron drink is often enjoyed as a refreshing lift.
25. Nutritional value of saffron: Per 28 grams (about 1 ounce), saffron provides roughly 87 calories, 18 g of carbohydrates, 3 g of protein and 1 g of fiber — though in cooking it is used only in tiny pinches, so a typical serving adds very few calories.
26. Saffron and healthy aging: The antioxidants in saffron may help protect cells from oxidative stress, which is one of the factors linked to the natural aging of muscles and tissues.
27. Saffron and male fertility: Saffron has a traditional reputation as an aphrodisiac, and some small studies have looked at its effect on male fertility. The research is still preliminary, so saffron should not be relied on as a treatment for fertility concerns.
28. Saffron and mood: Saffron has been studied in relation to mood, and some early clinical research suggests it may be associated with improvements in low mood. These findings are preliminary, and saffron is not a substitute for professional mental-health care.
29. Saffron and menstruation: Saffron has traditionally been used to help ease menstrual discomfort. Anyone with heavy or irregular periods should see a doctor rather than rely on home remedies.
30. Saffron and joint health: In Ayurvedic tradition, saffron has long been included in remedies for joint discomfort such as osteoarthritis, though rigorous human clinical trials are still limited — it is a traditional remedy, not a doctor-prescribed treatment. Saffron is also traditionally used to help ease breathing in mild asthma, but anyone with a respiratory or joint condition should check with their doctor before trying it.
31. Saffron and pregnancy: In some cultural traditions, saffron milk has been consumed during pregnancy in the belief that it eases nausea and supports mood. Safety and efficacy evidence for saffron specifically during pregnancy is limited and mixed, so pregnant individuals should consult their physician before using saffron in any form, including saffron milk. (Alshdefat A et al. J Evid Based Integr Med. 2026;31:2515690X261455162.)
