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Benefits of Saffron during Pregnancy

The king of spices, Saffron or Kesar also well known as 'Zafran', ‘Koung’ or ‘Kumkumapoovu’ has its own importance in the traditional spices so much so that it is also used as a medical supplement.

Saffron is often recommended by elderly women to expecting mothers owing to its therapeutic properties like aiding digestion and improving the appetite of the pregnant woman. But like any other herb, there needs to be moderation in the consumption of Saffron. One may find a lot of myths associated with the consumption of Kesar during pregnancy. Let’s bust a few of them and know Saffron better.

Saffron during pregnancy

What is Saffron?

Saffron is the dried stigma of the Crocus Sativus flower, i.e. the thread-like part at the centre of the flower which contains pollen. A single flower contains only three strands of saffron. Obtaining saffron involves a great deal of human labor, thus making it one of the most popular and expensive herbs across the globe.

This golden herb, in India, is produced in the valleys of Kashmir and has always been in high demand. It is often regarded as the ‘king of spices’ and commands a huge price. In India, it's highly believed that the consumption of saffron during pregnancy is good.

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Uses of Saffron

From Biryani, kheer, and other sweets to beauty creams, saffron has a diverse use. Apart from aiding digestion, saffron is also found effective for women to get relief from menstrual discomfort and Premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

Even though we lack medical evidence that saffron helps in male infertility, asthma, erectile dysfunction, cancer baldness, it is recommended in these cases. People who have used saffron claim its efficacy and benefits.

Must Read : Foods to be included/excluded during pregnancy

Saffron during Pregnancy

Have enough saffron. It will make your baby fairer.” You may have heard this during your pregnancy. If you have wondered if it is really true, it is not, as there is no evidence that consuming kesar during pregnancy results in a fairer baby. The fact is that the baby’s complexion is purely genetic and not influenced by diet. 

While small quantities of saffron are safe, overuse can cause

  • Uterine contractions
  • Dizziness
  • Miscarriages are rare cases. 

When used correctly, it has some real benefits. The benefits of saffron milk during pregnancy include -

  • Muscle relaxation
  • Better digestion
  • Internal healing
  • Added calcium from milk. 

Must Read : Pregnancy Nutrition: Role of Eating Right

Benefits of Saffron During Pregnancy

Combats Mood Swings

The hormonal surges during pregnancy can make you cranky and impulsive. Saffron acts as an antidepressant in those gloomy days by boosting blood flow to your brain, producing serotonin, a hormone that will raise your spirit. 

Reducing Blood Pressure

Adding 3 to 4 strands of saffron in milk can help you reduce blood pressure in pregnant women. Saffron also relaxes the muscles and acts as a uterine stimulant.

Aids Digestion

Constipation, gas and bloating are a few of the common complaints during the gestation period. Saffron promotes blood flow to the digestive system and increases metabolism.

Cures Morning Sickness

Saffron tea can help you fight nausea and dizziness during pregnancy.

Benefits of Saffron During Pregnancy

Combats Anemia

Most women during pregnancy are anaemic. Regular intake of saffron in the food will boost haemoglobin in the blood curing your anaemia.

Saves you against Heart Diseases

Packed with high antioxidants, potassium, and crocetin contents, saffron protects you and your baby’s heart by reducing cholesterol and triglycerides. 

Promotes Sleep

A warm cup of saffron milk at night can put you to a peaceful goodnight’s sleep. 

Fights Allergies

Saffron-infused milk holds the power to soothe coughs, asthma, allergies and relieve congestion. Applying the paste of sandalwood and saffron is said to bring down a fever.

Beats the Zits

Saffron purifies the blood and helps you combat hormonal imbalance, pimples and skin darkness.

Baby Movement

Expecting moms can feel their baby move the moment she has a glass of saffron and milk. You can feel the baby movement as the body heat increases with saffron. However, avoid large quantities of saffron and note that baby movements can be felt only after months.

With all these benefits, it’s highly recommended that you saffron to your diet during pregnancy but in moderation.

Is Saffron Safe during Pregnancy?

In Indian cuisine, saffron is a commonly used spice as it has many essential nutrients. It is a great source of iron and prevents anaemia. It also contains Vitamin A and C in good amounts, along with antioxidants that protect the body from free radicals and oxidative stress.. But is Kesar for pregnancy safe? Read below to know.  

First Trimester

Existing research and studies have highlighted the side effects of consuming saffron during the first trimester. The reports indicate a higher rate of miscarriage among women who are exposed to it in the first trimester. Additionally, Ayurvedic practitioners also advise pregnant women to avoid it during the first three months of pregnancy. Taking these recommendations and findings into consideration, expectant mothers should be cautious and consult their healthcare providers before adding saffron to their diet during the initial phase of pregnancy.  

Second Trimester

There are many potential benefits of saffron milk during pregnancy, especially in the second trimester when consumed in recommended doses. However, seek guidance from your healthcare provider before adding it to the pregnancy diet, as there is a need for more research on consumption during this phase. By consulting them, you ensure that you take the appropriate dosage and it is safe for you, based on your health condition, as the health of the mother and baby is important. By seeking the advice of experts, you get insights about the potential risks of kesar for pregnancy and its suitability during the second trimester. 

Third Trimester

Benefits of saffron milk during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, include labour induction and cervical ripening. Many women have muscle cramps in the abdomen and legs, along with joint pain. The antinociceptive and anti-spasmodic properties of saffron alleviate muscle pain, relax joints, relieve muscle contractions and other discomfort. However, expectant women should consult their doctor before adding kesar for pregnancy to ensure appropriateness and safety. 

Can Saffron Change My Baby’s Skin Tone?

One of the purported benefits of saffron milk during pregnancy is that it makes the baby’s skin tone lighter. This belief exists in India and a few other cultures. However, there is no scientific evidence that consuming Kesar milk during pregnancy has this effect. 

Be assured that the baby will be born beautiful, whether you drink saffron milk during pregnancy or not.   

Side Effects of Saffron during Pregnancy

While there are many benefits of saffron milk during pregnancy, understanding its side effects and taking precautions helps in safe usage. Some expectant women are sensitive to saffron and may have symptoms of - 

  • Anxiety
  • Parched mouth
  • Nausea
  • Bleeding nose
  • Numbness in the lips and upper eyelids

However, there is no evidence that it happens only because of saffron. It may or may not happen, but being aware of these symptoms is helpful. 

Can Large Amounts of Saffron Cause Miscarriage? 

Exercising caution when using Kesar for pregnancy is recommended. Some research indicates that excessive saffron consumption increases miscarriage risks. A study indicates that consuming more than 5 g of saffron per day may stimulate your uterus and hence should be avoided. Consulting your healthcare provider before drinking saffron milk is recommended..  

How to Prepare Saffron Milk 

Saffron milk is a milk infused with saffron. It is prepared by soaking 2 to 3 strands of saffron in milk. This is then sweetened or flavoured with silvered or crushed almonds or cardamom and consumed warm or hot. Elders in Indian culture recommend Kesar for pregnancy. However, as there are some side effects, it is best to drink it after your first trimester, after consulting your doctor. 

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FAQ

When to start eating saffron during pregnancy?

Many believe it is perfectly safe to consume a few strands of saffron a day from the first trimester itself. However, to be cautious, it is recommended to start consuming saffron in moderation, only from the second trimester. Ensure you choose high-quality saffron and don’t overconsume it.

How many saffron strands per day during pregnancy?

It is recommended to limit saffron consumption to 3 or a maximum of 5 strands a day during pregnancy. Though it has its set of benefits to offer during pregnancy, overconsumption can lead to various complications.

Which type of saffron is best for pregnant ladies?

Always opt for the high-quality, clean saffron that is free of any chemicals or food colouring. Choose a brand that offers 100% pure high-grade saffron and consume it only after getting your doctor’s approval.

Does saffron increase breast milk?

For many generations, women have believed saffron helps with lactation. However, there is no scientific study or proof to back up this claim. Saffron contains components that can increase the secretion and improve the quality of breast milk.

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