Saffron, also called the "red gold spice," is easily found in almost every Indian kitchen. From adding flavour to your favourite biryani to giving colour to your sweet dishes like kheer, saffron (kesar) has been in use for time immemorial. But do you know? Saffron has amazing medicinal properties that offer incredible health benefits to pregnant women. Curious to know its health benefits? Read on to learn more! 

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7 Benefits of Saffron During Pregnancy

1. Improves Digestion

Pregnant women often have a slower metabolism, which causes their digestive system to slow down. According to studies, saffron consumed during pregnancy plays an essential role in the treatment of numerous digestive system diseases. Saffron has been shown to increase blood flow in the arteries of the stomach, which aids digestion. 

2. Reduce Mood Swings

We all know that mood swings are one of the most prevalent symptoms of pregnancy. Saffron milk during pregnancy may help alleviate mood swings and prevent postpartum depression, according to research. Saffron serves as an antidepressant by boosting serotonin (a chemical that elevates mood) levels in the brain.

3. Improves Sleep Quality

A sound night's sleep is something that almost all pregnant women desire. Because of discomfort and cramps, pregnant women find it difficult to sleep well as their pregnancy advances. Saffron (kesar) is not only an excellent antioxidant, but it is also a herbal sedative that helps reduce cramps and relax you, allowing you to get a good night's sleep. 

4. Reduce the Risk of Heart Diseases

Saffron contains antioxidants, flavonoids, and potassium, which help lower the risk of heart disease. Crocetin, found in saffron, lowers bad cholesterol levels and prevents fat and cholesterol buildup in and on the arterial walls of the heart. 

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5. Manages Blood Pressure

Pregnant women's heart rates and blood pressure levels fluctuate frequently. Saffron use throughout pregnancy can help in managing blood pressure as kesar is rich in antioxidants like crocin, picrocrocin, safranal, and crocetin. Adding 3 to 4 strands of Kashmiri saffron to milk can help pregnant women decrease their blood pressure. Saffron also relaxes muscles and stimulates the uterus.

6. Reduce Hairfall

Many pregnant women have hair loss as a result of hormonal imbalances. Applying a paste of saffron, milk, and licorice helps prevent hair loss during pregnancy and stimulate hair growth, according to old wisdom. 

7. Relieve muscular cramps

In the third trimester, many women complain of leg and abdominal cramps, as well as joint pain. Saffron, which is known for anti-spasmodic and antinociceptive qualities, can help relieve excessive muscle cramps and relax joints, thereby lowering muscular discomfort during pregnancy.

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When Can a Woman Have Saffron Milk During Pregnancy?

Saffron should be avoided during the first trimester. Ayurveda recommends consuming saffron only during the fourth month of pregnancy, when you begin to feel the baby move in your womb. However, you should be aware that, till now, it has not been scientifically confirmed that consumption of kesar milk during pregnancy will influence the complexion of a new born infant. A child's skin colour is genetically established.

Conclusion

Saffron during pregnancy is highly recommended for pregnant women because of its amazing health benefits. However, you must consume kesar in moderation to avoid complications and health issues like nausea, anxiety, dry mouth, and numbness. You must consult your gynaecologist before consuming kesar during pregnancy. You can order premium-quality Kashmiri kesar online from Healthy Master.

Have a happy and safe pregnancy!!

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