Saffron are the dried threads from the Crocus Sativus flower and is typically used to colour food and add a delicate taste to it.⠀
⠀
A new study now shows that it may also have a positive impact on asthma. ⠀
⠀
It is estimated that approximately 300 million people suffer from asthma worldwide, and numbers are rising. Most of them respond well to the medication with inhaled steroids. And also to long-term uptake of saffron. ⠀
⠀
The study was published in the «Respiratory Research» Journal. ⠀
⠀
Saffron is an antioxidant, relaxes muscles and has anti-inflammatory characteristics. These effects are used in traditional medicine to treat heart diseases, depression, stress and sleep disturbances. These same effects may also help in asthma. ⠀
⠀
In the study with 80 light to medium severe asthmatics, saffron reduced their symptoms: they were less short of breath, required fewer of their asthma medications, slept better and were generally fitter. Additionally, their blood pressure levels and their cholesterol levels improved. ⠀
⠀
It seems that saffron, 100 mg taken daily over a period of eight weeks, is an effective and safe option to improve the health of asthma patients.⠀
⠀
Even though little is known about the longterm effect of saffron, the authors write that in healthy patients dosages of up to 400mg saffron per day are safe. ⠀
