Known as ‘the Golden spice’, saffron is an integral part of Indian cuisine.
Adding edible flowers in the right proportion can create colour and flavour.
It is claimed that saffron is therapeutic in nature and an antispasmodic.
Milk is a wholesome food and is a good source of proteins and calcium.
Pregnant women are advised to take milk daily. It is claimed that saffron milk has many health benefits.
Research reveals that all these claims are not true.
Risks at pregnancy
People have been using Saffron since long to make their unborn children fair.
It is usually taken from the fifth month of pregnancy. It is believed that saffron helps the baby remain active in the womb, besides helping with digestion.
It is thought that it purifies blood and alleviates fatigue and exhaustion.
It is also claimed to improve the mood of the brain.
Research has made it possible to find the efficacy of any herbal medicine.
Contrary to popular belief, excess consumption of saffron can be hazardous.
It is estimated that 15% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage.
The medical term for miscarriage is ‘spontaneous abortion,’ which occurs before the 20th week of pregnancy.
Since saffron may cause uterine contraction, there is a possibility of having miscarriage.
There is no scientific study or other evidence to prove that saffron is good during pregnancy. It definitely does not change the skin colour of the unborn.
Skin colour
Skin colour is primarily due to the presence of melanin in the skin.
It ranges from black to white and mainly due to genetics.
The natural skin colour can be darkened by exposing it to sunlight.
Melanin is produced by cells called melanocytes.
Melanin controls the amount of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun that penetrates the skin by absorption. Ultraviolet radiation can assist in the production of vitamin D. Excess exposure can damage health.
Adulterated saffron sold in the market can do more harm than good.
If you are a woman, your relatives may persuade to take saffron milk during pregnancy.
Please consult your GP, who knows your health condition. Even if your doctor approves, it is advisable to use it in moderation.
Please do not use more than 2-4 strands of good quality saffron in a glass of milk.
Thilliar Varnakulasingham has been a regular Indian Newslink columnist. He is versatile on several aspects of health and wellbeing.
