How Much Saffron to Use Per Day?
Saffron is widely known for its incredible health benefits. The spice is often called red gold, and not just because of its price. The benefits stemming from saffron are numerous and invaluable, and it has been used to treat everything from mood disorders to the common cold. Because many believe saffron is a miracle cure-all, it may be tempting to load up on saffron in huge quantities. But more isn’t always better. Aside from being expensive, this powerful spice packs quite a punch and a little goes a long way. So before you start piling it on, let’s figure out how much saffron to use per day to get the most out of this incredible spice.
How Much Saffron to Use Per Day
How is Saffron Measured?
Saffron is usually measured in grams, pinches, or threads. As saffron is by far the most expensive spice per pound, most manufacturers sell their saffron by the gram in carefully measured glass bottles. Luckily, a little goes a long way, and one gram may hold as many as 500 threads. Be careful when purchasing saffron in bulk, as you want to ensure you’re always using the highest quality and freshest saffron possible!
How Much Should I Use in Cooking?
Most recipes call for a pinch of saffron or several threads. A pinch of saffron can be anything from about 20 threads to 50, depending on what you consider a pinch! Saffron can overpower a dish if used in large quantities, so it’s better to start with a smaller pinch and add more as desired. Remember to get the most from your saffron by steeping the threads in warm liquid for at least 15 minutes.
Can I Take Saffron as a Supplement?
Saffron is available as a supplement. It's usually available with approximately 88mg per capsule. Saffron supplements are believed to be safe up to 1.5 grams per day, but research suggests the benefits can be found with as little as 30 mg per day. Generally, your ideal daily dose of saffron should be in the range of 80 to 100 mg to get the most out of its health benefits.
Is It Possible to Use Too Much?
While science is still working on an answer to this, there is some evidence that it may be possible to have too much saffron. Saffron taken in extremely high doses may cause serious side effects, and it is recommended not to consume more than 1.5 grams per day. Luckily, as we explained earlier, a little goes a long way. 1.5 grams of saffron is a LOT, and it would be unlikely to see this quantity used in food or as a supplement. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should discuss any concerns with their doctors before regularly ingesting saffron.
Saffron is incredible, there’s no doubt about it! Saffron may be the world’s most expensive spice, but its delicate, unique taste and intense health benefits make it worth it. Remember when you’re cooking with saffron, a pinch is all you need to make the most of it, both in your recipe, and in your body!
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