‘Milegi dulhan wali raunak': Bhagyashree recommends saffron (kesar) water to combat skin dullness

Indian Express

27-05-2025

Actor Bhagyashree, known for sharing her best-kept fitness, diet and beauty secrets with her followers on social media, recently shared a skincare tip that has caught people's attention.
In a recent video posted on Instagram, she said, 'Dust aur pollution ki wajah se agar aapki skin sad si lagg rahi hai, toh aapko zaroori hai andar ki radiance ki (If your skin looks dull due to dust and pollution, you need inner radiance).'
She added, 'Agle 15 dinn ke liye, khaali pet, yeh zaroor pee lijiye — kesar ka paani. Kesar skin brighten ke saath saath, pigmentation ko reduce karta hai aur aapke skin texture ko collagen boost deta hai, jisse aapke chehre ko milegi dulhan wali raunak (For the next 15 days, make sure to drink saffron water on an empty stomach. Saffron not only brightens the skin but also reduces pigmentation and boosts collagen, giving your face a bridal glow).'
According to her, consuming 10-15 strands of kesar (saffron) in lukewarm water every morning on an empty stomach can help prevent skin dullness caused by pollution and dust.
Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietician and certified diabetes educator, told indianexpress.com, 'Saffron contains potent antioxidants like safranal, which may help combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress associated with UV exposure, potentially improving skin health. Saffron can inhibit melanin production and promote collagen synthesis, the scientific evidence supporting its oral consumption for skin protection against pollution remains limited.'
Furthermore, Malhotra added that high-quality saffron is expensive and excessive consumption can lead to adverse reactions. While saffron may enhance skin brightness and hydration, it should not replace established skincare practices like sunscreen use and a balanced diet.
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Aside from skin health, Malhotra said that saffron has numerous nutritional benefits because of its 'high concentration of antioxidants and bioactive compounds' such as safranal, and kaempferol. Antioxidants neutralise free radicals in the body and help to decrease oxidative stress that contributes to several chronic diseases.
Khushboo Jain Tibrewala, nutritionist and diabetes educator, and the founder of The Health Pantry, also noted, 'Saffron is one of those rare ingredients that is beneficial for internal health as well as for vanity. It also boosts fat loss in the body. Saffron is anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting, antioxidant-rich and improves PMS symptoms and helps regularise periods in women with PCOS.'
'Saffron may improve eye health as its carotenoids can protect against macular degeneration. Saffron may also improve sleep and enhance libido when used regularly in meals. Given its cost and potency, saffron should be used judiciously, even with these significant health benefits beyond skin health,' Malhotra mentioned.
Malhotra informed, 'Saffron's recommended daily intake for safety is ≤1.5 grams. At culinary amounts (e.g., a few strands), it is generally safe with minimal side effects. However, exceeding 5 grams daily risks toxicity, including nausea, dizziness, headaches, and gastrointestinal distress. Severe overconsumption (10–20 g) may cause seizures, liver/kidney damage, or even fatality.'
She continued, 'Pregnant individuals should strictly avoid doses ≥5 g due to uterine stimulation and miscarriage risks. While saffron's antioxidants (safranal) offer health benefits, high supplemental doses can trigger allergic reactions, mood swings, or bleeding complications in those on blood thinners. Moderate culinary use is safe, but prioritise reputable sources to avoid adulteration.'
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.