Saffron Lemonade
Makes 2 cups
Preparation
Soak 30 saffron strands in 1 tablespoon hot water for 10 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 30 saffron strands, soaked
- 1/8 teaspoon black salt
- 1 teaspoon (sabja) Basil seeds
- 3 tablespoons jaggery powder
Method
- Combine all the ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
- Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure that there are no remaining lumps of basil seeds.
- Refrigerate for 1 hour, and serve cold.
Benefits
The juice preparation which includes saffron, lemon juice, black salt, basil seeds, and jaggery powder, offers several potential health benefits:
- Saffron Benefits:
- Antioxidant Properties: Saffron is rich in antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
- Mood Enhancement: Some studies suggest that saffron may have mood-improving properties and could potentially help with conditions like depression.
- Digestive Health: Saffron may contribute to digestive health and alleviate symptoms like bloating.
- Lemon Juice Benefits:
- Vitamin C: Lemon juice is a good source of vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system and skin.
- Alkalizing Properties: Despite being acidic in nature, lemon juice has an alkalizing effect on the body, which can help balance pH levels.
- Black Salt Benefits:
- Minerals: Black salt contains trace minerals that are beneficial for health, such as iron and sulfur.
- Digestive Aid: Black salt is often used as a digestive aid and can help relieve gas and bloating.
- Basil Seeds (Sabja) Benefits:
- Fiber Content: Basil seeds are rich in fiber, promoting digestive health and aiding in bowel regularity.
- Hydration: When soaked, basil seeds develop a gelatinous coating, which can help keep the body hydrated.
- Jaggery Powder Benefits:
- Iron Content: Jaggery is a good source of iron, which is essential for preventing iron deficiency anemia.
- Natural Sweetener: Jaggery is a healthier alternative to refined sugar as it is unprocessed and contains some vitamins and minerals.
- Hydration:
- The overall combination of ingredients in this juice, along with the water content, contributes to hydration, which is crucial for overall health.
- Refreshing and Cooling:
- The cold serving temperature and the combination of lemon and saffron can make this juice refreshing and provide a cooling effect, especially in warm weather.
- Low-Calorie Option:
- Depending on the quantity of jaggery used, this juice can be a relatively low-calorie beverage compared to sugary drinks.
Remember that individual reactions to certain ingredients may vary, and it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist, especially if you have specific health concerns or conditions. Additionally, moderation is key, as excessive consumption of any ingredient may have adverse effects.
November 13, 2023
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