• By Carissa Zadwarny March 2, 2020

It seems like every year there’s a new health discovery that takes the wellness world by storm. I’m no physic but I’m going out on a limb here to say that saffron just might be 2020’s ingredient to watch. Upon first read, saffron sounded cool… yet I wasn’t totally convinced. What really drew me in was learning that saffron can help with postpartum depression.

It’s something that affects nearly 1 in 7 women every year. The numbers are debilitating and the long-term effects are even worse for those who suffer. Traditional medicine says anti-depressants are the answer. While this is the solution for some, it’s not the be-all-end-all and it’s comforting to know there are other, more holistic options available.

Nikki Bostwick has been a long-time believer of the incredible natural healing power of saffron and is out to change the game with her wellness powder, Saffron Latte. As a mom and business owner, Nikki has experienced first hand how saffron has directly impacted her life for the better. She spills all the details on why you’ll be hooked from the first sip.

CZ

How did you become aware of saffron and its benefits? How has it helped you personally?

NB

Saffron has been used for centuries in Middle eastern cooking for its taste and its benefits. I am a first generation Iranian American, so growing up my mom would tell me all about the benefits — how it makes you laugh uncontrollably in high quantities. Iranians cook with saffron by grinding it and adding it to hot water to make a potent infusion that they keep on hand in the fridge. I loved it so much I used to go in the fridge and drink it straight out of the bottle.

CZ

What happens in our brains and bodies when we ingest saffron? What are the mental and physical health benefits of saffron?

NB

Saffron instantly works to increase the level of serotonin and dopamine we produce! This is profound because even Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIS) and well known leading brand name anti-depressants still take 6 weeks to kick in.

CZ

How much saffron do you need to take to reap the benefits? Why is a latte an effective way to incorporate saffron into your diet?

NB

The studies have been done on a dose of 30mg per day. This is much higher than you would find in your typical Middle Eastern dish. We formulated the latte as a way to ingest the saffron in large doses more easily, and in the most bioavailable way by pairing it with a fat, so that it’s more easily absorbed by the body. This is a very effective way because like I said, there’s a lot of work that goes into preparing the saffron; from grinding the threads to making the tincture. The saffron latte wellness powder I formulate does all of the work for you, you just need to add hot water or your favorite steamed milk!

CZ

Saffron has been said to have mood-lifting capabilities and to be a great defense against depression. Do you think the spice could be beneficial for new mothers struggling with postpartum depression? How so?

NB

Yes! New moms are struggling with crazy levels of hormones having gone through such a huge transformation. It’s a lot even for moms who don’t struggle with depression. Saffron helps lift your mood and prevent new mamas from going into a deep sadness by keeping spirits lifted through the increase in serotonin and dopamine.

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“Saffron helps lift your mood and prevent new mamas from going into a deep sadness by keeping spirits lifted.”

CZ

Can it be a useful supplement for pregnant or nursing mothers as well?

NB

Yes, saffron has been used during labor to help induction. A study was done that also noted moms who use large doses of saffron during labor are less likely to have a c-section. It’s high in Vitamin A as well so it helps with immunity for nursing mothers. However, all pregnant and nursing mamas should consult their physician before doing anything!

CZ

Did you experience any mental health struggles during/after pregnancy? What did you do to take care of yourself?

NB

I did not, and I truly attribute that to the amount of saffron I was taking. It was when I was formulating the product so you can imagine the levels of saffron I was taking in. One serving of our saffron latte is 150mg, which is 5x the studied dose. We are interested in high doses to get us the instant feel good results we are looking for!

CZ

What is the best piece of advice you received as a new mother?

NB

Take it slow, day by day. I’m all about doing more and I love my job, so I am constantly working. But my number one priority is my son, so if he is having a bad day or just really needs me, I have absolutely no problem canceling everything on my schedule for him. It’s definitely kept me from some important meetings but in the end I feel good about it because I know I was there for him.

CZ

What are some of the best routines or rituals that new mothers can implement to help themselves navigate new motherhood?

NB

I truly believe in the saffron latte as being an important ritual especially for new moms. Another routine I love is going on walks. It’s a special phase in your life that you won’t always be in, so enjoy every moment of it. The time will come where you will be able to finally go on runs and pilates and take all the time you need for yourself, but for now, look for ways where you can get moving while you are spending time with baby! And it’s okay to lay in bed and sleep when the baby naps. That’s really one of the other main ways I was able to stay focused and happy. So my advice is: sleep, saffron latte and gentle exercises!