Saffron is an herb that numerous studies have shown to offer benefits for beauty and in supporting the treatment of several conditions related to the nervous system, cardiovascular health, and blood circulation. Its compounds, including saponins, tannins, alkaloids, and crocin, help reduce inflammation and oxidative damage in the brain.

These substances also stabilize the nervous system, improve mood, and help prevent depression. A study published in the US National Library of Medicine in 2022 indicated that crocin, crocetin, and flavonoids can also lower blood sugar, enhance insulin effectiveness, and improve insulin resistance in people with diabetes.

You can use saffron to make drinks or prepare dishes to improve your health. However, you should only consume 0,1g (about 50 strands) daily, which amounts to 3g per month, as recommended by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Saffron has been shown to offer many health benefits; only 50 strands should be consumed daily, and it should not be overused. *Dieu Thuan*

Additionally, saffron is a valuable herb, expensive, and easily counterfeited. You should purchase it from reputable sources with clear origin traceability and discontinue use if you experience diarrhea, itching, numbness in limbs, or headaches.

To effectively manage diabetes, you need to balance your entire diet, increase your intake of green vegetables and fruits, and not rely solely on herbs. Daily, ensure adequate hydration, get enough sleep, avoid excessive sweets or salty foods, maintain a relaxed mindset, and follow your doctor's treatment instructions.

People with diabetes are more susceptible to shingles. This post-chickenpox disease is caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV). After recovering from chickenpox, the VZV virus remains dormant in nerve ganglia. When the immune system is weakened due to old age, prolonged stress, immunosuppressant medication use, or chronic illnesses, the virus reactivates and causes shingles.

Diabetes can increase the risk of shingles by 24-38%. While not epidemic, shingles can lead to complications such as skin infections, pneumonia, and an increased risk of stroke and myocardial infarction. A common complication is post-herpetic neuralgia, which can lead to insomnia and exhaustion.

A vaccine for shingles is available, preventing the disease with 97% effectiveness in people aged 50 and older, and 87% effectiveness in immunocompromised individuals aged 18 and older, while also reducing post-herpetic neuralgia and other complications by over 90%. The vaccination schedule consists of two doses administered one to two months apart. You can get vaccinated to prevent this disease, but consult your doctor thoroughly before vaccination.

Doctor Nguyen Van Mac Toan

Medical Manager, VNVC Vaccination System

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