Saffron is a powerful spice high in antioxidants. It has been linked to health benefits, such as improved mood, libido, as well as reduced PMS symptoms and enhanced weight loss. Best of all, it's generally safe for most people and easy to add to your diet. Saffron extract and its active constituents, crocin and picrocrocin are known to have an overall protective effect against kidney ischemia/reperfusion injury.