Aspiring Nirvana

Saffron: Facts, Health Benefits, Consumption and Side Effects

Introduction

Saffron is an orange colored spice made from dried stigmas of flower called Crocus.

It has been consumed and traded for hundreds of years by ancient civilizations. It is used to flavor and color food, fabric dye, perfume, in traditional medicine and for religious purposes in India.

Iran is currently the major producer of saffron in the world. Saffron is also the world’s most expensive spice.

Potential Health Benefits of Saffron

Treatment of depression and anxiety
Reduce inflammation and headache
Purify kidney and bladder
Keep skin healthy
Treat external wounds

Options to Consume Saffron

Flavor in food including rice and biryani
Flavor in drinks and liquors
Ingredient in cake and breads
Flavor in fish and seafood

Caution

Some people have observed headache, nausea and diarrhea after long usage of Saffron. Consult with your doctor before including it in your diet.

Final Verdict

Saffron has many health benefits, but like anything else, use it as part of a holistic healthy lifestyle that includes healthy diet, proper exercise and regular doctor visit

We hope the information in this post will be helpful in your journey of aspiring nirvana!

What is a 403(b) Plan?

A 403b is a retirement plan offered by non-profit companies in which the employees contribute part of their salary with employers usually offering matching contribution.

Introduction

A 403(b) is a retirement plan offered by non-profit companies to their employees. Employees can contribute part of their salary to the plan, invest in various investing options, and let it grow tax-free until withdrawal time. Contributions to 403(b) are tax-free (up to an annual limit) which will lower your taxes. On top of that, most companies provide matching contribution.

403(b) plans are usually available for public schools, government offices, healthcare agencies, and religious organizations.

Difference between 403(b) plan and 401(k) plan

For all practical purposes a 403(b) plan is very similar to a 401(k) plan. You can invest in a basket of mutual funds or bonds. However, there are some unique differences between the two as noted below:

Benefits of 403(b) over 401(k)

Shorter vesting periods
Option for additional contributions after 15 years of service

Drawbacks of 403(b) over 401(k)

Less choices of investment options
Less protection from creditors
Annuities and other insurance products may not be optimal choices for some

Final Verdict

For salaried people working in non-profit companies, contributing money to 403(b) account is one of the best way to save for retirement, get free-money from employers, reduce taxes and comfortably save for retirement.

The key is to start early, contribute regularly and let your money grow over time!

We hope the information in this post will be helpful in your journey of aspiring nirvana!

Coriander: Facts, Health Benefits, Consumption and Side Effects

If you aspire to consume a spice that adds distinct flavor to your meals as well as offers excellent health benefits, then you must try coriander.

Coriander is a feathery plant of parsley family and is cultivated mainly in Asia and Europe. It is also known as cilantro or parsley. Both its seed as well as leaves (also known as cilantro) are used as spice and herb in many parts of the world.

Fresh Coriander leaves can lose their aroma quickly and thus must be kept wet or in cold storage.

Potential Health Benefits of Coriander

It is good source of fiber
It is believed to be a good source of anti-oxidant
It may help prevent inflammation
It may help skin from sun exposure damage

Options to Consume Coriander

Add flavor to salad, soup and curries
Complement beverages
Pair with pesto, avocado and vegetable dips
Works well with fish, meat and egg dishes

Tip: For best flavor, add Cilantro leaves at the end of the cooking.

Caution

Some people have observed food allergy after consuming coriander. Some do not like its strong taste and may perceive it taste as soapy. Consult with your doctor before including it in your diet.

Final Verdict

Coriander has many health benefits, but like anything else, use it as part of a holistic healthy lifestyle that includes healthy diet, proper exercise and regular doctor visit.