Saffron May Improve Mood and Treat Depressive Symptoms

Saffron May Improve Mood and Treat Depressive Symptoms

Saffron is nicknamed the sunshine spice. This is not just due to its distinct color but also because it may help brighten your mood.

In a review of five studies, saffron supplements were significantly more effective than placebos at treating symptoms of mild-to-moderate depression .

Other studies found that taking 30 mg of saffron daily was just as effective as Fluoxetine, Imipramine, and Citalopram — conventional treatments for depression. Additionally, fewer people experienced side effects from saffron than from other treatments .

Both the saffron petals and thread-like stigma appear to be effective against mild-to-moderate depression .

While these findings are promising, longer human studies with more participants are needed before experts can recommend saffron as a treatment for depression.

COMMENT:Saffron may help treat symptoms of mild-to-moderate depression, but more studies are needed before definite recommendations can be made.