The role of saffron for low mood is being taken seriously as the clinical evidence grows.
A 2026 systematic review and meta-analysis of 34 randomised controlled trials found evidence of improvements on some self-reported measures of depressive and anxiety symptoms, though results were not consistent across all assessment scales.
Saffron contains several naturally occurring compounds, including crocin and crocetin. These compounds have been studied for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, although the relevance of these effects to human health is still being investigated
The evidence for saffron in supporting mood
Over the last twenty years, researchers have published numerous randomised controlled trials comparing saffron supplements with placebos and, in some studies, prescription antidepressants. Many of these studies have reported improvements in mood-related measures following supplementation with approximately 30 mg of standardised saffron extract daily for between six and twelve weeks
Other benefits of saffron
Beyond mood, saffron has also been the subject of research into areas including hormonal health, skin health, sleep, appetite and weight management, although further research is needed.
Researchers are investigating whether saffron may interact with several biological pathways
Saffron may influence several biological pathways simultaneously. Researchers believe saffron may:
1. Support Serotonin Activity
Researchers have proposed that saffron may interact with pathways involved in serotonin signalling, although the precise mechanisms are not fully understood
2. Research into anti-inflammatory effects
Chronic low-grade inflammation has been investigated in relation to mental wellbeing, while laboratory studies indicate that saffron has anti-inflammatory properties.
3. Combat Oxidative Stress
Laboratory research suggests that compounds found in saffron have antioxidant activity, although the extent to which this translates into effects in humans remains under investigation
4. Research into potential neuroprotective effects
Animal and laboratory studies suggest crocin and crocetin may have neuroprotective properties
5. Influence Dopamine and Norepinephrine
Another area of investigation is whether saffron may interact with dopamine and norepinephrine pathways, which are involved in motivation, pleasure, attention and energy levels.
Is Saffron Safe?
Saffron supplements are generally well tolerated when used appropriately, but they may not be suitable for everyone and can interact with medicines so speak to your GP if you:
- Take antidepressants
- Take blood-thinning medication
- Take medication for high blood pressure
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have bipolar disorder or another mental health condition requiring specialist care.
Not all saffron supplements are created equal
Because saffron is expensive to produce, quality can vary considerably.
As a nutritional therapist, I have researched saffron supplements based on factors including:
- Standardized saffron extract
- Third-party quality testing
- Transparent ingredient lists
- Reputable manufacturers
- Products that match the doses used in clinical studies
Why adding saffron to food is not enough
The quantities used in cooking are generally much smaller than the quantities used in many clinical studies, so culinary use cannot necessarily be assumed to provide the same exposure as supplementation.
As research continues to evolve, saffron remains one of the most exciting areas in the emerging field of nutritional psychiatry.
If you’d like to learn more about saffron, nutrition and mood, then please get in touch
Read more here about booking a consultation with me.
Vanessa May is a a BANT registered Nutritional Therapist and ILM Accredited Wellbeing Coach, as well as Holistic Grief Coach and Certified Grief Educator. She has helped hundreds of clients with her holistic approach to health, wellbeing and bereavement. Vanessa specialises in stress, fatigue, low mood, anxiety, hormonal imbalance and grief.
Important: Saffron supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat or prevent depression or any other medical condition. If you’re experiencing persistent low mood, depression, anxiety or other mental-health symptoms, speak to your GP or an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.