How Saffron Bridges the Gaps in Mental Health

Saffron has been used for centuries in Asian medicine to treat a wide range of health problems - including inflammation, depressive symptoms, and menstrual disorders.¹ In ancient Persia, saffron threads were scattered on beds, infused in bath water, and mixed into hot tea to cure melancholy.² 

A systematic review of multiple clinical trials highlighted the significant potential for saffron as a natural treatment for mood disorders.³ Saffron stigmas are naturally rich in four major bioactive compounds that have an antioxidant effect on the body⁴, including:

• Crocin 

• Crocetin 

• Picrocrocin 

• Safranal 

Research has revealed that saffron impacts both mood and memory, having a positive effect on the mind.^1,5 Here’s how saffron can give your brain a helping hand. 

How does saffron help the brain? 

1. Mood

Saffron can boost your mood. And it’s not just the sunny yellow color that will make you feel happier. A wide range of studies have found saffron can improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression, and anxiety.⁶ 

Clinical trials revealed saffron has similar antidepressant effects to two major antidepressant medications - fluoxetine and imipramine - when taken at a dose of 30 mg/ day for at least 6 weeks in participants with major depressive disorder.⁷

In a study of healthy adults who were given 28 mg/ day of saffron extract for 4 weeks, participants reported increased mood, reduced anxiety, and less stress.⁸

Overall, the antidepressant effects of saffron can help to boost your mood and help you feel more positive, while decreasing feelings of stress and anxiety. Genuine Health’s mood offers an effective and natural way to further support your mental health. Formulated with Affron®, a standardized saffron extract backed by several clinical studies, with added turmeric, a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, all helping to support a more positive, joyful, and balanced mindset. 

2. Memory 

Saffron appears to help memory too. Research has found saffron may have a positive impact on memory, working to inhibit neuro-inflammation and reverse neurotoxicity.^9,10 

Research shows saffron may be beneficial in treating neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, as well as improving memory impairment.^10,11 Saffron appears to have neuroprotective effects against cognitive decline. The best part? Research also shows that saffron may potentially have fewer side effects than synthetic drugs.¹⁰

For even more support, try using a plant-based supplement like memory. This brain boosting combination of ginkgo biloba, saffron, and sage naturally supports cognitive health, and sharpens your recall and ability to remember.  

3. Stress

Saffron has also been studied for its potential to alleviate stress.¹ Research suggests that saffron may help reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety by influencing key neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine.¹² 

Studies have shown that saffron's active compounds can modulate the body’s stress response, helping to reduce cortisol levels, which are associated with stress.¹ Animal studies have also shown that saffron may enhance the body's ability to resist stress, highlighting its promising role as a natural stress reliever.¹³ 

stress is uniquely formulated to help you manage and reduce common symptoms of stress such as fatigue, weariness and irritability. Each dose contains Affron® and added ingredients like adaptogenic (stress-supporting) ashwagandha (KSM-66 Ashwagandha®) and passionflower extract to help promote feelings of relaxation, while encouraging restorative sleep.  

4. Sleep 

Your mood, memory, and mind can be seriously impacted by sleep. Problems with sleep can cause fatigue, poor cognitive performance, low mood, anxiety, and more.¹⁴

Saffron has been shown to improve sleep quality. Research found that participants who took saffron supplements for 8 weeks reported improvements in insomnia, restorative sleep, and sleep quality, as well as improvements in alertness after waking up.¹⁵ 

Another study found saffron increases evening melatonin concentrations.¹⁶ Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and your circadian rhythm, helping you fall asleep at night.¹⁷  

When stress affects our sleep, and vice versa, it's essential to address both sides of the equation. Try taking saffron products, like stress, during the day and incorporating a natural supplement like deep sleep into your nighttime routine for extra sleep support.  

Saffron for well-rounded well-being 

Saffron supports brain health holistically, enhancing mental well-being through its multifaceted effects on mood, memory, and sleep. The spice’s synergistic effect on the brain can help contribute to a healthier mind year-round. 

Date modified: February 21^st, 2025

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