It may function as a certain spice. natural antidepressantsays the expert.
Saffron, found in popular foods and drinks such as paella and herbal tea, has shown promise for its ability to lift mood and reduce symptoms of depression, among other benefits. health benefits.
In an in-studio interview with Fox News Digital, Dr. Daniel Amen, psychiatrist and founder of California’s Amen Clinic, shared his enthusiasm for using saffron for mental health support.
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“I love saffron,” he said. “I’m Lebanese, and people in the Middle East cook with a lot of saffron, and there’s actually a folklore in Iran that says if you’re too happy, you must have eaten saffron.”
Amen referenced a study that showed about 30 milligrams of saffron was “as effective” as antidepressants. randomized trial.
Most SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) have mood-enhancing effects, but they also carry the risk of lowering your mood. sexual function. According to Amen, saffron is the opposite.
“As a psychiatrist, I don’t want to ruin my patients’ love lives,” he says. “Saffron enhances sexual function [in research]. ”
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Various studies have also shown that saffron helps with memory and concentration.
A recent study published in Reviews in Clinical Medicine 2025 also linked saffron to symptom relief. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
After using saffron for 8 to 12 weeks, participants reported that the supplement “significantly reduced” their PMS symptoms and severity.
Additional research published in Cambridge University Press in May 2025 revealed that saffron may alleviate symptoms. symptoms of depression.
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This review analyzed 192 trials involving more than 17,000 patients and 44 different nutritional supplements to determine which supplements are effective for depression.
Saffron was found to be the most effective, showing moderate to large antidepressant effects.
The meta-analysis also investigated how these dietary supplements interact with prescription drugs. antidepressants.
Combining supplements such as zinc and curcumin (a natural compound found in turmeric) with existing antidepressants has been found to improve symptoms.
“So if you’re taking antidepressants and want to make them even more effective, think about zinc and curcumin,” Amen recommended. “Saffron, zinc and curcumin are a great combination.”
Although cooking with saffron may not achieve the level of mood improvement needed, saffron supplements Available as capsules, tablets, and powdered extracts. Typically, the recommended dose for symptom relief is 30 milligrams per day.
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Researchers and experts caution that long-term use of saffron has not yet been studied, as there is uncertainty about its efficacy as a supplement.
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According to a medically reviewed WebMD article, consuming saffron in high doses or for long periods of time “may be dangerous” and may cause anxiety, appetite changes, upset stomach Drowsiness or headache.
Anyone thinking of starting saffron supplements should consult their doctor first.
