In the quest for natural remedies for mental health, Saffron Extract has emerged like sunshine on a cloudy day. Renowned for its vibrant hue and distinct flavor in culinary traditions, saffron's potential benefits in improving symptoms of depression have garnered attention in the scientific community leading to many random control trials (1). This article delves into the profound impact of saffron extract on depression, underpinned by scientific research and studies.
Understanding Saffron Extract
Saffron, scientifically known as Crocus sativus L., is a revered spice, believed to originate in Iran and propagated throughout much of Eurasia and was later brought to parts of North Africa, North America, and Oceania. Currently Iran produces about 90% of the total worldwide production. As demand for saffron increases the demand for this spice is expected to grow by at least 12 % in the next few years (2). There are nearly 150 volatile and nonvolatile chemicals in saffron with the most volatile/fragile such as safranal found to have the greatest therapeutic properties. This spice is expensive due to the labor involved in cultivating and hand harvesting of the stagmus of the flowers. To preserve the volatile/fragile compounds in saffron the saffron threads/stagmus must be harvested by hand (3).
The medicinal properties of saffron have been acknowledged in traditional medicine for centuries. It's not merely a spice but a compound rich in crocins, safranal, and picrocrocin, which are believed to be responsible for its health benefits, including its antidepressant effects (4).
Saffron Extract and Depression: What Does the Research Say?
Numerous studies have highlighted saffron's potential in treating depression. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, published in 2013 the Journal of Integrative Medicine (5) and in 1019 in Journal of Medicinal Plant Research (6), concluded that saffron supplementation significantly improved symptoms of depression. Another pivotal study in the Journal of Affective Disorders (7) reported that saffron extract was as effective as conventional antidepressants like fluoxetine and imipramine, without the adverse effects often associated with these medications.
Mechanisms of Action: How Does Saffron Alleviate Depression?
Saffron's antidepressant properties are attributed to its ability to modulate neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine (4). These chemicals are crucial in regulating mood and emotional well-being. The compounds in saffron, particularly crocin and safranal, are thought to inhibit the reuptake of these neurotransmitters, thereby increasing their availability in the brain.
The Role of Antioxidants in Saffron Extract
Saffron is rich in antioxidants, which play a vital role in protecting the body against oxidative stress, a factor that has been linked to depression. The antioxidants in saffron, such as crocin, have been shown to combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, providing a neuroprotective effect that can be beneficial in managing depression (3).
Clinical Trials: Saffron Extract as an Antidepressant
In a compelling study published in the Frontiers in Nutrition, saffron extract showed a significant effect in treating mild to moderate depression (8). Participants reported improvements in their mood and overall quality of life after taking saffron supplements. These findings are corroborated by other clinical trials, further reinforcing saffron's potential as a natural treatment for depression.
Safety and Dosage Considerations
While saffron extract is generally considered safe, it's crucial to adhere to the recommended dosages to avoid potential side effects. Most clinical studies have used doses ranging from 15 mg to 30 mg of saffron extract, twice daily. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those taking medication.
Incorporating Saffron Extract into Your Routine
Incorporating saffron extract into one's routine can be a holistic approach to managing depression. It can be consumed in supplement form or integrated into the diet through culinary dishes. However, it's paramount to source high-quality saffron extract from reputable suppliers to ensure its efficacy and safety.
Conclusion: A Ray of Hope in Natural Depression Treatment
Saffron extract stands out as a promising natural alternative for managing depression. Its potential to improve mood and quality of life, backed by scientific research, makes it a compelling option for those seeking a holistic approach to mental health. By understanding the benefits, mechanisms of action, and proper usage of saffron extract, individuals can make informed decisions about integrating this remarkable spice into their mental health regimen.
Citations:
1.    Lopresti AL, Drummond PD. Saffron (Crocus sativus) for depression: a systematic review of clinical studies and examination of underlying antidepressant mechanisms of action. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2014 Nov;29(6):517-27. doi: 10.1002/hup.2434. Epub 2014 Sep 22. PMID: 25384672.
2.    Abdullaev FI, Frenkel GD. Effect of saffron on cell colony formation and cellular nucleic acid and protein synthesis. Biofactors. 1992 Jan;3(3):201-4. PMID: 1376126.
3.    Tareq Abu-Izneid, Abdur Rauf , Anees Ahmed Khalil , Ahmed Olatunde, Ahood Khalid, Fahad A. Alhumaydhi , Abdullah S. M. Aljohani , Md. Sahab Uddin , Mojtaba Heydari , Mars Khayrullin, Mohammad Ali Shariati , Adeyemi Oladapo Aremu , Ahmed Alafnan & Kannan R. R. Rengasamy (2020): Nutritional and health beneficial properties of saffron(Crocus sativus L): a comprehensive review, Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2020.1857682
4.    Jelodar G, Javid Z, Sahraian A, Jelodar S. Saffron improved depression and reduced homocysteine level in patients with major depression: A Randomized, double-blind study. Avicenna J Phytomed. 2018 Jan-Feb;8(1):43-50. PMID: 29387573; PMCID: PMC5787996.
5.    Hausenblas HA, Saha D, Dubyak PJ, Anton SD. Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and major depressive disorder: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. J Integr Med. 2013 Nov;11(6):377-83. doi: 10.3736/jintegrmed2013056. PMID: 24299602; PMCID: PMC4643654.
6.    Tóth B, Hegyi P, Lantos T, Szakács Z, Kerémi B, Varga G, Tenk J, Pétervári E, Balaskó M, Rumbus Z, Rakonczay Z, Bálint ER, Kiss T, Csupor D. The Efficacy of Saffron in the Treatment of Mild to Moderate Depression: A Meta-analysis. Planta Med. 2019 Jan;85(1):24-31. doi: 10.1055/a-0660-9565. Epub 2018 Jul 23. PMID: 30036891.
7.    Shafiee M, Arekhi S, Omranzadeh A, Sahebkar A. Saffron in the treatment of depression, anxiety and other mental disorders: Current evidence and potential mechanisms of action. J Affect Disord. 2018 Feb;227:330-337. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2017.11.020. Epub 2017 Nov 7. PMID: 29136602.
8.    Jackson PA, Forster J, Khan J, Pouchieu C, Dubreuil S, Gaudout D, Moras B, Pourtau L, Joffre F, Vaysse C, Bertrand K, Abrous H, Vauzour D, Brossaud J, Corcuff JB, Capuron L, Kennedy DO. Effects of Saffron Extract Supplementation on Mood, Well-Being, and Response to a Psychosocial Stressor in Healthy Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel Group, Clinical Trial. Front Nutr. 2021 Feb 1;7:606124. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2020.606124. PMID: 33598475; PMCID: PMC7882499.