Back to all supplements

    Saffron

    Morning

    Saffron is a spice harvested from the stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower, native to Southwest Asia and widely cultivated in Iran. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and has gained attention in modern research for its mood-supporting and anxiolytic properties. The active compounds crocin and safranal are believed to be responsible for most of its therapeutic effects.

    Research Evidence
    May support appetite regulation
    Limited
    May lower anxiety scores on standardized rating scales
    Moderate
    May have antioxidant and neuroprotective properties
    Limited
    May reduce symptoms of mild to moderate low mood
    Strong
    May support healthy stress response
    Moderate
    Source: Examine.com

    Expert Evidence

    2 references from 1 expert

    Discusses

    “Orally ingested saffron at 30 milligrams seems to be a reliable dose for reducing anxiety on the standard inventories like the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale. These were significant effects carried out in both male and female subjects, several of which were double-blind studies.”

    Unknown Title

    2:03:21
    Andrew Huberman

    2 references in 2 episodes from 2021–2025

    AI-generated summary

    Huberman highlights saffron as an evidence-based anxiolytic, citing 12 double-blind studies showing that 30mg oral saffron reliably reduces anxiety scores on the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale in both men and women. He does not mention personal use, specific brands, timing, cautions, or interactions.

    2025
    Safety & Cautions

    Side Effects

    • Dry mouth
    • Drowsiness
    • Nausea at higher doses
    • Headache
    • Appetite changes
    At standard supplemental doses of 30 mg per day, saffron is generally well-tolerated with a mild side-effect profile. Pregnant women should avoid supplemental doses, as high amounts have historically been associated with uterine stimulation.
    Pairs Well With
    MagnesiumOmega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA)Vitamin D3L-Theanine
    Price Comparison
    Report an error