Posted by Alexa Schmitz
on May 03, 2025
Why I’m So Fascinated by Saffron (and What the Science Says)
As a conventionally trained family physician grounded in integrative and natural medicine, I’ve always believed in turning to the Earth first—looking to plants, roots, and time-honored traditions before reaching for pharmaceutical or allopathic solutions. That belief is the heartbeat of Meditonic: honoring ancient wisdom while embracing the best of modern science.
One of the plants I’ve come to love the most—both professionally and personally—is saffron.
It’s a spice that’s been cherished in traditional systems of medicine like Ayurveda and Persian medicine for centuries, especially for lifting mood, soothing the heart, and promoting rest. But it also has a special place in my life outside of medicine and is a daily staple in my home. My partner is from a culture where saffron is woven into both food and healing. Since we met, saffron has infused our rituals—from golden rice dishes to warm teas shared on slower evenings. It’s not just a spice—it’s a symbol of care, connection, and presence.
That personal connection sparked a deeper professional curiosity. Could this ancient remedy—so revered in traditional medicine—hold up in clinical research?
The answer is: yes. And the data is compelling.
🌿 Saffron & Mood Support
A large meta-analysis of 23 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) found that saffron significantly improved symptoms of depression, with a strong effect size (g = 0.99)—similar to what we’d expect from pharmaceutical antidepressants [1].
In another review of 12 studies, saffron was found to be as effective as synthetic antidepressants, without a meaningful increase in side effects [2,3]. To me, this is incredibly promising for individuals seeking natural solutions for mood support!
🌿 Saffron & Anxiety Relief
Saffron doesn't just help with depression - it's also been shown to ease anxiety. In the same meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, saffron supplementation produced a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms compared to placebo (g = 0.95), with some studies showing similar improvements to standard pharmaceutical treatments [1].
One double-blind trial in adults with mild-to-moderate anxiety found that 30 mg/day of saffron extract for 8 weeks significantly reduced anxiety scores on the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) compared to placebo, with no increase in side effects [2].
Beyond the clinical trials, preclinical studies provide clues to saffron’s calming effects. Safranal, a key volatile compound, has been shown in animal models to reduce anxious behaviors and promote relaxation without sedation [3]. These findings suggest saffron may help modulate the body’s stress response, supporting a calmer, more balanced mental state.
🌿 Better Sleep, Naturally
A growing number of clinical trials and systematic reviews have shown that saffron can improve sleep quality and duration, using validated tools like the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) [4].
One randomized trial in adults with type 2 diabetes—a population often affected by mood and sleep disruptions—found that supplementing with 30 mg/day of saffron for 8 weeks significantly improved depression, anxiety, and sleep quality [5].
Similarly, a 12-week trial in generally healthy adults with subclinical depression found that saffron extract improved both mood and sleep outcomes compared to placebo [6]/.
Why I Chose Saffron as Our First Meditonic Formula
For me, saffron represents the perfect meeting place of tradition and science. It’s why our first Meditonic formulation, Saffwell Gummies, is rooted in this golden spice. We’ve paired super Negin saffron threads and clinically studied saffron extract with wildflower and Manuka honeys, and Damask rose. Read about the benefits of each ingredient in my other blogs.
It’s a deeply intentional blend to support your mood, calm your mind, and help you rest. If you’re curious about natural ways to feel more emotionally balanced and grounded in your body—saffron might just be the spice for you. There’s a reason this golden thread has been cherished across generations—and I can’t wait to share it with you.
References
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Heitmann, K., Varnum, H., Dodd, F., Stough, C., & Sarris, J. (2024). Effect of saffron supplementation on symptoms of depression and anxiety: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Affective Disorders, 357, 285–299. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2024.02.053
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Khaksarian, M., Khaksarian, M., & Soori, H. (2025). Effect of saffron versus selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in treatment of depression and anxiety: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Nutrition Reviews, 83(3), e751–e764. https://doi.org/10.1093/nutrit/nuae018
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Lopresti, A. L., & Drummond, P. D. (2019). Saffron (Crocus sativus) for depression: A systematic review of clinical studies and examination of underlying antidepressant mechanisms of action. Planta Medica, 85(1), 1–14. https://doi.org/10.1055/a-0660-9565
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Lopresti, A. L., & Drummond, P. D. (2020). Efficacy of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) on sleep: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, 16(5), 775–783. https://doi.org/10.5664/jcsm.8310
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Milajerdi, A., Ghiasvand, R., & Siassi, F. (2018). The effect of saffron supplementation on depression, anxiety, and sleep quality in patients with type 2 diabetes: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 40, 1–6. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2018.07.004
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Stough, C., Downey, L. A., Lloyd, J., Silber, B., Redman, S., & Travis, S. (2025). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigating the mood and sleep effects of a standardized saffron extract (Affron®) in healthy adults with subclinical depression. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 176, 162–171. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychires.2025.01.010
