The cultivation of saffron as a medicinal plant goes back to ancient times, with estimates dating back to the 12th century BC. Traditionally, the red stigmas were handpicked from the saffron flowers at dawn and allowed to dry in the shade to help preserve their aroma and therapeutic properties. The plant was used by many cultures, including Egyptian, Roman, and Greek civilizations, and continues to be an important medicine in traditional Persian, Chinese, and Ayurvedic medical systems.<a href="#ref-33" id="ref-link-33" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Butnariu M, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35198096" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The Pharmacological Activities of L.: A Review Based on the Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities of its Phytoconstituents.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Oxid Med Cell Longev (2022)&lt;/div&gt;'>[33]</a> 
The traditional medicinal uses of saffron are far-reaching, with over 90 documented uses among different cultures. Some of these uses include pain relief and sedation; treating ailments of the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, eyes, nervous system, liver, circulatory system, and skin; as an aphrodisiac; and as a general tonic for strength and vitality.<a href="#ref-33" id="ref-link-33" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Butnariu M, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35198096" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The Pharmacological Activities of L.: A Review Based on the Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities of its Phytoconstituents.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Oxid Med Cell Longev (2022)&lt;/div&gt;'>[33]</a><a href="#ref-12" id="ref-link-12" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Aissa R, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37675158" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Phytochemistry, quality control and medicinal uses of Saffron (.): an updated review.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Med Life (2023-Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[12]</a>
Saffron also has a long history of use for culinary and cosmetic purposes. Its pigments are extracted for adding color to foods and textiles, as well as for applying topically to brighten the skin. As a culinary spice, saffron provides a sweet, floral, and slightly bitter flavor that is used in many traditional dishes in Persian and Indian cuisine.<a href="#ref-33" id="ref-link-33" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Butnariu M, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35198096" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The Pharmacological Activities of L.: A Review Based on the Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities of its Phytoconstituents.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Oxid Med Cell Longev (2022)&lt;/div&gt;'>[33]</a>

What are the traditional uses of saffron?

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is a flowering plant in the iris family used in various domains for its taste, aroma, pigment, and medicinal properties. Saffron, sometimes called “red gold”, is the most expensive spice in the world and is produced predominantly in Iran.<a href="#ref-4" id="ref-link-4" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Sadat Rafiei SK, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37484523" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Saffron and Sleep Quality: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Nutr Metab Insights (2023)&lt;/div&gt;'>[4]</a> The most prized part of the saffron plant is the dried red stigmas, which contain over 150 bioactive compounds including <a href="/foods/carotenoids/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Carotenoids&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Carotenoids are the orange, red, and yellow pigments found in plants that give them their distinct colors and provide dietary antioxidants such as vitamin A. There are over 600 carotenoids, but the most common include beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene, and zeaxanthin.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">carotenoids</a> (crocin, crocetin), terpenes (picrocrocin, safranol), and many other <a href="/other/phytochemicals/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Phytochemicals&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Phytochemicals are plant-derived compounds found in several fruits and vegetables. They have been associated with numerous health benefits due to their antioxidant properties. Phytochemicals include polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, phytoestrogens, and phytosterols.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">phytochemicals</a>.<a href="#ref-5" id="ref-link-5" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Cerdá-Bernad D, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36558528" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Saffron against Neuro-Cognitive Disorders: An Overview of Its Main Bioactive Compounds, Their Metabolic Fate and Potential Mechanisms of Neurological Protection.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Nutrients (2022 Dec 17)&lt;/div&gt;'>[5]</a>

What is saffron?

Early research suggests that saffron may benefit sleep in various populations (including those with <a href="/conditions/insomnia/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Insomnia&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Insomnia is a common sleep condition which involves trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or both. The resulting insufficient or poor-quality sleep can lead to worsened quality of life and functional impairments.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">insomnia</a>). Still, more research is needed to feel confident about this effect and to determine optimal dosing. 
Saffron may enhance several aspects of sleep as measured by various tools, most notably the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). The most consistent benefits seem to be for <a href="/outcomes/sleep-quality/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Sleep Quality&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Sleep quality refers to how restful your sleep is — how well it rejuvenates your mind and body. For you to feel rested in the morning, your sleep must have sufficient duration and quality. Like insufficient sleep duration, poor sleep quality can start a cascade of health issues. You may want to read our ten tips for better sleep.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">sleep quality</a> and <a href="/outcomes/sleepduration/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Sleep Duration&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;The amount of time spend sleeping during the night.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">sleep duration</a>.<a href="#ref-16" id="ref-link-16" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Jinrong Lian, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35325766" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects of saffron supplementation on improving sleep quality: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Sleep Med (2022 Apr)&lt;/div&gt;'>[16]</a><a href="#ref-4" id="ref-link-4" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Sadat Rafiei SK, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37484523" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Saffron and Sleep Quality: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Nutr Metab Insights (2023)&lt;/div&gt;'>[4]</a><a href="#ref-17" id="ref-link-17" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Munirah MP, Norhayati MN, Noraini M. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36141931" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Crocus Sativus for Insomnia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Int J Environ Res Public Health (2022-Sep-16)&lt;/div&gt;'>[17]</a> This effect appears to be the strongest in people with <a href="/conditions/type-2-diabetes/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Type 2 Diabetes&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a disease in which blood glucose levels are too high. It is characterized by insulin resistance in muscle, fat, and pancreas cells and an inability of the pancreas to manufacture enough insulin to control blood glucose levels. T2D is strongly associated with excess body fat, and weight loss induced by lifestyle changes is extremely effective for treating T2D.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">type 2 diabetes</a>, but further research is needed to confirm whether this is a true effect rather than an artifact of limited research.<a href="#ref-16" id="ref-link-16" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Jinrong Lian, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35325766" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects of saffron supplementation on improving sleep quality: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Sleep Med (2022 Apr)&lt;/div&gt;'>[16]</a>
Saffron’s effect on sleep is supported by animal research, which found that crocin and crocetin, major active compounds in saffron, significantly increased non-rapid-eye-movement (NREM) sleep in mice.<a href="#ref-18" id="ref-link-18" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Masaki M, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22038919" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Crocin promotes non-rapid eye movement sleep in mice.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Mol Nutr Food Res (2012-Feb)&lt;/div&gt;'>[18]</a> Additionally, safranal, another active compound in saffron, was found to dose-dependently increase sleep duration in mice.<a href="#ref-19" id="ref-link-19" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Hosseinzadeh H, Noraei NB. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19142981" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Anxiolytic and hypnotic effect of Crocus sativus aqueous extract and its constituents, crocin and safranal, in mice.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Phytother Res (2009-Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[19]</a> However, the doses and route of administration used in these studies were not representative of human use.

Does saffron improve sleep?

Few trials have assessed the effects of saffron on symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (<a href="/conditions/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity. Although often diagnosed in children, it’s nearly as common in adults.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">ADHD</a>), but preliminary research is promising.
Currently, existing trials have either compared saffron alone to methylphenidate, a common stimulant medication used in ADHD, or compared saffron plus methylphenidate to methylphenidate alone. In two trials, saffron was comparable to methylphenidate for reducing ADHD symptoms and improving <a href="/outcomes/executive-function/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Executive Function&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Executive function is a set of cognitive processes and skills related to self-control and behavior management that include working memory, mental flexibility, focus, emotional control, goal-setting, and following directions.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">executive function</a> in children and adolescents.<a href="#ref-20" id="ref-link-20" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;mb-3&quot;&gt;Blasco-Fontecilla H, et al. &lt;a href=&quot;https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36235697&quot; target=&quot;\_blank&quot; rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer&quot;&gt;Effectivity of Saffron Extract (Saffr'Activ) on Treatment for Children and Adolescents with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Clinical Effectivity Study.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Nutrients (2022-Sep-28)&lt;/div&gt;">[20]</a><a href="#ref-21" id="ref-link-21" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Sara Baziar, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30741567" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Crocus sativus L. Versus Methylphenidate in Treatment of Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Randomized, Double-Blind Pilot Study
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol (2019 Apr)&lt;/div&gt;'>[21]</a> In another two studies, adding saffron to methylphenidate seemed to more effectively reduce ADHD symptoms than methylphenidate alone in both children and adults.<a href="#ref-22" id="ref-link-22" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Khaksarian M, et al. &lt;a href="https://doi.org/10.5812/ijpbs.108390" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;A comparison of methylphenidate (MPH) and combined methylphenidate with Crocus sativus (saffron) in the treatment of children and adolescents with ADHD: A randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, clinical trial
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Iran J Psychiatry Behav Sci (2021 May)&lt;/div&gt;'>[22]</a><a href="#ref-23" id="ref-link-23" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Pazoki B, et al. &lt;a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aimed.2022.01.002" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Efficacy and safety of saffron as adjunctive therapy in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Adv Integr Med (2022 Mar)&lt;/div&gt;'>[23]</a>
Saffron may inhibit the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine (a similar mechanism to many ADHD medications), which could explain these results.<a href="#ref-13" id="ref-link-13" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Seyedi-Sahebari S, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37864351" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The Effects of (Saffron) on ADHD: A Systematic Review.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Atten Disord (2024-Jan)&lt;/div&gt;'>[13]</a>

Does saffron affect attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder?

Saffron may have a beneficial effect on various aspects of cardiovascular health and <a href="/conditions/metabolic-health/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Metabolic Health&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Metabolic health is defined as having ideal levels of blood glucose (blood sugar), triglycerides, cholesterol, blood pressure, and waist circumference without the use of medications. Metabolic health can also include the ability to regulate inflammation in the body.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">metabolic health</a>. Still, the research is mixed, and studies have included a wide range of patient populations, doses, and formulations (e.g., saffron extract, whole saffron powder, isolated crocin), which makes it difficult to draw any clear conclusions. 
Some evidence suggests that saffron can affect lipid profiles, including reductions in <a href="/outcomes/triglycerides/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Triglycerides&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Triglycerides refers to the fatty acids in your blood. They can be used for energy or stored into fat cells (i.e., body fat). Abnormal triglycerides raise the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">triglycerides</a>, <a href="/outcomes/total-cholesterol/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Total cholesterol&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Total cholesterol refers to all the cholesterol in your blood (HDL-C and LDL-C). It is distinct from triglycerides.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">total cholesterol</a>, and <a href="/outcomes/ldl-c/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;LDL carries cholesterol from the liver to other parts of the body. Because higher levels of LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) tend to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), LDL-C is often called the “bad cholesterol” (as opposed to HDL-C) — but the reality is more complex.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">low-density lipoprotein</a> (LDL) cholesterol. However, this effect may not be observed when it matters most: in people with elevated lipid levels or <a href="/conditions/type-2-diabetes/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Type 2 Diabetes&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a disease in which blood glucose levels are too high. It is characterized by insulin resistance in muscle, fat, and pancreas cells and an inability of the pancreas to manufacture enough insulin to control blood glucose levels. T2D is strongly associated with excess body fat, and weight loss induced by lifestyle changes is extremely effective for treating T2D.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">type 2 diabetes</a>.<a href="#ref-24" id="ref-link-24" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Mohammad Zamani, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36570145" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The effects of saffron supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors in adults: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Front Nutr (2022 Dec 8)&lt;/div&gt;'>[24]</a><a href="#ref-2" id="ref-link-2" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Amatto PPG, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37778521" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effect of Crocus sativus L. (saffron) and crocin in the treatment of patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Ethnopharmacol (2023-Sep-29)&lt;/div&gt;'>[2]</a>
Saffron may improve <a href="/outcomes/glycemic-control/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Glycemic Control&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Glycemic control refers to a person's average blood sugar levels. HbA1c is the most widely used marker to monitor glycemic control. A continuous glucose monitor or fingersticks are also commonly used to help monitor and improve glycemic control.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">glycemic control</a>, with some research finding reductions in both <a href="/outcomes/hba1c/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;HbA1c&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin) is a biomarker of glucose metabolism — it reflects glucose levels over months. Higher HbA1c is associated with more disease progression and comorbidities in states of insulin resistance or diabetes.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">hemoglobin A1c</a> (HbA1c) and <a href="/outcomes/fasting-glucose/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Fasting Glucose&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Fasting glucose is the concentration of glucose in the blood after a period of fasting, typically overnight.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">fasting glucose</a>, including in people with type 2 diabetes.<a href="#ref-24" id="ref-link-24" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Mohammad Zamani, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36570145" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The effects of saffron supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors in adults: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Front Nutr (2022 Dec 8)&lt;/div&gt;'>[24]</a><a href="#ref-2" id="ref-link-2" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Amatto PPG, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37778521" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effect of Crocus sativus L. (saffron) and crocin in the treatment of patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Ethnopharmacol (2023-Sep-29)&lt;/div&gt;'>[2]</a> 
Saffron might reduce <a href="/outcomes/blood-pressure/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Blood Pressure&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Blood pressure is the force that blood exerts on blood vessels as it circulates. &lt;em&gt;High&lt;/em&gt; blood pressure (&lt;em&gt;hyper&lt;/em&gt;tension) and &lt;em&gt;low&lt;/em&gt; blood pressure (&lt;em&gt;hypo&lt;/em&gt;tension) can each lead to a variety of health issues.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">blood pressure</a>, but most research that finds a reduction in systolic blood pressure has found no change in diastolic blood pressure.<a href="#ref-24" id="ref-link-24" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Mohammad Zamani, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36570145" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The effects of saffron supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors in adults: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Front Nutr (2022 Dec 8)&lt;/div&gt;'>[24]</a><a href="#ref-2" id="ref-link-2" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Amatto PPG, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37778521" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effect of Crocus sativus L. (saffron) and crocin in the treatment of patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Ethnopharmacol (2023-Sep-29)&lt;/div&gt;'>[2]</a>

Does saffron affect cardiometabolic health?

Saffron has been used traditionally as an aphrodisiac, and preliminary clinical research seems to support this use; however, replication of existing trials is needed.
Self-reported improvements in sexual function have been observed in a variety of contexts. For men with <a href="/conditions/erectile-dysfunction/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Erectile Dysfunction&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Erectile dysfunction is a type of male sexual dysfunction characterized by difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection. Erectile dysfunction can be caused by nerve or blood vessel damage, obesity, smoking, or stress.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">erectile dysfunction</a>, antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction, or <a href="/conditions/hypoactive-sexual-desire-disorder/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) involves a lack of motivation or interest in sexual activity or a loss of desire to initiate or participate in sexual activity. Individuals with HSDD often shown signs of distress, frustration, or worry about their lack of libido or sexual desire.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">hypoactive sexual desire disorder</a>, saffron may increase <a href="/outcomes/erections/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Erections&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Erections occur when the penis fills with blood, making it rigid, longer, and thicker. While erectile dysfunction (ED) has many possible causes, from the neurological to the physical, the ones nutrition can address are vasodilation — the widening of blood vessels to allow greater blood flow — and hormonal imbalances caused by nutritional deficiencies.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">erections</a> and overall satisfaction with intercourse.<a href="#ref-25" id="ref-link-25" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Maleki-Saghooni N, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29881706" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials on saffron (Crocus sativus) effectiveness and safety on erectile dysfunction and semen parameters.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Avicenna J Phytomed (2018 May-Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[25]</a><a href="#ref-26" id="ref-link-26" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Ranjbar H, Ashrafizaveh A. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31516855" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects of saffron (Crocus sativus) on sexual dysfunction among men and women: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Avicenna J Phytomed (2019 Sep-Oct)&lt;/div&gt;'>[26]</a><a href="#ref-27" id="ref-link-27" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Concerto C, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35892716" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;A Systematic Review on the Effect of Nutraceuticals on Antidepressant-Induced Sexual Dysfunctions: From Basic Principles to Clinical Applications.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Curr Issues Mol Biol (2022-Jul-25)&lt;/div&gt;'>[27]</a> In women with antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction, saffron was reported to increase vaginal lubrication and arousal and to reduce pain with intercourse.<a href="#ref-26" id="ref-link-26" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Ranjbar H, Ashrafizaveh A. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31516855" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects of saffron (Crocus sativus) on sexual dysfunction among men and women: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Avicenna J Phytomed (2019 Sep-Oct)&lt;/div&gt;'>[26]</a>

Does saffron affect sexual dysfunction?

Saffron may have neuroprotective effects that could benefit a variety of neurodegenerative diseases, such as <a href="/conditions/alzheimers-disease/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Alzheimer’s Disease&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that impairs cognitive function, especially memory formation. It is the most common type of dementia.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">Alzheimer’s disease</a>, but research is too preliminary to draw any meaningful conclusions. 
Saffron might improve <a href="/outcomes/cognition/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Cognition&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Cognition broadly represents the workings of the mind. Individual pages for specific cognitive faculties (memory, attention, alertness, processing speed, etc.) will generally be more useful.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">cognition</a> in people with Alzheimer’s disease, with limited research suggesting that saffron is more effective than placebo and provides similar benefits to those seen with commonly used medications like donepezil and memantine.<a href="#ref-28" id="ref-link-28" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;mb-3&quot;&gt;Akhondzadeh S, et al. &lt;a href=&quot;https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20831681&quot; target=&quot;\_blank&quot; rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer&quot;&gt;Saffron in the treatment of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease: a 16-week, randomized and placebo-controlled trial
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Clin Pharm Ther (2010 Oct)&lt;/div&gt;">[28]</a><a href="#ref-29" id="ref-link-29" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;mb-3&quot;&gt;Akhondzadeh S, et al. &lt;a href=&quot;https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19838862&quot; target=&quot;\_blank&quot; rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer&quot;&gt;A 22-week, multicenter, randomized, double-blind controlled trial of Crocus sativus in the treatment of mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Psychopharmacology (Berl) (2010 Jan)&lt;/div&gt;">[29]</a><a href="#ref-30" id="ref-link-30" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;mb-3&quot;&gt;Mehdi Farokhnia, et al. &lt;a href=&quot;https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25163440&quot; target=&quot;\_blank&quot; rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer&quot;&gt;Comparing the efficacy and safety of Crocus sativus L. with memantine in patients with moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease: a double-blind randomized clinical trial
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Hum Psychopharmacol (2014 Jul)&lt;/div&gt;">[30]</a> However, it’s important to note that the benefits observed for both saffron and conventional medicine were limited, either providing marginal improvements in cognitive function or simply delaying further cognitive decline.
<a href="/glossary/in-vitro-study/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;In Vitro Study&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;In vitro&lt;/em&gt; (Latin for “within the glass”) refers to studies that are performed outside of a living organism. In scientific research, this often involves performing experiments on bacterial, animal, or human cells growing in lab culture dishes.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">In vitro</a> research suggests that saffron could theoretically improve the function and survival of neurons in the brain by inhibiting the breakdown of acetylcholine, reducing glutamine signaling, and preventing the formation of amyloid-beta fibrils (part of the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease). Animal research has also found that saffron can reduce <a href="/faq/what-is-oxidative-stress/">oxidative stress</a> markers in the brain. Regardless, none of these effects have been observed in humans, and further research is needed to determine whether saffron has a role in Alzheimer’s disease.<a href="#ref-15" id="ref-link-15" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Hamedani SG, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38298664" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Therapeutic effects of saffron and its components on neurodegenerative diseases.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Heliyon (2024-Jan-30)&lt;/div&gt;'>[15]</a><a href="#ref-31" id="ref-link-31" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Avgerinos KI, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32445136" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) on cognitive function. A systematic review of RCTs.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Neurol Sci (2020-Oct)&lt;/div&gt;'>[31]</a>

Does saffron affect Alzheimer’s disease?

Preliminary research has found that saffron may benefit eye health, likely thanks to its content of antioxidant <a href="/foods/carotenoids/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Carotenoids&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Carotenoids are the orange, red, and yellow pigments found in plants that give them their distinct colors and provide dietary antioxidants such as vitamin A. There are over 600 carotenoids, but the most common include beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene, and zeaxanthin.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">carotenoids</a> — primarily crocin and crocetin. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings. 
In people with age-related or diabetic <a href="/conditions/macular-degeneration/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Macular Degeneration&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Macular degeneration (aka age-related macular degeneration) is a condition that causes blurred, limited, or no vision in the center of the eye’s visual field.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">macular degeneration</a>, saffron supplementation may improve retinal function, leading to improved visual acuity (the ability to identify increasingly smaller letters from a distance). When used in addition to standard therapy in people with <a href="/conditions/glaucoma/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Glaucoma&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions, the common feature of which is characteristic damage of the optic nerve which transmits light signals to the brain. Left untreated, glaucoma can cause irreversible vision loss. Currently, the only established modifiable risk factor for glaucoma is elevated pressure inside the eye.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">glaucoma</a>, saffron was found to further reduce pressure within the eye.<a href="#ref-32" id="ref-link-32" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Sepahi S, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32379589" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Pharmacological Effects of Saffron and its Constituents in Ocular Disorders from in vitro Studies to Clinical Trials: A Systematic Review.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Curr Neuropharmacol (2021)&lt;/div&gt;'>[32]</a>

Does saffron affect eye health?

Saffron is a potent antioxidant and has shown consistent benefits for <a href="/conditions/depression/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Depression&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Depression is a chronic state of low mood often associated with hopelessness, apathy, and fatigue. Unlike sadness, depression is a disorder that persists for weeks or months and interferes with daily life.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">depression</a>.<a href="#ref-6" id="ref-link-6" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Abedi A, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36817799" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effect of saffron supplementation on oxidative stress markers (MDA, TAC, TOS, GPx, SOD, and pro-oxidant/antioxidant balance): An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Front Med (Lausanne) (2023)&lt;/div&gt;'>[6]</a> 
When used in people with minor to moderate depression, saffron appears to be superior to placebo and comparable to some commonly used antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, citalopram) for reducing symptoms of depression and achieving remission.<a href="#ref-7" id="ref-link-7" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Wolfgang Marx, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31135916" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effect of saffron supplementation on symptoms of depression and anxiety: a systematic review and meta-analysis
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Nutr Rev (2019 May 28)&lt;/div&gt;'>[7]</a><a href="#ref-8" id="ref-link-8" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Lili Dai, Lingyan Chen, Wenjing Wang. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32221179" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Safety and Efficacy of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) for Treating Mild to Moderate Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Nerv Ment Dis (2020 Apr)&lt;/div&gt;'>[8]</a><a href="#ref-9" id="ref-link-9" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Musazadeh V, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34757208" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Saffron, as an adjunct therapy, contributes to relieve depression symptoms: An umbrella meta-analysis.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Pharmacol Res (2022-Jan)&lt;/div&gt;'>[9]</a> Saffron may also reduce symptoms of <a href="/conditions/anxiety/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Anxiety&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Anxiety is characterized by excessive tension and worry. Unlike fear, it is persistent and future oriented. There are many types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, phobias, and panic disorder.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">anxiety</a>, but this effect is less clearly established.<a href="#ref-7" id="ref-link-7" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Wolfgang Marx, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31135916" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effect of saffron supplementation on symptoms of depression and anxiety: a systematic review and meta-analysis
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Nutr Rev (2019 May 28)&lt;/div&gt;'>[7]</a> 
While the evidence is promising, nearly all of the clinical trials have been conducted in Iran, sample sizes have been small (&lt;100 people), and durations have been short (≤12 weeks). Larger and longer trials in more diverse populations are needed to further validate these effects and determine whether the benefits persist over time.

What are saffron’s main benefits?

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<h1 class="content-header content-header-h1">⚠️ Caution: Saffron may not be safe during pregnancy</h1>
At high doses, saffron and its main active compounds (crocin, safranal, and crocetin) induced fetal malformations in animal models, although this was not observed at pharmacological doses. In humans, an observational trial found that women exposed to high levels of saffron through harvesting the plant had a higher rate of miscarriage, potentially due to stimulation of uterine contractions and bleeding.<a href="#ref-10" id="ref-link-10" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Bostan HB, Mehri S, Hosseinzadeh H. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28293386" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Toxicology effects of saffron and its constituents: a review.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Iran J Basic Med Sci (2017-Feb)&lt;/div&gt;'>[10]</a>
</div>
The most common side effects of saffron include <a href="/outcomes/nausea-symptoms/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Nausea Symptoms&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Nausea is the feeling of acute sickness that may result in vomiting and loss of appetite. Some supplements are known as antiemetics, and are used to reduce the sensation of nausea when taken.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">nausea</a>, changes in appetite, <a href="/conditions/dry-mouth/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Dry Mouth&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a condition in which insufficient saliva is produced from salivary glands which cause excessive dryness of the mouth.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">dry mouth</a>, headache, <a href="/conditions/anxiety/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Anxiety&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Anxiety is characterized by excessive tension and worry. Unlike fear, it is persistent and future oriented. There are many types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, phobias, and panic disorder.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">anxiety</a>, and <a href="/outcomes/drowsiness/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Drowsiness&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Drowsiness is the experience of tiredness or sleepiness. Typically a result of not sleeping enough, drowsiness can also be a symptom of a more severe underlying condition.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">drowsiness</a>.<a href="#ref-10" id="ref-link-10" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Bostan HB, Mehri S, Hosseinzadeh H. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28293386" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Toxicology effects of saffron and its constituents: a review.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Iran J Basic Med Sci (2017-Feb)&lt;/div&gt;'>[10]</a> Changes in blood parameters have been reported in studies using doses of 60–400 mg daily, although it’s not clear if this has any clinical implications.<a href="#ref-11" id="ref-link-11" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Safarinejad MR, Shafiei N, Safarinejad S. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20824894" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;A prospective double-blind randomized placebo-controlled study of the effect of saffron (Crocus sativus Linn.) on semen parameters and seminal plasma antioxidant capacity in infertile men with idiopathic oligoasthenoteratozoospermia
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Phytother Res (2011 Apr)&lt;/div&gt;'>[11]</a><a href="#ref-10" id="ref-link-10" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Bostan HB, Mehri S, Hosseinzadeh H. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28293386" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Toxicology effects of saffron and its constituents: a review.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Iran J Basic Med Sci (2017-Feb)&lt;/div&gt;'>[10]</a> At excessively high doses (1,200–2,000 mg), saffron has been reported to cause vomiting, diarrhea, and bleeding.<a href="#ref-1" id="ref-link-1" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Schmidt M, Betti G, Hensel A. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17704979" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Saffron in phytotherapy: pharmacology and clinical uses.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Wien Med Wochenschr (2007)&lt;/div&gt;'>[1]</a> Supplementing with isolated crocin (one of the active compounds in saffron) at normal doses may raise serum <a href="/outcomes/creatinine/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Creatinine&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Creatinine is a metabolic byproduct of creatine, and is sometimes used as a biomarker for kidney damage as it can accumulate when kidneys are impaired (despite creatine supplementation giving a false positive).&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">creatinine</a> levels, which could indicate a risk of kidney damage.<a href="#ref-2" id="ref-link-2" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Amatto PPG, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37778521" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effect of Crocus sativus L. (saffron) and crocin in the treatment of patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Ethnopharmacol (2023-Sep-29)&lt;/div&gt;'>[2]</a> 
There are concerns regarding the quality of saffron supplements. Some of the important compounds in saffron are sensitive to light, oxygen, and temperature. Further, the way saffron is grown, harvested, and processed can alter its chemical composition. Due to its high economic value, saffron has also historically been prone to adulteration.<a href="#ref-12" id="ref-link-12" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Aissa R, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37675158" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Phytochemistry, quality control and medicinal uses of Saffron (.): an updated review.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Med Life (2023-Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[12]</a> These factors may lead to large variations in the types and amounts of active compounds found in a saffron supplement which could impact its effectiveness. Choosing a supplement that is third-party tested can help ensure its quality. 
Lastly, most of the research on saffron has been conducted in Iran, and its effects on other populations require further validation.

What are saffron’s main drawbacks?

Saffron contains many active compounds, but crocin, crocetin, safranol, and picrocrocin are considered to be the most important.<a href="#ref-13" id="ref-link-13" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Seyedi-Sahebari S, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37864351" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The Effects of (Saffron) on ADHD: A Systematic Review.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Atten Disord (2024-Jan)&lt;/div&gt;'>[13]</a> Following consumption, some of these compounds are transformed within the gastrointestinal tract, and the main compound found in the blood seems to be crocetin (although more research is needed in this department).<a href="#ref-5" id="ref-link-5" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Cerdá-Bernad D, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36558528" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Saffron against Neuro-Cognitive Disorders: An Overview of Its Main Bioactive Compounds, Their Metabolic Fate and Potential Mechanisms of Neurological Protection.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Nutrients (2022 Dec 17)&lt;/div&gt;'>[5]</a>
Preclinical research suggests that saffron can influence the brain in a variety of ways, which likely explains its effects on mood and <a href="/outcomes/cognition/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Cognition&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Cognition broadly represents the workings of the mind. Individual pages for specific cognitive faculties (memory, attention, alertness, processing speed, etc.) will generally be more useful.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">cognition</a>. Saffron may prevent the reuptake of certain neurotransmitters — like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine — which allows their effects to persist for longer.<a href="#ref-8" id="ref-link-8" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Lili Dai, Lingyan Chen, Wenjing Wang. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32221179" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Safety and Efficacy of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) for Treating Mild to Moderate Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Nerv Ment Dis (2020 Apr)&lt;/div&gt;'>[8]</a> Saffron may also interact with the HPA axis, leading to reduced levels of <a href="/outcomes/cortisol/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Cortisol&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Cortisol is a hormone that mediates the stress response and sleep-wake cycle, being high in the morning and (hopefully) low in the evening. It triggers gluconeogenesis and a variety of other catabolic reactions. It isn't necessarily harmful or needing to be minimized, but excessive and chronically high cortisol can cause insulin resistance, endothelial dysfunction, reduced immune function, and other negative effects.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">cortisol</a>, and might influence neuroplasticity by increasing <a href="/outcomes/serum-bdnf/" class="popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Serum BDNF&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a protein that promotes the growth of new neurons and inhibits the degradation of existing neurons. "Serum BDNF" refers to the amount of BDNF found in the blood.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;'>brain-derived neurotrophic factor</a> (BDNF).<a href="#ref-9" id="ref-link-9" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Musazadeh V, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34757208" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Saffron, as an adjunct therapy, contributes to relieve depression symptoms: An umbrella meta-analysis.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Pharmacol Res (2022-Jan)&lt;/div&gt;'>[9]</a> 
As an antioxidant, saffron may increase the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2), leading to increased levels of antioxidant enzymes and an overall improved antioxidant capacity.<a href="#ref-14" id="ref-link-14" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Moini Jazani A, Karimi A, Nasimi Doost Azgomi R. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35331485" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The potential role of saffron (Crocus Sativus L.) and its components in oxidative stress in diabetes mellitus: A systematic review.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Clin Nutr ESPEN (2022-Apr)&lt;/div&gt;'>[14]</a><a href="#ref-6" id="ref-link-6" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Abedi A, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36817799" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effect of saffron supplementation on oxidative stress markers (MDA, TAC, TOS, GPx, SOD, and pro-oxidant/antioxidant balance): An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Front Med (Lausanne) (2023)&lt;/div&gt;'>[6]</a> In animal studies, saffron has reduced <a href="/faq/what-is-oxidative-stress/">oxidative stress</a> in brain tissue.<a href="#ref-15" id="ref-link-15" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Hamedani SG, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38298664" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Therapeutic effects of saffron and its components on neurodegenerative diseases.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Heliyon (2024-Jan-30)&lt;/div&gt;'>[15]</a>

How does saffron work?

Saffron

Eyes & Vision

Mental Health

Saffron in phytotherapy: pharmacology and clinical uses.

Effect of Crocus sativus L. (saffron) and crocin in the treatment of patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Protective role of antioxidant supplementation for depression and anxiety: A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

Saffron and Sleep Quality: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Saffron against Neuro-Cognitive Disorders: An Overview of Its Main Bioactive Compounds, Their Metabolic Fate and Potential Mechanisms of Neurological Protection.

Effect of saffron supplementation on oxidative stress markers (MDA, TAC, TOS, GPx, SOD, and pro-oxidant/antioxidant balance): An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials.

Effect of saffron supplementation on symptoms of depression and anxiety: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Safety and Efficacy of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) for Treating Mild to Moderate Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Saffron, as an adjunct therapy, contributes to relieve depression symptoms: An umbrella meta-analysis.

Toxicology effects of saffron and its constituents: a review.

A prospective double-blind randomized placebo-controlled study of the effect of saffron (Crocus sativus Linn.) on semen parameters and seminal plasma antioxidant capacity in infertile men with idiopathic oligoasthenoteratozoospermia

Phytochemistry, quality control and medicinal uses of Saffron (.): an updated review.

The Effects of  (Saffron) on ADHD: A Systematic Review.

The potential role of saffron (Crocus Sativus L.) and its components in oxidative stress in diabetes mellitus: A systematic review.

Therapeutic effects of saffron and its components on neurodegenerative diseases.

Effects of saffron supplementation on improving sleep quality: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Crocus Sativus for Insomnia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Crocin promotes non-rapid eye movement sleep in mice.

Anxiolytic and hypnotic effect of Crocus sativus aqueous extract and its constituents, crocin and safranal, in mice.

Effectivity of Saffron Extract (Saffr'Activ) on Treatment for Children and Adolescents with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Clinical Effectivity Study.

Crocus sativus L. Versus Methylphenidate in Treatment of Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Randomized, Double-Blind Pilot Study

A comparison of methylphenidate (MPH) and combined methylphenidate with Crocus sativus (saffron) in the treatment of children and adolescents with ADHD: A randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, clinical trial

Efficacy and safety of saffron as adjunctive therapy in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial

The effects of saffron supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors in adults: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis

A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials on saffron (Crocus sativus) effectiveness and safety on erectile dysfunction and semen parameters.

Effects of saffron (Crocus sativus) on sexual dysfunction among men and women: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

A Systematic Review on the Effect of Nutraceuticals on Antidepressant-Induced Sexual Dysfunctions: From Basic Principles to Clinical Applications.

Saffron in the treatment of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease: a 16-week, randomized and placebo-controlled trial

A 22-week, multicenter, randomized, double-blind controlled trial of Crocus sativus in the treatment of mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease

Comparing the efficacy and safety of Crocus sativus L. with memantine in patients with moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease: a double-blind randomized clinical trial

Effects of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) on cognitive function. A systematic review of RCTs.

Pharmacological Effects of Saffron and its Constituents in Ocular Disorders from in vitro Studies to Clinical Trials: A Systematic Review.

The Pharmacological Activities of  L.: A Review Based on the Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities of its Phytoconstituents.

Saffron

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