Saffron: small effects from supplements, almost nothing from the spice jar

Almost everything known about saffron and health comes from capsules and extracts, which is a different thing from the pinch you put in rice. In a meta-analysis of 34 placebo-controlled trials in 1,769 adults, saffron supplements lowered self-rated depression scores on the Beck scale by 4.4 points in the 14 trials that used it (95% CI -6.64 to -2.15). The results varied a lot between trials, most of which were run in Iran, and the scales that clinicians scored showed no effect. Across 25 trials in 1,486 adults with metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, fatty liver or obesity, saffron lowered HbA1c by 0.25 percentage points and fasting glucose by 6.7 mg/dL against placebo, small changes that did not extend to LDL cholesterol or BMI. The spice itself is rich per 3.5 oz (100 g), with 11.1 mg of iron. A teaspoon weighs 0.7 g and gives under 0.1 mg, and a dish usually gets less than a teaspoon.

The numbers, per 3.5 oz (100 g)

How much is actually in it

• The UK composition dataset lists 0 mg vitamin C in saffron while the USDA lists 80.8 mg per 3.5 oz (100 g), so its vitamin C content is uncertain. — Saffron, per 3.5 oz (100 g) Evidence E source
  Vitamin C CoFID 0 mg vs USDA 80.8 mg; iron 11.10 mg in both; manganese 28.40 mg (CoFID)

What a real portion looks like

• A teaspoon of saffron weighs about 0.7 g, so despite 11.1 mg iron per 3.5 oz (100 g) it supplies under 0.1 mg iron per teaspoon. — Spices, saffron, per 3.5 oz (100 g) and per 1 tsp (0.7 g) Evidence E source
  Per 100 g: iron 11.1 mg, magnesium 264 mg, potassium 1724 mg, vitamin C 80.8 mg; 1 tsp = 0.7 g, about 0.08 mg iron

What your body absorbs

• Pharmacokinetic data suggest only about 0.04% to 2.4% of oral crocin, saffron's main pigment, reaches the bloodstream, peaking 2 to 3 hours after intake. — non-pregnant adults, pharmacokinetic studies cited in a 2026 review Evidence D source
  Absolute crocin bioavailability about 0.04-2.4%; Tmax 2-3 h; half-life about 4-6 h

What it does to your health

• A 2019 meta-analysis of 9 pooled randomized trials in mild to moderate depression found saffron clearly better than placebo (g 0.89) and not worse than the antidepressants it was tested against. — Patients with mild to moderate depression in randomized controlled trials of oral saffron (n = 9 trials pooled) Evidence A source
  Saffron vs placebo g = 0.891 (95% CI 0.369 to 1.412); saffron vs antidepressants g = -0.246 (95% CI -0.495 to 0.004), non-inferior
• A 2025 network meta-analysis of 192 trials with 17,437 patients ranked saffron among four supplements that outperformed antidepressants alone as monotherapy, with an effect size of 0.69. — Adults with depressive disorder in trials of 44 nutraceuticals (n = 17437) Evidence A source
  Saffron monotherapy vs antidepressant SMD 0.69 (95% CI 0.34 to 1.04); most nutraceuticals tolerated like placebo
• A 2023 meta-analysis of 52 antioxidant supplement trials with 4049 people found crocin, the saffron pigment, improved depression scores by 6 points. — Participants in RCTs of antioxidant supplements and depression (n = 4049) Evidence A source
  Crocin MD 6.04 (p < 0.00001) on depression scores
• In a 12-week RCT of 202 adults with depressive symptoms, saffron extract lowered DASS-21 depression scores more than placebo, though many in the placebo group also improved. — Two hundred and two adults aged 18-70 with depressive symptoms (n = 202) Evidence B source
  DASS-21 depression beta -2.92 points (95% CI -5.13 to -0.71), Cohen's d 0.39; clinically significant change 72.3% vs 54.3%
• A meta-analysis of 25 RCTs in overweight and obese adults found saffron did not significantly change body weight (-0.71 lb / -0.32 kg), BMI or waist size versus control. — overweight and obese patients in randomized controlled trials of saffron (n = 25 RCTs) Evidence A source
  Weight -0.71 lb (95% CI -6.9 to 5.5; metric: -0.32 kg, -3.15 to 2.51), p = 0.82; BMI -0.06 kg/m2; waist -0.48 in (95% CI -1.6 to 0.66; metric: -1.23 cm, -4.14 to 1.68); waist-to-hip ratio SMD -0.41 (95% CI -0.73 to -0.09)
• A 2022 dose-response meta-analysis found no change in weight (-0.26 lb / -0.12 kg, 12 trials, 841 people) or BMI with saffron, but waist size fell by 0.59 in (1.5 cm). — adults in randomized placebo-controlled trials of saffron or crocin (n = 12 trials, 841 participants (weight); 15 trials, 884 participants (waist)) Evidence A source
  Weight WMD -0.26 lb (95% CI -1.8 to 1.3; metric: -0.12 kg, -0.82 to 0.58); BMI WMD 0.01 kg/m2 (95% CI -0.17 to 0.21); fat mass % WMD -0.57 (95% CI -1.57 to 0.42); waist WMD -0.59 in (95% CI -1.1 to -0.07; metric: -1.50 cm, -2.83 to -0.18), I2 71%
• A 2020 meta-analysis of 9 trials with 595 participants found saffron reduced waist circumference by 0.87 in (2.2 cm). — participants in randomized clinical trials of saffron up to February 2019 (n = 9 articles, 12 arms, 595 participants) Evidence A source
  Waist circumference WMD -0.86 in (95% CI -1.6 to -0.13; metric: -2.18 cm, -4.05 to -0.32); fasting glucose WMD -6.54 mg/dL
• In an 8-week RCT in 60 mildly overweight women, 176.5 mg a day of the saffron extract Satiereal reduced snacking and body weight more than placebo. — healthy, mildly overweight women, 8 weeks, unrestricted calorie intake (n = 60) Evidence B source
  Greater body weight reduction than placebo (P < .01); snacking frequency lower (P < .05); size of weight change not given in the abstract
• In a meta-analysis of 34 RCTs with 1,769 adults, saffron supplements lowered self-rated depression scores by about 4.4 BDI points versus placebo, with no effect on clinician-rated scales. — adults in 34 placebo-controlled RCTs lasting at least 4 weeks (n = 1769) Evidence A source
  BDI WMD -4.39 (95% CI -6.64 to -2.15), 14 trials, I2 92.3%; BAI WMD -5.06 (-8.44 to -1.68); HDRS, HARS, POMS no effect; GRADE moderate
• In a meta-analysis of RCTs, saffron improved sleep quality scores versus placebo, lowering the Pittsburgh index by 2.1 points. — healthy adults, people with insomnia, type 2 diabetes or on methadone maintenance Evidence A source
  PSQI MD -2.14 (95% CI -2.86 to -1.42); ISI MD -2.63; RSQ MD +7.05
• In a 10-day RCT in 39 inactive young men, 300 mg of saffron powder a day blunted muscle damage markers after eccentric exercise versus placebo. — 39 non-active male university students, 10 days around one eccentric exercise session (n = 39) Evidence B source
  CK and LDH significantly lower with saffron (P < 0.0001); no loss of isometric force

Safety, limits and interactions

• A 2025 meta-analysis of head-to-head trials against SSRI antidepressants found people on saffron had 6 percentage points fewer adverse events (risk difference -0.06). — Adults with depression or anxiety in RCTs comparing saffron with SSRIs (n = 8 trials (depression)) Evidence A source
  Depression SMD 0.10 (95% CI -0.09 to 0.29), no difference; adverse events risk difference -0.06 (95% CI -0.09 to -0.04), I2 0%
• Across the saffron trials in this meta-analysis most studies reported no specific side effects. Some noted drowsiness, headache, stomach pain or increased appetite. — adults in randomized placebo-controlled trials of saffron or crocin (n = 32 studies) Evidence A source
  Side effects reported in some trials: dry mouth, restlessness, anxiety, drowsiness, constipation, headache, increased appetite, feet swelling, stomach ache, subconjunctival hemorrhage, eye irritation
• Across 9 RCTs, saffron supplements did not change kidney markers, with serum creatinine shifting by only 0.006 mg/dL versus placebo. — adults in 9 RCTs (n = 9 RCTs) Evidence A source
  Serum urea WMD -1.05 mg/dL (95% CI -5.1 to 3), creatinine WMD -0.006 mg/dL (-0.08 to 0.06), both not significant
• A 64-year-old man on the anticoagulant rivaroxaban developed nosebleeds and bleeding gums after starting a saffron supplement. — one 64-year-old man taking rivaroxaban (n = 1) Evidence D source
  Acute epistaxis and gum bleeding
• Patch testing of 110 saffron workers in Kashmir showed saffron contact dermatitis is a distinct occupational allergy in people who handle the plant. — 110 saffron workers, Kashmir Valley, India (n = 110) Evidence C source
  47.56% of positive patch reactions to plant series and saffron flower parts
• Studies of pregnant women report no harm from 250-750 mg saffron at term, but higher doses and field work with saffron are linked to more miscarriages. — pregnant women, 12 studies from inception to June 2025 (n = 12 studies) Evidence C source
  Low dose at term without adverse maternal or neonatal outcomes; higher dose or occupational exposure with elevated miscarriage risk
• In healthy volunteers given saffron tablets for 7 days, 400 mg but not 200 mg a day lowered blood pressure, with no blood toxicity seen. — healthy volunteers, saffron tablets 200 or 400 mg daily for 7 days Evidence D source
  Mean arterial and standing systolic pressure decreased at 400 mg; no significant hematological toxicity

What people believe that the data does not support

• The 2022 WFSBP and CANMAT taskforce guideline lists saffron (++) among plant products with Grade A evidence and positive directionality for unipolar depression. — Adults with unipolar depression Evidence E source
  Saffron (++); St John's wort (+++); curcumin (++); lavender (+); rhodiola not supported
• The WFSBP and CANMAT taskforce advises that such supplements be used mainly alongside standard medical care, especially in more severe mental illness. — People with psychiatric disorders considering nutraceuticals or phytoceuticals Evidence E source
  Adjunctive use within standard care recommended; product quality and standardization a key limitation
• In 25 RCTs in overweight and obese people, saffron did not significantly change body weight, with a pooled difference of only 0.71 lb (0.32 kg). — overweight and obese adults, 25 RCTs (n = 25 RCTs) Evidence A source
  Weight -0.71 lb (95% CI -6.9 to 5.5; metric: -0.32 kg, -3.15 to 2.51), p = 0.82; BMI -0.06; waist -0.48 in (-1.23 cm), all not significant; waist-to-hip ratio SMD -0.41
• The EU refused to authorize a health claim that the saffron extract Affron helps maintain a healthy mood. — EU health claim application, Affron aqueous saffron extract Evidence E source
  Status Non-authorized
• A review of 23 studies estimates 20-30% of commercial saffron is adulterated, from 3.5% in regulated EU markets to 60% in India, sometimes with carcinogenic Sudan dyes. — commercial saffron samples, 23 studies 2015-2025 (n = 23 studies) Evidence C source
  20-30% adulterated globally; 3.5% EU vs 60% India; substitutes safflower, marigold, turmeric; Sudan dyes, auramine-O

Who this works differently for

• In a 12-week RCT in overweight women with mild to moderate depression, saffron lowered Beck depression scores by 8.4 points against 3.9 with placebo. — Seventy-three women with BMI of 25 or more and mild-to-moderate depression (n = 73) Evidence B source
  BDI-II change -8.4 vs -3.9 points (95% CI of difference 1.3 to 7.7); no effect on food craving
• In a 3-month RCT of 50 smokers, crocin did not change depression or anxiety scores. — 50 smokers (n = 50) Evidence B source
  No significant difference in depression and anxiety inventories (P > 0.05)
• In a 2025 meta-analysis of 25 RCTs with 1486 people with metabolic syndrome, saffron improved blood sugar and blood pressure but did not change BMI or waist size. — patients with metabolic syndrome and related disorders (n = 25 RCTs, 1486 participants) Evidence A source
  No significant change in BMI or waist circumference; FBG WMD -6.67 mg/dL
• In an 8-week RCT in 84 patients with coronary artery disease, 30 mg a day of saffron extract cut hunger more than crocin, and weight loss was 3 lb (1.37 kg) greater than with crocin. — patients with coronary artery disease aged 40 to 65, 8 weeks, 30 mg saffron aqueous extract or 30 mg crocin or placebo daily (n = 84 randomized, 75 completed) Evidence B source
  Weight loss saffron extract vs crocin MD -3 lb (95% CI -4.8 to -1.3; metric: -1.37 kg, -2.173 to -0.571); hunger saffron extract vs crocin MD -2.384 (95% CI -4.229 to -0.539)
• In a 12-week RCT in 73 overweight women with mild to moderate depression, 30 mg a day of saffron did not reduce food craving versus placebo. — women with BMI 25 or more and mild-to-moderate depression, 12 weeks, 30 mg Crocus sativus daily (n = 73 randomized, 52 completed) Evidence B source
  No significant effect on food craving, F(1, 29) = 0.38, P = .54; depression scores fell more than placebo
• In an 8-week RCT in 75 overweight or obese people with prediabetes, 15 mg a day of saffron improved blood sugar but did not change body measurements. — overweight/obese individuals with prediabetes, 8 weeks, saffron 15 mg/d (n = 75 completed (36 saffron, 39 placebo)) Evidence B source
  FBS -7.97 mg/dL and HbA1c -0.15% vs placebo; no significant change in anthropometric measures
• Across 25 RCTs in 1,486 people with metabolic syndrome or related disorders, saffron lowered HbA1c by 0.25 percentage points and fasting glucose by 6.7 mg/dL versus placebo. — 1,486 adults with metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, NAFLD or obesity, 25 RCTs (n = 1486) Evidence A source
  HbA1c WMD -0.25% (95% CI -0.35 to -0.14); FBG -6.67 mg/dL (-10.55 to -2.78); SBP -1.15 mmHg; DBP -1.61 mmHg; LDL, HDL, BMI no change

What is still unknown

• A 2022 umbrella meta-analysis of 7 earlier meta-analyses found saffron did not significantly change clinician-rated Hamilton depression scores, even though self-rated scores fell. — Adults with depression in meta-analyses of saffron trials (n = 7 meta-analyses) Evidence A source
  HAMD ES -2.10 (95% CI -5.05 to 0.86), not significant; mixed scales ES 0.02 (95% CI -0.39 to 0.43); BDI ES -3.87 (95% CI -5.27 to -2.46)
• The 2026 GRADE meta-analysis of 34 trials with 1769 adults found no significant effect of saffron on clinician-rated depression (HDRS) or on mood (POMS), only on self-rated scales. — Adults in randomized placebo-controlled trials of saffron lasting at least 4 weeks (n = 1769) Evidence A source
  No significant effect on HDRS, HARS or POMS; self-rated BDI -4.39 points (carded elsewhere)
• In a 6-week RCT of 51 healthy adults with subclinical low mood, saffron extract did not improve depression, anxiety or fatigue scores. — 51 adult healthy individuals with subclinical neuropsychiatric symptoms (n = 51) Evidence B source
  No significant effect on composite or individual depression, anxiety and fatigue scores
• The same meta-analysis rated the evidence from 12 to 15 trials on saffron for weight and waist size as very low quality under GRADE. — adults in randomized placebo-controlled trials of saffron or crocin (n = 32 studies) Evidence A source
  GRADE very low for weight and waist circumference; low for BMI and fat mass

The bottom line

Saffron is sold for weight loss, and the trials do not support it. Across 25 trials in overweight and obese adults, weight changed by 0.71 lb (0.32 kg) against placebo, with a confidence interval running from a 6.9 lb (3.15 kg) loss to a 5.5 lb (2.51 kg) gain. The EU refused to authorize a claim that the extract Affron helps maintain a healthy mood, which means the evidence did not satisfy the regulator when it was assessed. Sleep is less clear. A meta-analysis found saffron lowered the Pittsburgh sleep index by 2.1 points against placebo, but its abstract gives neither the number of trials nor of participants and we could not read the full text, so we cannot tell how much that rests on. In a 10-day trial in 39 inactive young men, 300 mg of saffron powder a day kept blood markers of muscle damage lower after hard exercise, in groups of 12 and 15 and on markers only. Very little of the pigment gets in. Pharmacokinetic studies in non-pregnant adults put the share of oral crocin reaching the blood at about 0.04% to 2.4%, peaking 2 to 3 hours after a dose. Who should be careful. A 64-year-old man taking the blood thinner rivaroxaban developed nosebleeds and bleeding gums after starting a saffron supplement, a single case where the cause is not proven. In healthy volunteers given saffron tablets for 7 days, 400 mg a day lowered blood pressure and 200 mg did not, with no toxicity seen in the blood. In the US, supplements do not go through FDA approval the way medicines do. Because trials of saffron supplements lowered blood sugar, blood pressure and depression scores, anyone taking medicine for diabetes, blood pressure or depression, or a blood thinner, should talk to a doctor before starting one, as should anyone pregnant or with a chronic illness. For pregnancy the picture is mixed. A review of 12 studies found that in clinical trials about 250 to 750 mg given at term caused no harm to mother or baby, while other studies linked higher doses and work in saffron fields with more miscarriages. The review gives no number for what counts as high, so these data do not show a safe dose earlier in pregnancy, and they do not support taking saffron supplements during pregnancy outside a doctor's care. Across 9 short trials, serum creatinine moved by 0.006 mg/dL, so kidney markers did not change. People who pick saffron in Kashmir can get contact dermatitis from the flower, which is a skin exposure at work and says nothing about eating it. We found no official upper limit for saffron supplements from US or EU authorities, and this page has no card on the dose at which saffron becomes toxic, so it cannot say how much is too much. The last risk is what is in the jar. A review of 23 studies estimates that 20% to 30% of commercial saffron is adulterated, from 3.5% in regulated EU markets to 60% in India, with safflower, marigold or turmeric and sometimes carcinogenic Sudan dyes. Even the basic composition is uncertain, since the UK table lists no vitamin C in saffron and the USDA lists 80.8 mg per 3.5 oz (100 g).

Sources

1. sfrn-daily-r7-15 · CoFID 2021, dataset
   Saffron (CoFID 13-852, group H): energy 310 kcal; iron 11.10 mg; manganese 28.40 mg; potassium 1720 mg; vitamin C 0 mg per 100 g
   CoFID 2021, Public Health England, code 13-852 · checked 2026-09-29
2. sfrn-daily-r7-14 · USDA FoodData Central SR Legacy, dataset
   Spices, saffron (FDC 170934, SR Legacy, Spices and Herbs): portion 1 tsp = 0.7 g; per 100 g iron 11.1 mg; magnesium 264.0 mg; potassium 1724.0 mg; vitamin C 80.8 mg; energy 310 kcal
   USDA FoodData Central, SR Legacy, FDC 170934 (NDB 2037), 2019 · checked 2026-09-29
3. sfrn-daily-r7-11 · integrative review
   Studies in non-pregnant adults suggest that crocin undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism, with peak plasma concentrations occurring 2 to 3 h after oral administration. 40 The absolute bioavailability of crocin is estimated at approximately 0.04 to 2.4%, depending on formulation, co-administered food, and individual variability in intestinal and hepatic metabolism.
   Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine, 2026 · checked 2026-09-29
4. ev-safd-01 · meta-analysis of RCTs
   Available data from randomized, controlled clinical trials support that saffron is significantly more effective than placebo (g = 0.891; 95% CI: 0.369 - 1.412, p = 0.001), and non-inferior to tested antidepressant drugs (g = - 0.246; 95% CI: - 0.495 - 0.004, p = 0.053).
   Toth et al., Planta Medica, 2019 · checked 2026-10-07
5. ev-safd-05 · network meta-analysis of RCTs
   Additionally, four nutraceutical monotherapies demonstrated superior efficacy compared to ADT: EPA + DHA (0.6, 0.32-0.88), SAMe (0.52, 0.18-0.87), curcumin (0.62, -0.17 to 1.40) and saffron (0.69, 0.34-1.04).
   Psychol Med, 2025 · checked 2026-10-07
6. ev-safd-06 · meta-analysis of RCTs
   The meta-analysis found that the positive effect of antioxidant supplementation, such as magnesium (SMD = 0.16, p = 0.03), zinc (SMD = 0.59, p = 0.01), selenium (SMD = 0.33, p = 0.009), CoQ10 (SMD = 0.97, p = 0.05), tea and coffee (SMD = 1.15, p = 0.001) and crocin (MD = 6.04, p < 0.00001), on depressive status were all significant.
   J Affect Disord, 2023 · checked 2026-10-07
7. ev-safd-07 · randomized controlled trial
   On the primary outcome measure, compared to the placebo, saffron was associated with greater improvements in the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress scale - 21 depression score (β: -2.92 points; 95% confidence interval: -5.13, -0.71 points; Cohen's d = 0.39), with 72.3% of participants in the saffron group achieving a clinically significant change (a reduction of ≥ 7 points) compared to 54.3% of participants in the placebo group (P = 0.010).
   J Nutr, 2025 · checked 2026-10-07
8. ev-safw-01 · meta-analysis of RCTs
   Meta-analysis showed a nonsignificant decrease for weight (-0.32 kg; CI: -3.15, 2.51; p = 0.82), BMI (-0.06 kg/m2 ;CI:-1.04,0.93; p = .91), waist circumference (-1.23 cm; CI: -4.14, 1.68; p = .41), and hip circumference (-0.38 cm; CI: -5.99, 5.23; p = .89) and a significant decrease of waist-to-hip ratio (SMD = -0.41; CI: -0.73, -0.09; p = .01; I2 = 0%).
   Phytother Res, 2022 · checked 2026-10-07
9. ev-safw-02 · meta-analysis of RCTs
   Changes in body weight, BMI, WC, and FM% were assessed in 12 (13 effect sizes) (41, 44, 48–50, 52, 55, 57, 58, 60, 68, 69) with 841 participants (IG = 425, CG = 416), 11 (12 effect sizes) with 785 participants (IG = 396, CG = 389) (44, 48–50, 52, 57, 58, 60, 63, 68, 69), 15 (7 effect sizes) with 884 participants (IG = 447, CG = 437) (41, 44, 45, 48, 49, 52, 53, 55, 57, 60, 68, 69), and 4 (5 effect sizes) (41, 49, 57, 68) trials with 100 participants (IG = 50, CG = 50), respectively. Overall, we observed no significantly different change in weight (WMD = −0.12 kg, 95%CI: −0.82, 0.58; P = 0.732; I2 = 0.0%, P = 0.995; Figure 2N), BMI (WMD = 0.01 kg/m2, 95%CI: −0.17, 0.21; P = 0.853; I2 = 0.0%, P = 0.809; Figure 2O), and FM% (WMD = −0.57%, 95%CI: −1.57, 0.42; P = 0.262; I2 = 0.0%, P = 0.599; Figure 2Q) between the intervention and control groups. However, pooled effect sizes showed a substantial decrease in WC after saffron consumption (WMD = −1.50 cm; 95%CI: −2.83, −0.18; P = 0.026; I2 = 71.06%, P < 0.001; Figure 2P).
   Front Nutr, 2022 · checked 2026-10-07
10. ev-safw-05 · meta-analysis of RCTs
    Our study found WC was significantly reduced (WMD: -2.18 cm, 95 % CI: -4.05, -0.32) and FPG (WMD: -6.54 mg/dl, 95 % CI: -10.22, -2.85) following saffron intervention.
    Complement Ther Med, 2020 · checked 2026-10-07
11. ev-safw-07 · randomized controlled trial
    Twice a day, enrolled subjects consumed 1 capsule of Satiereal (176.5 mg extract per day (n = 31) or a matching placebo (n = 29). Caloric intake was left unrestricted during the study. At baseline, both groups were homogeneous for age, body weight, and snacking frequency. Satiereal caused a significantly greater body weight reduction than placebo after 8 weeks (P < .01). The mean snacking frequency was significantly decreased in the Satiereal group as compared with the placebo group (P < .05).
    Nutr Res, 2010 · checked 2026-10-07
12. sfrn-daily-r7-01 · meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
    A total of 34 RCTs comprising 1769 participants were included. Saffron supplementation significantly reduced scores on BDI (14 trials; 817 participants; WMD = -4.39, 95% CI: -6.64 to -2.15, p < 0.001, I2 = 92.3%) and the BAI (6 trials; 339 participants; WMD = -5.06, 95% CI: -8.44 to -1.68, p = 0.003, I2 = 94.8%). No significant effects were observed for the HDRS, HARS, or POMS.
    Nutr Neurosci, 2026 · checked 2026-09-29
13. sfrn-daily-r7-03 · meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
    The pooling of the effect sizes showed that saffron group achieve a notable treatment effect on PSQI (MD: -2.14; 95% CI: -2.86 to -1.42; P < 0.01), ISI (MD: -2.63; 95% CI: -3.70 to -2.55; P < 0.01) and RSQ (MD: 7.05; 95% CI: 1.48 to 12.62; P = 0.01) compared with placebo group.
    Sleep Med, 2022 · checked 2026-09-29
14. sfrn-daily-r7-06 · randomized controlled trial
    Saffron group received 1 capsule containing dried saffron powder (n = 12, 300 mg/d), indomethacin group received 75 mg indomethacin (n = 12, 25 mg thrice a day), and control group (n = 15) received placebo capsules, 1 week before and 3 days after eccentric exercise. ... This study shows that 10-day supplementation with 300 mg saffron significantly decreased the CK and LDH concentrations (P < 0.0001).
    Clin J Sport Med, 2015 · checked 2026-09-29
15. ev-safd-02 · meta-analysis of RCTs
    With regard to safety, participants receiving saffron had fewer adverse events than the SSRI group (risk difference: -0.06; 95% CI: -0.09, -0.04; I2: 0%).
    Shafiee et al., Nutrition Reviews, 2025 · checked 2026-10-07
16. ev-safw-04 · meta-analysis of RCTs
    Most studies did not report specific side effects, but some side effects such as dry mouth, restlessness, anxiety, daily drowsiness, morning drowsiness (42), constipation, polydipsia, headache (17, 50), increased appetite, feet swelling, stomach ache, subconjunctival-hemorrhage, swelling, redness, and burning of the eyes (54), stomach pain (65), were reported in some studies.
    Front Nutr, 2022 · checked 2026-10-07
17. sfrn-daily-r7-05 · meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
    The pooled analysis showed that saffron supplementation had no significant effect on serum urea concentrations (WMD: - 1.05 mg/dl; 95% CI - 5.1 to 3; P = 0.6, I2 = 93%, P < 0.001) and serum creatinine levels (WMD: - 0.006 mg/dl; 95% CI - 0.08 to 0.06; P = 0.8, I2 = 79%, P < 0.001) when compared to the placebo group.
    Int Urol Nephrol, 2022 · checked 2026-09-29
18. sfrn-daily-r7-08 · case report
    We herein present the case of a 64-year old male with the complaint of acute onset epistaxis and bleeding gums following the concomitant use of rivaroxaban and saffron supplement.
    Cardiovasc Hematol Disord Drug Targets, 2022 · checked 2026-09-29
19. sfrn-daily-r7-09 · case-control study
    One hundred ten saffron workers were patch-tested with 39 allergens, which included Indian standard series antigens, plant series antigens, and extracts from different parts of saffron flower. RESULTS: The allergens in Indian standard series accounted for 52.44% of positive reactions. Plant series and different parts of saffron accounted for 47.56% of the positive reactions.
    Dermatitis, 2015 · checked 2026-09-29
20. sfrn-daily-r7-12 · integrative review
    Within clinical trials, low dosage of saffron (approximately 250 to 750 milligrams at term) showed no incident of negative maternal or neonatal outcome, which significantly translates into its enhanced tolerance in controlled clinical settings, particularly for low-risk, term pregnancies.26,32 These findings were notably contradicted across studies, which reported that saffron's consumption in higher dosages or being occupationally exposed in saffron fields increases critical pregnancy-associated risks. Studies focused on women farmers in saffron fields noted elevated risk for miscarriage, particularly due to longer dermal or inhalational exposure.
    Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine, 2026 · checked 2026-09-29
21. sfrn-daily-r7-13 · toxicology review
    Previously, we examined the safety of saffron tablet (200 and 400 mg) in healthy volunteers who received tablets for 7 days. ... Our clinical findings revealed that mean arterial pressures and standing systolic blood pressure were decreased in persons who received 400 mg tablets (but not 200 mg saffron tablet) (36). We didn’t observe significant toxicity on hematological parameters.
    Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences, 2017 · checked 2026-09-29
22. ev-safd-11 · clinical practice guideline
    Phytoceuticals with supporting Grade A evidence and positive directionality included St John's wort (+++), saffron (++), curcumin (++), and lavender (+) in the treatment of unipolar depression, while rhodiola use was not supported for use in mood disorders.
    World J Biol Psychiatry, 2022 · checked 2026-10-07
23. ev-safd-12 · clinical practice guideline
    Finally, the taskforce noted that such use of nutraceuticals or phytoceuticals be primarily recommended (where supportive evidence exists) adjunctively within a standard medical/health professional care model, especially in cases of more severe mental illness.
    World J Biol Psychiatry, 2022 · checked 2026-10-07
24. sfrn-daily-r7-04 · meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
    Meta-analysis showed a nonsignificant decrease for weight (-0.32 kg; CI: -3.15, 2.51; p = 0.82), BMI (-0.06 kg/m2 ;CI:-1.04,0.93; p = .91), waist circumference (-1.23 cm; CI: -4.14, 1.68; p = .41), and hip circumference (-0.38 cm; CI: -5.99, 5.23; p = .89)
    Phytother Res, 2022 · checked 2026-09-29
25. sfrn-daily-r7-07 · EU health claims register entry
    POL-HC-08742 Affron®, aqueous saffron extract, with the sum of crocins and safranal concentration > 3,5 % and dextrin as inert carrier Affron® contributes to maintain a healthy mood by reducing the negative traits of depressive and anxiety feelings -/- Non-authorised
    EU Register on nutrition and health claims, claim POL-HC-08742, snapshot 2026-09-21 · checked 2026-09-29
26. sfrn-daily-r7-10 · systematic review
    Findings reveal that 20-30% of commercial saffron is adulterated globally, though with significant regional disparities (e.g., 3.5% in regulated EU markets vs. 60% in India), driven by economic incentives and regulatory gaps. Common fraudulent practices include substitution with safflower, marigold, or turmeric; dilution with extraneous plant materials; and the addition of hazardous synthetic dyes such as Sudan compounds and auramine-O.
    Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr, 2026 · checked 2026-09-29
27. ev-safd-09 · randomized controlled trial
    Mean depression scores in the saffron group significantly decreased compared to placebo (mean ± SD: -8.4 score ± 5.9 vs -3.9 ± 5.5; t[50] = 2; P = .007; 95% CI: 1.3-7.7).
    J Clin Pharm Ther, 2020 · checked 2026-10-07
28. ev-safd-10 · randomized controlled trial
    The primary outcome results such as nicotine dependence, depression, and anxiety inventory did not have a significant difference among the intervention groups (P > 0.05).
    Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol, 2024 · checked 2026-10-07
29. ev-safw-06 · meta-analysis of RCTs
    However, no significant changes were observed for homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference (WC).
    Phytother Res, 2025 · checked 2026-10-07
30. ev-safw-08 · randomized controlled trial
    Weight loss was significantly higher in SAE group in comparison to crocin group (MD= -1.37, CI: -2.173 to -0.571, P < 0.001). ... Feeling of hunger in SAE group decreased significantly compared to crocin group (MD= -2.384, CI: -4.229 to -0.539, P = 0.007).
    Abedimanesh et al., Journal of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Research, 2017 · checked 2026-10-07
31. ev-safw-09 · randomized controlled trial
    There was not a significant effect of saffron on food craving using repeated-measures ANOVA, F(1, 29) = 0.38, P = .54.
    J Clin Pharm Ther, 2020 · checked 2026-10-07
32. ev-safw-10 · randomized controlled trial
    However, no significant changes in anthropometric measures, lipid profile, and renal markers were observed after saffron intake compared with placebo.
    Clin Nutr ESPEN, 2019 · checked 2026-10-07
33. sfrn-daily-r7-02 · meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
    Twenty-five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in this study, involving 1486 participants with MetS and related conditions. Compared to placebo, saffron supplementation triggered significant reductions in fasting blood glucose (FBG) (WMD: -6.67 mg/dL; 95% CI: -10.55, -2.78; p = 0.001; I 2 = 50.0%), glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) (WMD: -0.25%; 95% CI: -0.35, -0.14; p < 0.001; I 2 = 0.0%)
    Phytother Res, 2025 · checked 2026-09-29
34. ev-safd-03 · meta-analysis
    However, saffron did not change the HAMD scores (ES: -2.10; 95% CI: -5.05, 0.86, p = 0.164) and mixed scores (HAM-D/BDI/DASS) (ES: 0.02; 95% CI: -0.39, 0.43,p = 0.941).
    Musazadeh et al., Pharmacological Research, 2022 · checked 2026-10-07
35. ev-safd-04 · meta-analysis of RCTs
    No significant effects were observed for the HDRS, HARS, or POMS.
    Nutr Neurosci, 2026 · checked 2026-10-07
36. ev-safd-08 · randomized controlled trial
    Saffron extract supplementation do not affect subclinical depressive symptoms, either as a composite score or individual symptom categories.
    Am J Clin Nutr, 2025 · checked 2026-10-07
37. ev-safw-03 · meta-analysis of RCTs
    For TG, TC, LDL, FBG, HbA1c, HOMA-IR, SBP, weight, WC, MDA, TAC, and ALT, the quality of the evidence was very low. Additionally, the HDL, DBP, CRP, IL-6, TNF-, BMI, FM%, and AST evidence quality was low.
    Front Nutr, 2022 · checked 2026-10-07