Saffron Extract (affron)
Also known as: affron, affron saffron, Crocus sativus extract (affron), Lepticrosalides
A branded saffron stigma extract standardized to 3.5% Lepticrosalides, a marker fraction of crocins and safranal, developed for low-dose mood formulas. A four-week randomized trial in adults with low mood compared 22 and 28 mg per day with placebo and found improved mood and stress-related scores only at 28 mg. Its tiny dose makes it easy to add to gummies, multi-ingredient capsules, and beverages, and it is one of the most cited saffron ingredients in the mood category.
Research summary
Crocins and safranal are proposed to inhibit serotonin reuptake and modulate HPA-axis activity, which is associated with mood support.
Dosage
Daily amounts, of extract.
| Lowest studied | Typical range | Highest studied | Upper limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28 mg | 28 mg | 28 mg | — |
28 mg once daily with or without food; 22 mg per day did not separate from placebo in the published trial. Mood effects were measured at four weeks. Doses are expressed as the extract, not as crocins.
Standardization: 3.5% Lepticrosalides (HPLC)
Source material: stigma extract
Forms of Saffron
| Form | Typical dose | Element % | Formats | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saffron Extract (affron) | 28 mg | — | Capsule, Tablet, Gummy, Powder, Liquid | premium |
| Saffron Extract | 30 mg | — | Capsule, Tablet, Gummy, Powder, Liquid | premium |
Format suitability
- Capsule
- Powder
- Tablet
- Softgel
- Gummy
- Liquid
Very small dose; use a trituration or premix for content uniformity. Imparts a faint golden color.
Formulation notes
Often combined with ashwagandha, L-theanine, or omega-3s. Note potential additive effects with serotonergic ingredients such as 5-HTP.
- Not for pregnancy
Sources
Related ingredients
Ashwagandha Root Extract (KSM-66)
BotanicalA branded, root-only ashwagandha extract standardized to at least 5% withanolides.
Typical: 300–600 mg
Ashwagandha Root Extract (≥5% Withanolides)
BotanicalA generic, non-branded ashwagandha root extract standardized to at least 5% withanolides.
Typical: 300–600 mg
L-Theanine
Amino acidAn amino acid found naturally in green tea that promotes a calm, focused state without sedation.
Typical: 100–200 mg
Chamomile Flower Extract
BotanicalAn extract of German chamomile flowers standardized to apigenin, the flavone behind much of its calming reputation.
Typical: 220–1,100 mg
5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan)
Amino acidThe immediate precursor to serotonin, extracted commercially from Griffonia simplicifolia seeds.
Typical: 50–300 mg