Saffron Extract
Also known as: Crocus sativus, saffron stigma extract, crocin, safranal
An extract of the dried stigmas of Crocus sativus, the world's most expensive spice, standardized to crocins or safranal and used in mood, appetite, and eye formulas. Two separate meta-analyses of randomized trials found that saffron at 30 mg per day outperformed placebo and performed comparably to reference antidepressants in mild to moderate depression over six to twelve weeks. The dose is small, which makes it easy to formulate but also makes adulteration a real sourcing concern.
Research summary
Crocins and safranal are proposed to inhibit serotonin reuptake, reduce oxidative stress, and modulate HPA-axis activity.
Dosage
Daily amounts, of extract.
| Lowest studied | Typical range | Highest studied | Upper limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 mg | 30 mg | 30 mg | — |
30 mg per day of stigma extract, as a single dose or 15 mg twice daily, with or without food. Mood outcomes were measured after six to twelve weeks in the meta-analyzed trials. Very high intakes of raw saffron (grams) are toxic, so stay at the studied dose.
Standardization: ≥2% safranal or ≥3% crocins, grade dependent
Source material: stigma extract
Forms of Saffron
| Form | Typical dose | Element % | Formats | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saffron Extract | 30 mg | — | Capsule, Tablet, Gummy, Powder, Liquid | premium |
| Saffron Extract (affron) | 28 mg | — | Capsule, Tablet, Gummy, Powder, Liquid | premium |
Format suitability
- Capsule
- Powder
- Tablet
- Softgel
- Gummy
- Liquid
Small dose; use a premix for uniformity. Adds golden color and a light floral note.
Formulation notes
Generic reference for affron. Adulteration with safflower, turmeric, or dyes is common; require identity testing (ISO 3632). Note additive effects with serotonergic ingredients.
- Not for pregnancy
Sources
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