Saffron
Crocus sativus
World's most precious spice with clinical evidence for mood and PMS
About Saffron
Saffron is the dried stigma of the Crocus sativus flower and is the most expensive spice in the world by weight — it takes around 150,000 flowers and intensive hand-harvesting to produce a single kilogram. Beyond the kitchen, saffron is one of the most clinically validated herbs for mood. A 2019 meta-analysis of 23 randomised trials found that 30 mg daily of saffron extract was comparable to standard antidepressants for mild-to-moderate depression, with fewer side effects. Its active compounds crocin and safranal modulate serotonin levels.
Key benefits
- Meta-analysis evidence comparable to SSRIs for mild-to-moderate depression
- Clinically shown to reduce PMS symptoms by around 50%
- May reduce anxiety and support emotional balance
- Antioxidant compounds may support eye and cognitive health
How to use
Steep a small pinch (about 15-30 mg, roughly 7-10 threads) of saffron in hot water, milk, or tea for 10 minutes — the water turns golden. Drink 1-2 times daily. For mood support, the studied dose is 30 mg daily. A little goes a long way; never exceed 1.5 g per day.
Did you know?
Saffron has been treasured for over 3,500 years — Cleopatra reportedly bathed in saffron-infused mare's milk, and it was so valuable in the Middle Ages that traders caught adulterating it could be burned alive under the German Safranschou code.