Saffron is the dried stigma of the Crocus sativus plant native to the Middle East. And is the world’s most expensive culinary spice largely due to the way it must be grown and harvested (by hand).
As a nootropic, Saffron has been used for thousands of years as an anxiolytic, sedative, and antidepressant.[i]
Today, Saffron is used to help manage appetite, for energy and stamina, anxiety, and is a very effective antidepressant.
Recent studies show Saffron as effective as some popular prescription antidepressants. And can even help alleviate the sexual dysfunction caused by these drugs.
I first became aware of Saffron when researching this ingredient included in Performance Lab Vision.
And then noticed in the last year that it was appearing on shelves as a standalone supplement in the ‘brain health’ section of local vitamin and health food shops.
Here we’ll explore how Saffron benefits your brain.
Saffron helps:
- Anxiety & depression: Saffron extracts (crocin & safranal) inhibit the uptake of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain which helps improve mood.
- Alzheimer’s & dementia: Saffron inhibits the deposit of amyloid-β which is associated with the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Saffron also inhibits the breakdown of acetylcholine (acetylcholinesterase) just like the current medication (donepezil) approved to treat Alzheimer’s.
- Neuroprotectant: Crocin and safranal which are unique carotenoids in Saffron make it a potent antioxidant. Scavenging free radicals which reduces inflammation, preventing apoptosis, and protecting brain cells and mitochondria.[ii]
Table of Contents
Overview
Saffron (Crocus sativus) as a nootropic is the dried crimson stigma of the C. sativus flower cultivated primarily in Iran.
The earliest reference to Saffron goes back to around 2,300 BC from Sargon, founder of the Akkadian empire. Sargon was born in a village on the shores of the Euphrates called Azupiranu (city of Saffron).[iii]
Since then, documentation of Saffron use over the last 4,000 years for at least 90 illnesses has been uncovered.
Saffron takes a long time to germinate from seed and 3 years for the plant to flower. Once it blooms in mid-Autumn, the flowers must be picked carefully by hand within 1 – 2 weeks.
Each Crocus sativus plant produces 3 – 4 flowers per season. Each flower produces a 3-pronged style, each prong terminating in a vivid crimson stigma. Saffron is the dried stigma of Crocus sativus.
This labor-intensive production method makes Saffron the most expensive culinary spice in the world.
Saffron contains the metabolites crocin, picrocrocin, safranal, and the antioxidants lycopene and zeaxanthin as well as Vitamin B12 all which provide its medicinal value.[iv]
As a nootropic, Saffron may be used for depression, PMS symptoms, post-partum depression, memory, appetite suppression, and preventing neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
How does Saffron work in the brain?
Saffron boosts brain health and function in several ways. But two in particular stand out.
- Saffron boosts mood. Recent studies suggest that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), Nerve Growth Factor, and cAMP Response Binding Protein (CREB) all play a role in anxiety and depression.
Further research shows that Saffron has a significant effect on BDNF, NFG and cAMP levels in the brain.[v] Which likely explains why Saffron is so effective in treating teenage anxiety and depression.
One study in 2018 had 80 participants aged 12 – 16 years with anxiety and depression try Saffron extract (Affron®) 14 mg or a placebo for 8 weeks.
The study concluded that Saffron extract was effective in relieving the symptoms of separation anxiety, social phobia and depression compared to placebo.[vi]
Researchers in the psychology department at Murdoch University in Perth conducted a systematic analysis of every clinical trial they could find for high-quality, randomized, double-blind studies using Saffron, a placebo and antidepressant meds as controls in humans (not animals).
The team concluded that clinical trials support the use of Saffron for the treatment of mild to moderate depression.[vii]
- Saffron for preventing Alzheimer’s. One of the most common symptoms in Alzheimer’s patients is depression.
And doctors commonly prescribe antidepressants for treatment. Including drugs like sertraline (Zoloft®).[viii] Despite the fact that these meds don’t work for Alzheimer’s disease and come with a host of side effects.[ix]
An alternative treatment is obviously needed. So researchers set up a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 46 Alzheimer’s patients. The patients were given 15 mg of Saffron twice daily or placebo for 16 weeks.
The results of this trial showed Saffron produced a significantly better reduction in behavioral and psychological symptoms than placebo. And concluded, “Saffron is both safe and effective in mild to moderate Alzheimer’s”.[x]
The acetylcholinesterase inhibitor donepezil (Aricept®) is also prescribed to Alzheimer’s patients. For increasing acetylcholine which has been found to be low in these patients.
A 22-week, randomized, double-blind trial with 54 Alzheimer’s patients was conducted to compare donepezil with Saffron. Patients received either 15 mg of Saffron twice per day or 5 mg of donepezil twice per day for the extent of the trial.
This phase II study found Saffron extract was as effective as donepezil in the treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer’s. But Saffron did not produce the side effect of vomiting.[xi]
How things go bad
Depression is a growing health problem. With over 10% of Americans taking prescription antidepressants. Of whom 90% experience at least one adverse effect. Ranging from sexual dysfunction to convulsion to bleeding disorders.
Antidepressant use can result in:
↓ Abnormal bleeding
↓ Agitation, aggression, anxiety, and delirium
↓ Confusion, convulsions and even death
↓ Decreasing memory, delusional thinking
↓ Hallucinations, headaches, and heart attacks
↓ Insomnia, lethargy, nightmares, and panic attacks
↓ Sedation, impaired driving, slow speech
↓ Sexual dysfunction, priapism
↓ Panic attacks, paranoia, suicidal thoughts, violent behavior
↓ Serotonin Syndrome, withdrawal symptoms
A growing database of studies and user reviews show that Saffron helps treat depression without the risky side effects of prescription antidepressants.
Saffron has also been shown to be effective with other conditions for which antidepressants are prescribed. Including anxiety, Alzheimer’s, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
We even have reports of Saffron reversing the sexual dysfunction caused by using prescription antidepressants.
Saffron benefits
To experience Saffron’s nootropic value you’ll need to use more than a sprinkling of the spice from your local supermarket.
Studies show Saffron could be an alternative to some popular antidepressant meds.[xii] And for anxiety.[xiii]
Another study with 18 – 45-year-old women suffering from post-partum depression showed Saffron effective in reducing depression.[xiv]
And a group of women aged 18 – 45 dealing with Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) found that Saffron was effective in relieving depression during two menstrual cycles (cycles 3 and 4).[xv]
Saffron is a smooth muscle relaxant and helps lower blood pressure. Likely because of its inhibitory effect on histamine H1 receptors, stimulatory effect on ß2-adrenoceptors, and antagonist effect on muscarinic receptors.[xvi]
Saffron inhibits acetylcholinesterase which increases acetylcholine in your brain. Improving brain signaling and helping learning and memory.[xvii]
Saffron inhibits the deposition of amyloid β-peptide (Aβ) fibrils which has been implicated in Alzheimer’s.[xviii]
Several human studies show Saffron as effective as some popular antidepressants in treating mild to moderate anxiety and depression.[xix]
Some of the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease originate from under-utilization of dopamine in the substantia nigra area of the brain. Studies show Saffron helps protect the substantia nigra dopamine neurons associated with Parkinson’s.[xx]
Newly published studies show Saffron helps protect your eyes from ultraviolet blue light radiation (UV-B). And flicker sensitivity from glaring monitors and headlights.[xxi]
Saffron improves the oxygen and nutrient supply required for healthy eyes. By boosting blood flow in the retina and choroid of your eyes.[xxii]
How does Saffron feel?
Many neurohackers report supplementing with Saffron has helped them stop eating junk food, avoid nighttime snacking, and they’re no longer obsessed with thinking about food all the time.
Saffron has been proven to help with Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). Vision may be sharper. And you can see a line or two further down the Snellen chart at your next eye appointment.
Glare from headlights during nighttime driving and flicker from monitors is no longer a problem.
You may experience an improvement in mood when supplementing with Saffron. No longer over-reacting, and work-related stress now feels like you are again in control.
Many neurohackers report an increase in energy and better libido with Saffron.
Feeling tired and emotional is a thing of the past. You’re back to your bright, positive, happy self!
Saffron Clinical Research
Clinical research into the efficacy of Saffron is encouraging. But trial lengths have typically been limited to 4 – 6 weeks. And sample sizes are relatively small (30 – 40 people).
And keep in mind of the potential for bias because most clinical trials with humans have been conducted in Iran. Which produces nearly 90% of saffron for the world market. But these are still high-quality studies.
Saffron as good as Prozac
A double-blind, randomized trial with 40 adult outpatients suffering from major depression was conducted at the University of Tehran. The study compared Saffron petals with fluoxetine (Prozac®) for the treatment of depression.
Patients were given 15 mg of Saffron petals in the morning and evening, or 10 mg fluoxetine morning and evening for 8 weeks.
The study concluded that Saffron petals were as effective as fluoxetine in the treatment of mild to moderate depression. The remission rate was 25% in both groups with no significant differences in side effects.[xxiii]
Saffron for Alzheimer’s Disease
There is increasing evidence to suggest that Saffron could be used in the management of Alzheimer’s Disease.
In one Iranian study, 54 adults aged 55 year or older with Alzheimer’s participated in a 22-week, double-blind trial. Patients were randomly assigned 30 mg per day of Saffron (15 mg twice per day) or 10 mg per day of donepezil (Aricept®) (5 mg twice per day).
The study found that Saffron was as effective as the drug donepezil in the treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer’s after 22 weeks.[xxiv]
Other research shows that Saffron may inhibit the aggregation of amyloid-β in the human brain and may therefore be useful in Alzheimer’s.[xxv]
46 patients with Alzheimer’s volunteered for a 16-week, double-blind trial. Patients were randomly assigned 15 mg of Saffron twice per day or a placebo for the 16-week study.
After 16 weeks, Saffron produced a significantly better outcome on cognitive function than placebo.
The study concluded, “This double-blind, placebo-controlled study suggests that at least in the short-term, Saffron is both safe and effective in mild to moderate Alzheimer’s.”[xxvi]
Saffron for ADHD
A randomized double-blind study was conducted with 54 children 6-17 years old who were diagnosed with ADHD.
The children received 20 – 30 mg methylphenidate or 20 – 30 mg Saffron per day for 6 weeks. Symptoms were assessed using the Teacher and Parent Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Rating Scale-IV (ADHD-RS-IV) at baseline and weeks 3 and 6.
The researchers found no significant difference in reduction of ADHD symptoms between the two groups. And concluded, “Short-term therapy with saffron capsule showed the same efficacy compared with methylphenidate.”[xxvii]
Saffron Recommended Dosage
Recommended dose of Saffron is 25 – 30 mg twice per day for mild to moderate depression.
Clinical studies have evaluated doses ranging from 20 – 400 mg per day of Saffron.
Dosages up to 1.5 g per day of Saffron are thought to be safe.[xxviii] With toxic effects reported for 5 g doses.
As with many nootropics, more is NOT better when using Saffron. Some research shows that dosages above 1.5 g of Saffron can be extremely toxic.
Saffron Side Effects
Genuine Saffron is non-toxic and well-tolerated by most people when used at the recommended dosage.
Some reported side effects of Saffron include headaches, nausea, dizziness, vomiting, and mania (esp. if you are bipolar). Saffron can aggravate asthma symptoms.
5 g of Saffron are associated with toxic effects. And very high doses of Saffron (10 – 20 g) can be deadly.
No drug interactions have been reported. But interactions with anti-aggregating drugs are theoretically possible.
Do NOT use Saffron if you have a bleeding disorder.
Type of Saffron to buy
Saffron as a nootropic is typically sold in capsules.
Most individual Saffron supplements on the market are standardized (for 0.3% safranal) usually with 88.5 mg ‘Saffron extract’.
For nootropic use, look for supplements guaranteed to contain a patented version of Saffron extract. Otherwise, you’ll not likely experience the cognitive benefits of this nootropic for reasons I’ll go into in a minute.
NOTE: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Affron®: Manufactured by PharmActive Biotech Products in Madrid, Spain and not easily found in Saffron products sold in the USA. But here’s one by BCN Health: Saffron Ultra (Amazon)
(Satiereal®: Made by PLT Health Solutions in Morristown, NJ and included in select Saffron products like this one by Life Extension: Optimized Saffron (Amazon)
Safranal®: Manufactured by Sigma-Aldrich and included in some Saffron supplements like this one by 1 Body: Saffron 8825 (Amazon)
Saffron is also included in much smaller amounts in some vison/eye formulas. While extremely effective for vision health, it’s not enough for much cognitive benefit.
For example, Performance Lab Vision contains 1 mg of Saffron extract. Which I’ve found very effective for reducing glare from computer screens and headlights during nighttime driving. And reducing eye fatigue from monitor flicker. But the dosage in this supplement is too low for any real cognitive benefit.
Keep in mind that Saffron is the most valuable medicinal food plant on the planet. Which makes it a primary target by unscrupulous marketers for adulteration.
Common adulterants include mixing Saffron with things like beet, pomegranate fibers, and red-dyed silk fibers to decrease the cost of Saffron.
Sometimes the flowers of other plants, including safflower, marigold, arnica and tinted grasses are fraudulently mixed with genuine Saffron stigmas.
The common mislabeling of turmeric (curcuma longa) as “Indian saffron”, “American saffron”, or “Mexican saffron” can easily be mistaken as genuine Saffron.
When Saffron is used for therapeutic purposes such as a nootropic supplement, adulteration will make it completely useless or even harmful.[xxix]
Before you buy your Saffron supplement make sure you check that it’s a reputable supplement manufacturer who tests all their raw ingredients and encapsulated product.
This is a classic case of discounted or cheap Saffron is not a bargain. But something else entirely. Buyer beware!
Nootropics Expert Recommendation
Saffron 25 – 30 mg twice a day
I recommend using Saffron as a nootropic supplement.
Your body does not make Saffron on its own. So to get its benefits you must take it as a supplement.
Saffron is especially helpful for suffering from anxiety and depression. Studies show Saffron to be as effective as some popular antidepressants but without the side effects.
If you are currently using antidepressants, Saffron may help alleviate the sexual dysfunction caused by these drugs.
Saffron seems to be an effective way to control appetite. No snacking between meals and you’re no longer obsessed about food.
Saffron has the added benefit of more energy and stamina to help you through your day.
You can safely take up to 200 mg of Saffron daily if needed. But dosed 100 mg at a time. Be familiar with the associated side effects of higher doses of Saffron.
For nootropic use, choose a patented form of Saffron supplement such as the ones I’ve described above under “Type of Saffron to Buy”.
Saffron is also a very effective vision supplement. Driving at night is easier on your eyes. And the flicker caused by screens and monitors won’t leave you with eye fatigue later in the day.
For a great vision supplement, I highly recommend Performance Lab Vision.
For nootropic benefit look for genuine, verified pure Saffron or Saffron extract (standardized to 0.3 or 0.1% safranal).
[i] Hosseinzadeh H., Noraei N.B. “Anxiolytic and hypnotic effect of Crocus sativus aqueous extract and its constituents, crocin and safranal, in mice.” Phytotherapy Research. 2009 Jun;23(6):768-74 (source)
[ii] Mashmoul M., Azlan A., Khaza’ai H., Yusof B.N.M., Noor S.M. “Saffron: A Natural Potent Antioxidant as a Promising Anti-Obesity Drug” Antioxidants (Basel). 2013 Dec; 2(4): 293–308. (source)
[iii] Gadd C.J. “In: The dynasty of Agade and the Guitan invasion.” Edwards I.E.S, Gadd C.J, Hammand N.G.L, editors. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press; 1971. pp. 417–63. (source)
[iv] Srivastava R., Ahmed H., Dixit R.K., Dharamveer, Saraf S.A. “Crocus sativus L.: A comprehensive review” Pharmacognosy Review 2010 Jul-Dec; 4(8): 200–208. (source)
[v] Ghasemi T., Abnous K., Vahdati F., Mehri S., Razavi B.M., Hosseinzadeh H. “Antidepressant Effect of Crocus sativus Aqueous Extract and its Effect on CREB, BDNF, and VGF Transcript and Protein Levels in Rat Hippocampus.” Drug Research (Stuttgart). 2015 Jul;65(7):337-43. (source)
[vi] Lopresti A.L., Drummond P.D., Inarejos-García A.M., Prodanov M. “affron®, a standardised extract from saffron (Crocus sativus L.) for the treatment of youth anxiety and depressive symptoms: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.” Journal of Affective Disorders. 2018 May;232:349-357 (source)
[vii] Lopresti A.L., Drummond P.D. “Saffron (Crocus sativus) for depression: a systematic review of clinical studies and examination of underlying antidepressant mechanisms of action.” Human Psychopharmacology. 2014 Nov;29(6):517-27. (source)
[viii] Modrego P.J. “Depression in Alzheimer's disease. Pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment.” Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease 2010;21(4):1077-87. (source)
[ix] Banerjee S., Hellier J., Romeo R., et al. “Study of the use of antidepressants for depression in dementia: the HTA-SADD trial - a multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of sertraline and mirtazapine.” Health Technology Assessment. 2013 Feb;17(7):1-166. (source)
[x] Akhondzadeh S., Sabet M.S., Harirchian M.H., Togha M., Cheraghmakani H., Razeghi S., Hejazi S.Sh., Yousefi M.H., Alimardani R., Jamshidi A., Zare F., Moradi A. “Saffron in the treatment of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease: a 16-week, randomized and placebo-controlled trial.” Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics. 2010 Oct;35(5):581-8. (source)
[xi] Akhondzadeh S., Shafiee Sabet M., Harirchian M.H., Togha M., Cheraghmakani H., Razeghi S., Hejazi S.S., Yousefi M.H., Alimardani R., Jamshidi A., Rezazadeh S.A., Yousefi A., Zare F., Moradi A., Vossoughi A. “A 22-week, multicenter, randomized, double-blind controlled trial of Crocus sativus in the treatment of mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease.” Psychopharmacology (Berlin). 2010 Jan;207(4):637-43. (source)
[xii] Noorbala A.A., Akhondzadeh S., Tahmacebi-Pour N., Jamshidi A.H. “Hydro-alcoholic extract of Crocus sativus L. versus fluoxetine in the treatment of mild to moderate depression: a double-blind, randomized pilot trial.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2005 Feb 28;97(2):281-4 (source)
[xiii] Mazidi M., Shemshian M., Mousavi S.H., Norouzy A., Kermani T., Moghiman T., Sadeghi A., Mokhber N., Ghayour-Mobarhan M, Ferns G.A. Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine. 2016 Jun 1;13(2):195-9 (source)
[xiv] Kashani L., Eslatmanesh S., Saedi N., Niroomand N., Ebrahimi M., Hosseinian M., Foroughifar T., Salimi S., Akhondzadeh S. “Comparison of Saffron versus Fluoxetine in Treatment of Mild to Moderate Postpartum Depression: A Double-Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial.” Pharmacopsychiatry. 2017 Mar;50(2):64-68. (source)
[xv] Hosseini M., Kashani L., Aleyaseen A., Ghoreishi A., Rahmanpour H., Zarrinara A.R., Akhondzadeha S. “Crocus sativus L. (saffron) in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome: a double‐blind, randomised and placebo‐controlled trial” International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology 06 February 2008 (source)
[xvi] Mokhtari-Zaer A., Khazdair M.R., Boskadbady M.H. “Smooth muscle relaxant activity of Crocus sativus (saffron) and its constituents: possible mechanisms” Avidenna Journal of Phytomedicine 2015 Sep-Oct; 5(5): 365–375. (source)
[xvii] Geromichalos G.D., Lamari F.N., Papandreou M.A., Trafalis D.T., Margarity M., Papageorgiou A., Sinakos Z. “Saffron as a source of novel acetylcholinesterase inhibitors: molecular docking and in vitro enzymatic studies.” Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry. 2012 Jun 20; 60(24):6131-8. (source)
[xviii] Papandreou M.A., Kanakis C.D., Polissiou M.G., Efthimiopoulos S., Cordopatis P., Margarity M., Lamari F.N. “Inhibitory activity on amyloid-beta aggregation and antioxidant properties of Crocus sativus stigmas extract and its crocin constituents.” Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry 2006 Nov 15; 54(23):8762-8. (source)
[xix] Khazadair M.R., Boskabady M.H., Hosseini M., Rezaee R., Tsatsakis A.M. “The effects of Crocus sativus (saffron) and its constituents on nervous system: A review” Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine. 2015 Sep-Oct; 5(5): 376–391 (source)
[xx] Purushothuman S., Nandasena C., Peoples C.L., El Massri N., Johnstone D.M., Mitrofanis J., Stone J. “Saffron pre-treatment offers neuroprotection to Nigral and retinal dopaminergic cells of MPTP-Treated mice.” Journal of Parkinson’s Disease. 2013; 3(1):77-83. (source)
[xxi] Natoli R., Zhu Y., Valter K., Bisti S., Eells J., Stone J. “Gene and noncoding RNA regulation underlying photoreceptor protection: microarray study of dietary antioxidant saffron and photobiomodulation in rat retina.” Molecular Vision. 2010 Sep 3;16:1801-22. (source)
[xxii] Xuan B., Zhou Y.H., Li N., Min Z.D., Chiou G.C. “Effects of crocin analogs on ocular blood flow and retinal function.” Journal of Ocular Pharmacology & Therapeutics. 1999 Apr;15(2):143-52. (source)
[xxiii] Akhondzadeh Basti A., Moshiri E., Noorbala A.A., Jamshidi A.H., Abbasi S.H., Akhondzadeh S. “Comparison of petal of Crocus sativus L. and fluoxetine in the treatment of depressed outpatients: a pilot double-blind randomized trial.” Progress in Neuropsychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry. 2007 Mar 30;31(2):439-42. (source)
[xxiv] Akhondzadeh S., Shafiee Sabet M., Harirchian M.H., Togha M., Cheraghmakani H., Razeghi S., Hejazi S.S., Yousefi M.H., Alimardani R., Jamshidi A., Rezazadeh S.A., Yousefi A., Zare F., Moradi A., Vossoughi A. “A 22-week, multicenter, randomized, double-blind controlled trial of Crocus sativus in the treatment of mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease.” Psychopharmacology (Berlin). 2010 Jan;207(4):637-43. (source)
[xxv] Al-Snafi A.E. “The pharmacology of Crocus sativus- A review” IOSR Journal of Pharmacy Volume 6, Issue 6 Version. 3 (June 2016), PP. 08-38 (source)
[xxvi] Akhondzadeh S., Sabet M.S., Harirchian M.H., Togha M., Cheraghmakani H., Razeghi S., Hejazi S.Sh., Yousefi M.H., Alimardani R., Jamshidi A., Zare F., Moradi A. “Saffron in the treatment of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease: a 16-week, randomized and placebo-controlled trial.” Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics. 2010 Oct;35(5):581-8. (source)
[xxvii] Baziar, S., Aqamolaei, A., Khadem, E., Mortazavi, S. H., Naderi, S., Sahebolzamani, E., Mortezaei, A., Jalilevand, S., Mohammadi, M. R., Shahmirzadi, M., & Akhondzadeh, S. (2019). Crocus sativus L. Versus Methylphenidate in Treatment of Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Randomized, Double-Blind Pilot Study. Journal of child and adolescent psychopharmacology, 29(3), 205–212 (source)
[xxviii] Tóth B., et. al. “The Efficacy of Saffron in the Treatment of Mild to Moderate Depression: A Meta-analysis” Planta Medica 2019; 85(01): 24-31 (source)
[xxix] Gohari A.R., Saeidnia S., Mahmoodabadi M.K., “An overview on saffron, phytochemicals, and medicinal properties” Pharmacognosy Review 2013 Jan-Jun; 7(13): 61–66. (source)
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Hello David,
Can I take Saffron with Adderall? Or there can be some interactions?
Thanks.
Nino Saffron may potentiate the action of Adderall.
Hello David,
Thanks for your reply.
So if I understand well it’s not a problem right?
It should not be a problem and may be beneficial. But only if it works for you.
Hello David,
Can I use Saffron Saffr’Activ® (Crocus sativus L.), 30 mg. x 2 per day in total 60 mg per day + L-Tryptophan 500 mg at night + 1000 mg of L-Tyrosine per day together?
You opinion will be highly appreciated as I want to use it safely without causing Serotonin / Dopamine disbalance as well as not provoke anxiety.
Thanks for your advice in advance.
Alan, you can safely use up to 60 mg Saffron per day.
Keep in mind that Saffron acts more like dopamine and norepinephrine inhibitor so it does not increase the physical levels for those neurotransmitters. There should be no problem using it with either of those supplements. It just may potentiate how they work in your brain.
Thanks a lot for your quick reply David.
I am pretty new in Nootropics, and I have one concern also about L-Tryptophan. On some medical websites, they say that L-Tryptophan might cause sexual problems, but they don’t precise what kind of sexual problems. So based on your experience as well as based on the research, if there is any, is it a concern? Or can this side effect depend on dose?
I am very concerned about taking any supplement which has sexual side effects and hope you do understand my worries.
Thanks a lot once again.
Alan, it is SSRIs that cause sexual problems. Not L-Tryptophan.
But serotonin and dopamine must be in balance. Excess serotonin will depress dopamine which will have a negative effect on sexual function and desire.
Hi.
I have 2 questions : )
I found Saffron 88.5 mg. 240 capsules. From Nutricost. Would like to know if it is a good product?
Is it too much to take Saffron for mood if I am already taking Mind Lab Pro and Omegas (DHA, EPA)?
Thank you
Tatiana, I like some of Nutricost’s supplements but not their Saffron. Their extract is missing one key compound called crocin. And it lacks user reviews saying it even works.
It is difficult to find a high quality Saffron extract since it has become popular and it is easy to fake. You’ll be better off by trying one of the extract I link to above under “Type of Saffron to Buy”.
And it should not be a problem combining your Saffron supplement with Mind Lab Pro or an Omega-3. It should compliment the use of those supplements.
Hello David. New to discovering your website. I had (falsely) assumed you’d be anti-pharmaceutical, but I read your bio about Ritalin use.
I’ve been on pharmaceuticals (for mood etc) for few years and wondering what effects are long-term. I had one Dr. say they are fine for unlimited long-term. I had another Dr. that looked me in the eye, with a serious tone that said after years of use I should really consider coming off.
Part of me thinks certain brains need constant medication and tolerance and/or damage is not an issue. Part of me feels they probably become ineffective and wear out brain receptors causing more depression than had before use. What are your thoughts on LONG TERM use on these types of meds?
Scott, it depends on the med. Ritalin has been used since the 1950’s and has a long track record so we know what it does and its safety record.
But other meds like SSRIs and benzos do horrible brain damage. And some of it is not repairable. Desensitizing receptors is only one of the problems. Many of them also mess with gene expression and ion channels. Once you mess with how your genes work and ion channels you’re pretty much out of luck. But you can restore dysfunctional receptors.
How long before you fully feel effects of saffron for anxiety and depression? I’ve just started Affron, 30mg split into two doses, all I can tell for sure is slight sedative effect. I was expecting it to be more stimulating.
Saffron will help with stamina more than as a stimulant. But you should experience the effects of this supplement within the first couple of days.
The problem is there is a HUGE problem with adulteration and unscrupulous companies putting out bad product. I suggest checking the manufacturer of the Saffron you have and find out if it is genuine Saffron.
Thanks for your reply. I have already been feeling positive effect of Saffron after a few days. I’m using good quality Affron extract. I wanted to ask, what would be your thoughts on combining Saffron with either Rhodiola or Ashwaghandha? I’ve seen supplements combining them, or even all three.
Should not be a problem.
Hi David! On smart drugs article you said “antihistamines promote drowsiness”
Saffron – inhibits H1 receptors
Quercetin – natural antihistamine
1) Do they make you drowsy more than they stimulate?
2) To complicate things even more we have histamine triggering foods such as avocado, strawberries etc. The same rule works here?
Can you answer my 2 questions please? Thank you for your hard work!
Michael, it’s the drugs that are antihistamines that can cause drowsiness. Natural supplements like Saffron and Quercetin only offer that as one “side effect” or other benefit and it’s not nearly as powerful as a drug designed for that purpose.
Hello
Would you say there is a big difference between Saffron extract and the patented Affron? Do both increase dopamine and norepinephrine?
Jman, the regular extract and patenting version will provide the same benefits. But the advantage of using a patented version is the quality it typically better and you can be sure the what’s on the label matches what’s in the capsule.
Thanks. Do you think I can take Saffron long-term? Any withdrawal if you stop?
Jman, you should not experience withdrawal after stopping Saffron. But its safety using it long-term is unknown as it is for most supplements. No one has done put up the 10’s of millions to conduct the studies. Most of these supplements are considered non-toxic and safe to use at recommended adult dosages. Other than that the best thing you can do is keep on eye on your liver and kidney numbers each time your doctor orders lab tests.
Hi David,
I’m considering trying Methylene Blue but saw some reactions listed online to Dopamine, Levadopa, 5-HTP, and other MAO-I’s. I’m currently taking saffron with coffee and theanine. Do you think there is a concern with adding the methylene blue?
Thanks,
Thomas
Thomas, Methylene Blue will likely potentiate the effects of Saffron.
Hi David,
What is recommended dose of saffron for ADHD?
Most of the product has 0.3% safranal and EXTRACT 88.5 mg while speaking about 25-30mg do you mean extract? or Safranol?
If safranal, then I would like to ask you a question, how is this extract of 88,5 mg has 25-30mg of Safranol, they would need to use 10g of saffron to make one pill which could contain 30mg of Safranol, as I have ADHD I would like to know the correct dose I should take.
Also, I would like to mention that I was taking saffron
Double Wood Supplements – Saffron extract
At one moment I was taking 3 pills 2 times a day and I was feeling incredible effect but with a dose of 2 pills a day not much.
Could you clarify this dose me, please?
Pawel, I am referring to the recommended dosage of 25-30mg Saffron extract. NOT Safranal. I realized most Saffron extracts on the market are around 88 mg which is high but it’s not toxic. Any higher than that is not recommended.
The same dosage would apply to ADHD as well. 10 – 20 grams of Saffron would be extremely expensive and would kill you.
Hello
Do you think you can mix Saffron + PharmaGABA?
Yes you can use both.
Hi David! So basicly Saffron is the only natural Ritalin without prescription right?
I fired 2 psychiatrist, hope third one will diagnose my ADD properly. Thank you!
Benjamin, Saffron is the closest to the mechanism of action of Ritalin. But it is not a direct replacement for it. Ritalin will be more potent.
Hi David,
Thank you for your fantastic site.
I have the Double Wood Saffron Extract, which I chose because it contains one of the patented versions you mentioned. But reading the label again I’m confused. It says each capsule contains:
Saffron Extract (Std. to 0.3% Safranal) 88.5mg.
So does that mean that only 0.3% of the 88.5mg – i.e. a tiny amount – is Safranal? Confused!
Sarah
Sarah, safranal is one of the main active components found in Saffron. But you need very little of it to be effective. Any Saffron extract (standardized to 0.3 or 0.1% safranal) will work. And Double Wood is a trustworthy company as well. Sounds like you got the right supplement. And 85 mg total is a little more than my recommendation of 25 – 30 mg twice a day. With your supplement you would take it once per day.
When I look into Canada product there’s is AOR Saffron. I know they are normaly good quality products.
In their Saffron products they said :
Crocus sativus extract (2% safranal)
It is not .2 % but 2%
I am a bit mix up here, is it too much or good ?
And were we can buy Saffron strang/stigmas to put in hot water that are real one ? Thanks to you !
Karine, safranal is the main active compound found in Saffron which is what you want. It is 5 grams (not mg) of Saffron which are associated with toxic effects. And very high doses of Saffron (10 – 20 g) can be deadly.
I forgot to say that it is 15 mg of Crocus sativus extract (2% safranal)
Happy to have found out it is good !
Thanks you so so much !
Hi David,
Just wanted to give a disclaimer for everyone reading this thread:
UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES take Saffron Extract with PEA (Phenylethylamine). I tested the waters with combing a mere 50mg of PEA with 88.3mg saffron extract (standardized 0.3% safranal), where I took the saffron 8 hours earlier. After about 10 minutes, I had a full blown panic attack. I felt like I had taken an overdose of amphetamines along with a red bull. My heart rate skyrocketed and I felt like I was going to die. Luckly, I had Xanax on hand, and took 0.5mg. The comination of the Xanax and a walk outside brought me back to ground level about 30 minutes later.
Additional information: I was in a fasted state (approx. 23 hours since last meal), and had eaten nothing that would cause a “cheese” effect. Also, I had taken 400mg of PEA x3 daily with all of my other supplements besides saffron the day before, with no adverse side effects.
My reaction suggests suggests that PEA should not be taken with Methylphenidate, since Saffron acts very similarly. And I would also be even more hesitant when taking it with amphetamines of any kind, since they actively cause the release of neurotransmitters instead of simply preventing their re-uptake – the overstimulation I fear could be unbearable.
I’m not sure if you are saying the common standardized extract of saffron 88.5 mg is good or not. I have some of that on hand but if it’s not going to work, I’ll buy something else. Thanks for the great information!
Hi David, I just reread your two articles on anxiety. I have recently realized via therapy that my anxiety plays a much larger role than depression. As such I think it is the cause of many of my health conditions, particularly the insomnia.
Your article mentions that supplements that increase seratonin like 5-HTP and L-Tryptophan are not good for anxiety. Does saffron increase seratonin? I have been taking two 85 mg of saffron each night for sleep. Thanks.
Gary, serotonin in excess may cause problems like anxiety. That cannot happen by using Saffron.
Hello
I have seen some write that Saffron increases Serotonin, but you don’t. What is right?
Jman, Saffron does not physically increase levels of serotonin in the brain. Only L-Tryptophan and 5-HTP does that.
But Saffron affects the levels of norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin by decreasing the activity of acetylcholine esterase and inhibiting the activity of monoamine oxidase in the brain. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5787996/
David,
Since Saffron does not increase serotonin physically, can we add 5HTP with it.
If yes what dosage would be good for anxiety. We currently take 28mg of saffron. I am looking at a supplement “Cerevive”. Will that help?
Sushmita, 5-HTP 50 or 100 mg should not be a problem with Saffron. But don’t be surprise if 5-HTP quits working after 4 – 6 weeks. If that happens use L-Tryptophan instead.
David, did you see the study that compared saffron efficacy to methylphenidate? When you get a chance, check it out: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30741567/
Ron, great find and it makes perfect sense as well when you look at the mechanism of action for Saffron. Thanks. I’ll update this review to include this study. Much appreciated.
I’m taking a stimulant, non-stimulant, and antidepressant for adhd and autism. I really want to replace these medications, because of side effects and possible long term damage. Based on your research, what is the best nootropic option? Saffron, NAC, or phosphatidylserine? Or is there possibly another nootropic that would be more effective?
Ron, it depends on what exactly you are trying to do. You will not be able to directly replace the drugs you are using for ADHD and autism with nootropics. Especially for autism. And certainly not with one or two supplements.
See my post on ADHD for what you can use in place of a stimulant: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-adhd-add/
But for autism you’ll need to do a consultation with me (https://calendly.com/davidtomen/60min) because I have not written an article on nootropics and autism yet. But I have done the research on autism and consulted with several people dealing with autism.
David, thank you so much for your speedy reply. I read that you are still taking Ritalin along with some nootropics. It appears that it has worked out great for you. Is Ritalin and nootropics safe for children?
Ron, great question that I am not qualified to answer. If it was my kid and he/she had to use Ritalin I would have them using nootropics. But at a dose that was 1/2 to 1/3 of the adult dose depending on the supplement.
So you wouldn’t have a kid use Ritalin?
Sharon, that is not what I said. What I tried to say at least was if my kid was using Ritalin I would consider supporting its use with natural nootropic supplements but at a much lower dose than the adult dose. Primarily to mitigate or try to prevent any possible negative effects the stimulant may have on a young and developing brain.
The standard, recommended dosage for Saffron is Saffron 25 – 30 mg twice a day which comes out to a total maximum dose of 60 mg. But many Saffron supplements are only available in 88.5 mg doses. Another 20 mg of Saffron is not going to make much of a difference. Studies show that 5 grams of Saffron are associated with toxic effects. And very high doses of Saffron (10 – 20 g) can be deadly.
Hi David, I bought the Double Wood Saffron Extract. As you mention, it is 0.3% safranal and 88.5 mg. Does this mean it’s not a good quality product? It has 4.4 stars on Amazon.
I want to add it to my sleep stack of two forms of magnesium (glycinate and malate – both time released), 10 mg of melatonin and 600 mg of relora. Do you think this is safe? Should I look for one of the three forms of saffron you mention?
Gary, I think the Double Wood Saffron supplement is fine and the company does produce a high quality product.
But 10 mg melatonin is a lot of melatonin. Your brain only uses 0.5 – 0.8 mg melatonin during the night. Do you really need that much melatonin especially if you are already using Magnolia Bark?
Thank you so much for the reply. Now it’s all clear.