What is saffron good for?
Saffron is a spice that is harvested by hand from the stigmas and styles of the Crocus sativus flower, commonly known as the saffron crocus, a plant that is actually unknown in the wild but has endured for millennia through human cultivation and trade across many different cultures, continents, and civilizations. It's meticulous harvesting method makes it the most expensive spice in the world.
Saffron's antioxidant properties
In addition to it's distinct flavour and striking visual enhancement of any dish it is incorporated into, saffron contains a large array of chemicals that function as antioxidants, compounds that help fight free radicals and combat oxidative stress.
Saffron for mental health
A review performed in 2019 concluded that saffron was significantly more effective at treating symptoms of mild to moderate depression than placebos, while various studies that tested saffron against standard depression medications, such as fluoxetine, imipramine, and citalopram, revealed that saffron was just as effective as these at treating depression while also having the added benefit of less adverse effects.
Saffron for cancer prevention
A 2020 review found that compounds in saffron are able to selectively kill cancer cells, induce cancer cell death, and suppress tumor growth while leaving healthy cells unharmed. Furthermore, crocin, the primary antioxidant found in saffron, can even make cancer cells more sensitive to chemotherapy treatment.
Further health benefits of saffron
Research into saffron's health benefits is ongoing and far from complete. Several areas of interest for saffron's potential benefits include sleep quality, heart disease, diabetes, eye health, and cognitive conditions such as Alzheimer's diseases.
When should I take saffron?
One of saffron's key properties is its ability to improve sleep quality when taken before bedtime, therefore it is recommended to take it with your evening meal in order take full advantage of this.
What should I avoid taking saffron with?
Avoid saffron with antidepressants
Some types of antidepressants are known to interact negatively with saffron, so it is best to avoid taking them in combination with each other.
Who should avoid taking saffron supplements?
Avoid saffron during/after pregnancy
It is not advisible for pregnant women to take saffron, and the same applies to women who are breastfeeding.
Saffron data sources & further reading
Last updated by Asklepios on 30th January, 2025