Saffron

Saffron is a spice harvested from the dried stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower

Often taken withOmega-3, Magnesium, Vitamin D
Saffron

Evidence-backed benefits

How Saffron can help, goal by goal, with the studies behind each score.

21XP

Eases self-rated depression symptoms in small trials, mostly from Iran, but clinician-rated scores did not improve and the newest independent trial found no effect.

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19XP

Improves sleep quality scores, with about 100 mg a day working best in trials.

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13XP

Eased PMS symptoms in small controlled trials.

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11XP

Lowered self-rated anxiety in small trials, but not clinician-rated anxiety.

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How to read XP

Each score is for this supplement and that specific goal, not a general rating.

XP combines how reliable the research is with how much difference it usually makes. Higher means stronger evidence for that supplement and that goal.

Limited<15 XPModest15–27 XPModerate28–44 XPReliable45–69 XPHigh70+ XP

Dosage

What studies commonly use for Saffron, and how it is usually taken.

Usual dose

30 mg per day

30 mg/day (15 mg twice daily or 30 mg once daily)

How to take it
  • Any time of day
See study range

20–30 mg/day (standardized stigma extract, e.g. Affron)

Your journey

Sleep Quality comes first (week 2 → week 4); PMS Symptoms takes longest (week 4 → week 9). An estimate from the studies' timelines, not a promise: everyone responds differently.

Sleep Quality
Week 2 → Week 4
Mood & Depression
Week 2 → Week 6
Stress & Anxiety
Week 2 → Week 6
PMS Symptoms
Week 4 → Week 9

From the first noticeable effect to roughly full strength. Colour follows the XP tier of each benefit.

Make it a habit

These gains come from steady use, not a single dose. Keep Saffron in your routine for about week 9 before you judge it.

Safety

What to know before you take Saffron.

Safety rating

Well tolerated

Mild effects, if any.

  • Toxic at very high dosesFrom about 1.2 g up it can be dangerous. Stick to the usual dose.

Check with a doctor first if you're pregnant.

General information, not medical advice. If you are pregnant, take medication or have a health condition, check with a doctor or pharmacist first.

Common pairings

Supplements and habits often combined with Saffron.

Omega-3

Both studied for mood

Magnesium

Commonly paired for mood and stress

Vitamin D

Often considered together for mood

Where to buy

Brands we looked at for Saffron, with our quality score for each.

Pure Micronutrients

Saffron Extract

Quality score3/5

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