# saffron Research has shown that saffron may have antidepressant effects by increasing levels of [[serotonin]], a neurotransmitter that is important for regulating mood. [[antioxidant]] and [[anti-inflammatory]] properties which may contribute to its ability to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. In one study, saffron was compared to a placebo in the treatment of mild-to-moderate depression in adults. The study found that saffron was more effective than the placebo in reducing symptoms of depression, and that it had a similar level of effectiveness to antidepressant medication. #Pasted/AI Clinical Studies on Anxiety: Research has indicated that saffron might be as effective as some traditional medications in treating mild to moderate anxiety without severe side effects. Clinical trials have found that saffron supplementation, particularly at a dose of 30 mg/day, has shown promise in reducing anxiety symptoms in adults and even in youths experiencing mild-to-moderate anxiety or depression symptoms. You can read more about these findings in the study, Effects of Saffron Extract Supplementation on Mood, Well-Being, and Response to a Psychosocial Stressor in Healthy Adults and Neuroprotective Potency of Saffron Against Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Neurodegenerative Diseases, and Other Brain Disorders. Saffron's potential anti-anxiety benefits have been explored in several clinical studies: Certainly! Here are the links to the studies and articles mentioned, formatted in Markdown: 1. **Effects of Saffron Extract Supplementation on Mood, Well-Being, and Response to a Psychosocial Stressor in Healthy Adults**: [Study Link](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2020.566280/full) 2. **Neuroprotective Potency of Saffron Against Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Neurodegenerative Diseases, and Other Brain Disorders**: [Study Link](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2019.01127/full) 3. **Saffron’s Natural Anti-Anxiety Properties and How To Consume More Of It**: [Article Link](https://www.rupahealth.com/posts/saffron-natural-anti-anxiety-properties) 5. **Clinical Studies on Anxiety**: Research indicates that saffron may be effective in treating mild to moderate anxiety, showing similar efficacy to conventional medications but with fewer side effects. Detailed studies, such as those published in [Frontiers in Pharmacology](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2020.566280/full), demonstrate saffron's potential to improve mood and manage anxiety symptoms in adults and youths. 6. **Mechanisms of Action**: The beneficial effects of saffron on mood could be linked to its bioactive compounds such as crocin, crocetin, and safranal, which influence neurotransmitter pathways associated with mood regulation. For more detailed information, you can refer to the article titled [Neuroprotective Potency of Saffron Against Neuropsychiatric Diseases](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2019.01127/full). 7. **Safety and Side Effects**: Generally, saffron is safe and well-tolerated, with common side effects including appetite fluctuations, sedation, and mild gastrointestinal symptoms. It's crucial to consult with healthcare professionals before starting any new supplement regimen, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions or those taking other medications. More about this can be found in the article [Saffron’s Natural Anti-Anxiety Properties and How To Consume More Of It](https://www.rupahealth.com/posts/saffron-natural-anti-anxiety-properties). 8. **Usage and Dosage**: Saffron can be consumed both as a spice in cooking and as a supplement in capsule form. The right dosage and usage guidelines should be followed according to manufacturer recommendations or healthcare advice. Further details are available in [Saffron’s Natural Anti-Anxiety Properties and How To Consume More Of It](https://www.rupahealth.com/posts/saffron-natural-anti-anxiety-properties). These references provide a comprehensive view of saffron's potential as a natural treatment for anxiety, highlighting its effectiveness and safety profiles based on recent research.