Everyday spice might help reduce depression and improve sexual health, according to a doctor.

Certain Spices May Help with Depression, Experts Say

Some spices are being recognized for their potential as natural mood enhancers. Saffron, a common ingredient in dishes like paella and various herbal teas, seems to have a positive impact on mood and can alleviate symptoms of depression, alongside other health benefits.

During an interview with Fox News Digital, Dr. Daniel Amen, who is a psychiatrist and the founder of the Amen Clinic in California, expressed his support for using saffron to boost mental health. “I really like saffron,” he mentioned. “Being Lebanese, saffron is a staple in many Middle Eastern cuisines. There’s even a saying in Iran that if you’re overly joyful, it might be because you had saffron.”

Dr. Amen referred to a study indicating that around 30 milligrams of saffron showed effectiveness comparable to traditional antidepressants in a controlled trial.

While most SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are known to improve mood, they can also lead to issues with sexual function. Interestingly, Amen pointed out that saffron appears to enhance sexual function instead. “As a psychiatrist, I certainly don’t want to hinder my patients’ romantic lives,” he suggested. “Research shows saffron can actually improve sexual function.”

In addition, various studies have indicated that saffron may aid in boosting memory and concentration. A recent publication in Reviews in Clinical Medicine 2025 linked saffron to a reduction in premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms. After using saffron for an 8 to 12-week period, participants reported a significant decrease in both the severity and number of their PMS symptoms.

Another study published by Cambridge University Press in May 2025 further established saffron’s link to alleviating depressive symptoms. This review encompassed 192 trials involving over 17,000 patients and examined 44 different nutritional supplements to evaluate their efficacy in treating depression. The findings showed saffron’s moderate to substantial antidepressant effects.

The meta-analysis also explored how these nutritional supplements can work alongside prescribed antidepressants. It turned out that combining supplements like zinc and curcumin (a compound from turmeric) with existing antidepressants could enhance their effectiveness. “If you’re using antidepressants and want to boost their efficacy, consider including zinc and curcumin,” Amen recommended. “Saffron, zinc, and curcumin make a powerful trio.”

While cooking with saffron might not provide enough for noticeable mood improvement, there are saffron supplements available in various forms, including capsules and powder. Generally, the suggested dosage for relief is about 30 milligrams daily.

However, researchers urge caution, as the long-term effects of saffron supplementation remain unclear, leading to questions about its overall efficacy. A medically reviewed article from WebMD notes that consuming large amounts of saffron or taking it over extended periods could pose risks, including anxiety, appetite shifts, upset stomach, drowsiness, and headaches.