Certain spices, like saffron, are being recognized for their potential as natural mood enhancers. Seen in dishes such as paella and herbal teas, saffron boasts promising effects on depression and various health benefits.
In a recent chat with Fox News Digital, Dr. Daniel Amen, a psychiatrist and founder of the Amen Clinic in California, expressed his strong support for saffron in promoting mental health. He shared a personal connection, noting, “I adore saffron. Being Lebanese, it’s a staple in many Middle Eastern recipes. There’s even a Persian saying that suggests if someone is too happy, they must have eaten saffron.”
Amen highlighted a study indicating that a dosage of around 30 milligrams of saffron was comparable to traditional antidepressants in terms of effectiveness.
While typical antidepressants like SSRIs can improve mood, they often have side effects, including diminished sexual function. Dr. Amen suggested that saffron may be advantageous here, stating, “As a psychiatrist, my goal is to support my patients’ overall well-being, and research indicates that saffron can actually enhance sexual function.”
Additionally, multiple studies reveal saffron’s benefits in memory enhancement and concentration. For instance, research published in Reviews in Clinical Medicine 2025 linked saffron to alleviating premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Women in a recent trial who took saffron for 8 to 12 weeks reported notable decreases in both the severity and symptoms of PMS.
Another comprehensive review published in May 2025 found saffron to be one of the most effective supplements for addressing depression, derived from an analysis of over 192 studies involving more than 17,000 participants and various nutritional supplements.
Interestingly, the meta-analysis also examined the interactions between supplements and prescribed antidepressants, finding that combining zinc and curcumin (a component in turmeric) with existing medications may enhance their effectiveness. Amen suggested, “If you’re on antidepressants, adding zinc and curcumin could be beneficial. The combination of saffron, zinc, and curcumin seems promising.”
While saffron can be enjoyed in meals, achieving the necessary doses for mood benefits might require supplements. The typical recommendation is about 30 milligrams daily for symptom relief. However, experts warn that long-term use of saffron lacks extensive research, indicating some uncertainty regarding its safety and efficacy as a supplement.
Furthermore, as highlighted by a medically reviewed article on WebMD, high doses or prolonged use of saffron might have adverse effects, potentially leading to anxiety, changes in appetite, stomach upset, drowsiness, and headaches. Therefore, anyone considering saffron supplements should consult a healthcare professional first.
