What does the evidence show about Saffron extract (Crocus sativus)'s effects?

Read Off Label rates the evidence for Saffron extract (Crocus sativus) as Moderate and the benefit magnitude as med, producing an overall grade of B+ (7.1/10). Multiple Iranian RCTs showed non-inferiority to low-dose fluoxetine/imipramine in mild-moderate depression.

What safety findings are reported for Saffron extract (Crocus sativus)?

Saffron extract (Crocus sativus) has a low risk profile in the database. Low (safe at supplement doses; toxic >5 g) Legal status: OTC.

What doses or routes are reported for Saffron extract (Crocus sativus)?

28-30 mg/day standardized extract (saffron proprietary products) or 100-400 mg/day crude This is context from studies, approved labeling, clinical practice, or documented use; it is not individualized guidance and does not establish safety.

Rankings / Mood, Anxiety & Stress

Saffron extract (Crocus sativus)

Mood, Anxiety & Stress · Herbal (crocin/safranal)

Tier B+

Reviewed by Read Off Label · Last reviewed Jun 8, 2026 · How we grade

dopamineantioxidantotc

7.1 / 10

Tier B+

Ev 6 Bn 5 Sf 9

Bottom line

Read Off Label grades Saffron extract (Crocus sativus) as B+ (7.1/10) based on moderate evidence, med benefit magnitude, and a low-risk safety profile.

Multiple Iranian RCTs showed non-inferiority to low-dose fluoxetine/imipramine in mild-moderate depression.

Studied, labeled, or reported-use context: 28-30 mg/day standardized extract (saffron proprietary products) or 100-400 mg/day crude — OTC; not individualized guidance.

What the evidence says

Multiple Iranian RCTs showed non-inferiority to low-dose fluoxetine/imipramine in mild-moderate depression. Tóth 2019 meta-analysis confirmed antidepressant effect. Also AD/MCI trials (Farokhnia 2014). Very expensive crop — contamination/adulteration common with cheaper saffrons.

Mechanism

Crocin and safranal — serotonergic/dopaminergic modulation; antioxidant; anti-amyloid activity; rivals SSRIs in mild-to-moderate depression trials

Studied, labeled, or reported dose & route

28-30 mg/day standardized extract (saffron proprietary products) or 100-400 mg/day crude

This records doses and routes described in studies, approved labeling, clinical practice, or documented use. It is not individualized guidance and does not establish safety; context changes with indication, formulation, health history, monitoring, and other medicines.

Citations

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Common questions

What does the evidence show about Saffron extract (Crocus sativus)'s effects?: Read Off Label rates the evidence for Saffron extract (Crocus sativus) as Moderate and the benefit magnitude as med, producing an overall grade of B+ (7.1/10). Multiple Iranian RCTs showed non-inferiority to low-dose fluoxetine/imipramine in mild-moderate depression.
What safety findings are reported for Saffron extract (Crocus sativus)?: Saffron extract (Crocus sativus) has a low risk profile in the database. Low (safe at supplement doses; toxic >5 g) Legal status: OTC.
What doses or routes are reported for Saffron extract (Crocus sativus)?: 28-30 mg/day standardized extract (saffron proprietary products) or 100-400 mg/day crude This is context from studies, approved labeling, clinical practice, or documented use; it is not individualized guidance and does not establish safety.
How does Saffron extract (Crocus sativus) work?: Crocin and safranal — serotonergic/dopaminergic modulation; antioxidant; anti-amyloid activity; rivals SSRIs in mild-to-moderate depression trials

This is an independent synthesis of published research by a non-clinician. Scores are opinions supported by citations, not prescriptions. See the full disclaimer and methodology for how this score was produced and what it does and doesn't mean.