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Saffron: A Natural Remedy For Stress And Low Mood
11 Jul 2024
Saffron is a spice derived from the Crocus sativus flower. It is rich in bioactive compounds and has been clinically shown to improve symptoms related to stress, anxiety, and low mood, along with enhancing sleep. Saffron’s active constituents include carotenoids, phenols, and flavonoids. Its clinical effects are primarily attributed to crocin and safranal, which are also responsible for its aroma and colour. Multiple controlled trials have shown that saffron improves symptoms related to nervousness, stress, and mood.
Multiple mechanisms of action have been identified for saffron, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, modulation of the HPA axis, agonism of the GABAA receptor, and inhibition of the reuptake of several neurotransmitters, including dopamine. Affron®, a novel standardized extract of saffron, has been shown to decrease negative mood and symptoms related to stress and anxiety (including perceived stress and nervousness, tension, sadness, and fatigue) in several randomized, controlled trials in adults. A controlled trial in adolescents aged 12–16 years showed similar benefits. Affron also improved clinician-assessed mood scores when combined adjunctively with standard therapies. Additionally, affron has been shown to improve the sleep quality of participants with self-reported sleep problems and increase evening melatonin levels.
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