Saffron (Crocus sativus L.)

Benefits of Saffron

  • Emotional wellbeing
  • Source: Flower stigma extract
  • Type: Botanical
Saffron (Crocus sativus L.)

What is Saffron?

Saffron comes from the delicate red stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower, and is one of the world's most prized spices. It contains safranal, an active compound, alongside carotenoid and polyphenol compounds with antioxidant activity.

What does the research say about Saffron?

Saffron has been studied for its effects on mood, stress and sleep quality. Researchers are particularly interested in its relationship with serotonin, a brain messenger involved in mood.

Safranal has been studied for its interaction with GABA, the brain's main inhibitory (calming) neurotransmitter. Saffron's compounds have also been studied in relation to dopamine, which is important for motivation and reward processing.