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ING-164Ingredient Research Profile

Superfoods & Botanicals

Saffron Extract (Affron)

Also known as: Crocus sativus · Crocin · Safranal · Affron

●●○Moderate Evidence

The most expensive spice by weight, saffron's crocins inhibit serotonin reuptake comparably to some antidepressants in small trials. A genuine mood supplement with emerging evidence for appetite control and eye protection.

Effective Dose

28–30mg / day

per clinical evidence

Evidence Level

Moderate

Superfoods & Botanicals

Mechanism

Crocin serotonin reuptake modulation, dopamine stabilisation, antioxidant

primary action

Best For

Mood

Mild depression, Appetite control, Eye health

This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.

What Is Saffron Extract (Affron)?

Saffron (Crocus sativus stigmas) contains crocin and crocetin (carotenoids responsible for the yellow colour) and safranal (the aromatic compound). Clinical trials have found saffron extract comparable to fluoxetine (Prozac) for mild-moderate depression in small RCTs. Affron (standardised to 3.5% lepticrosalides) is the most studied commercial extract.

How It Works: The Science

Crocin weakly inhibits serotonin reuptake (SSRI-like mechanism) and also inhibits dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake — a broad monoamine reuptake inhibition profile. Safranal has GABA receptor agonist activity and antioxidant properties. Crocetin has direct retinal neuroprotective effects.

Primary Mechanism

Crocin serotonin reuptake modulation, dopamine stabilisation, antioxidant

Evidence-Based Benefits

Reduces mild-to-moderate depressive symptoms

moderate

Akhondzadeh et al. (2005) — saffron comparable to fluoxetine and imipramine in depression RCTs

Reduces snacking and compulsive eating

moderate

Gout et al. (2010) — saffron extract significantly reduced snacking frequency

Protects retinal photoreceptors from age-related degeneration

moderate

Falsini et al. (2010) — saffron improved visual acuity in age-related macular degeneration

Dosage Guide

Effective Dose

28–30mg / day

28–30mg Affron/day (standardised to 3.5% lepticrosalides). Effective at very low doses — culinary amounts in food do not provide therapeutic doses. Take in the morning.

Safety Profile & Side Effects

Very safe at supplemental doses. High doses (>5g/day) of crude saffron are toxic — not relevant at supplement doses. May potentiate serotonergic drugs — avoid combining with SSRIs/MAOIs without medical supervision.

Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It

Best for

MoodMild depressionAppetite controlEye health

Who it's for

Those with mild depression or low mood as a natural adjunct, compulsive snackers, those with age-related macular degeneration, and anyone wanting a well-evidenced mood supplement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended dose of Saffron Extract (Affron)?

28–30mg Affron/day (standardised to 3.5% lepticrosalides). Effective at very low doses — culinary amounts in food do not provide therapeutic doses. Take in the morning.

Is Saffron Extract (Affron) safe?

How does Saffron Extract (Affron) work?

Who should take Saffron Extract (Affron)?

Those with mild depression or low mood as a natural adjunct, compulsive snackers, those with age-related macular degeneration, and anyone wanting a well-evidenced mood supplement.

Related Ingredients

5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan)L-Tryptophan Ashwagandha (KSM-66 / Sensoril)

Medical Disclaimer

Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →