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Saffron (Crocus sativus)

Evidence: ★★★★☆ · Status: OTC Supplement

💡 Did you know? Saffron — the world's most expensive spice by weight — has small human trials showing an antidepressant effect comparable to low-dose SSRIs.

In plain English

The spice mildly raises serotonin like a gentle antidepressant, with surprisingly good trial support for low mood.

How it works

Crocin/safranal inhibit serotonin reuptake and are anti-inflammatory/antioxidant; several RCTs rival low-dose SSRIs for mild-moderate depression.

Molecular target & official sources

Crocin (PubChem CID 5281233) · SLC6A4 serotonin transporter (NCBI Gene)

Protocol

30 mg/day standardised (affron/Satiereal).

Bottom line

Genuinely evidence-backed mood support.

Helps with: Cardiovascular · Stress & Anxiety

Stacks with

Shares a pathway — often paired with: Caffeine, Omega-3 (EPA/DHA), Modafinil / Armodafinil, Amphetamine (Adderall) / Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse).

Availability & where to buy

Available over the counter. Widely available OTC — e.g. iHerb (ships worldwide); in Singapore also Guardian, Watsons, GNC, Shopee / Lazada. Look for a third-party-tested / GMP mark and check the dose per serving.

How it works: the Monoamines pathway →

Used in these protocols

Common questions

Does Saffron (Crocus sativus) actually work?

Human-evidence rating: 4 of 5. Genuinely evidence-backed mood support.

How do you take Saffron (Crocus sativus)?

30 mg/day standardised (affron/Satiereal).

Is Saffron (Crocus sativus) legal or approved?

Regulatory status: OTC Supplement.