Generic
Saffron
1 brands available in the market
At a glance
Saffron (Crocus sativus) is a natural supplement used as a mood enhancer and antidepressant. It is effective in major depressive disorder, dysthymia, premenstrual, postpartum, and postmenopausal depression, PTSD, fibromyalgia, cognitive impairment, and Alzheimer's disease.
Description
Saffron's active constituents crocin, safranal, crocetin, and picrocrocin upregulate dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin levels in the hippocampus, improving mood, reducing chronic inflammation, and enhancing neural plasticity to form new neural connections.
Indications
- Major depressive disorder
- Dysthymia
- Premenstrual depression
- Postpartum depression
- Postmenopausal depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Fibromyalgia
- Cognitive impairment
- Alzheimer's disease
Therapeutic class
Herbal and Nutraceuticals
Pharmacological class
Neuroprotective and Antidepressant Agent
Pharmacology
Saffron exhibits antidepressant effects by increasing dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin levels in the hippocampus. It switches off chronic inflammation in the hippocampus and increases neural plasticity to form new neural connections. Its antioxidant and neuroprotective properties also make it effective in Alzheimer's disease.
Mechanism of action
Improves mood and reduces inflammation by increasing dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin in the brain.
Dosage
Dosage:
- 1-2 capsules daily after meals (morning or night)
- Treatment duration: Minimum 4 weeks
- Repeat course as advised by the physician
Administration
- Take orally after meals
- Take as directed by a physician
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible; if almost time for the next dose, skip it; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Side Effects:
- Well tolerated at recommended doses; no serious adverse effects reported
- Rare cases of mild headache or stomach discomfort
Precautions & warnings
- Caution in patients taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs (may inhibit platelet aggregation)
- Caution in bleeding disorders
- Do not use in children under 12 years
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to saffron
- Bleeding disorders
- Children under 12 years
Drug interactions
- Anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs (warfarin): May inhibit platelet aggregation; caution required
Food interactions
Caution is advised when consuming alcohol with Saffron; consult your doctor.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Not recommended during pregnancy; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: B — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: May be used during lactation as advised by the physician; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Not applicable for children under 12 years
Geriatric use
Safe for elderly; however, caution is needed.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Not applicable
Overdose effects
No overdose information available; consult your doctor if overused.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Saffron