Saffron’s Benefits for Mood and Emotional Wellbeing
Saffron is considered a highly valuable spice. It’s been used for thousands of years as a culinary ingredient, a dye , a religious offering, and a traditional medicine. As the pharmacological properties of its extracted components become more well-understood, it’s place as a therapeutic spice are becoming scientifically recognised.
Saffron (Crocus Sativus) has particular significance in Persian, Indian and Spanish cultures, where it’s grown and harvested.
Recent studies have demonstrated positives effects of saffron on mood and emotional wellbeing, resilience to stress, sleep quality, anxiety and oxidative stress.
While these outcomes were seen with therapeutic doses (usually around 30mg/day) with specific extractions of active constituents, adding saffron as a culinary spice can also provide benefits as well as flavour and colour. I love making saffron tea by infusing 2-4 strands in hot water - it’s warming and uplifting and is particularly nice to sip when feeling anxious or overwhelmed.
If considering a saffron supplement for more intensive support, always check with a Nutritional Therapist to check its suitability for your life-stage, compatibility with medications you’re taking or underlying health conditions.
