The Power of Saffron for Mental Health

By Dr. Edward F. Group

Guest Writer for Wake Up World

Saffron is an extravagant, sweet-smelling spice commonly used in Indian, Turkish, and Persian cuisine. Its use in traditional health approaches has spanned thousands of years, and modern research seems to back up its commonly-reported benefits.

Like most spices, saffron may be a formidable force against internal swelling (inflammation) and irritation in the body. For years, research has also linked this red grass-like spice with mood health, showing it could be a powerful tool against varying forms of depression.

Saffron: A Depression Fighter?

While it may not be a one-size-fits-all approach, saffron supplementation may be helpful for some people in regulating mood and mental health. A recent meta-analysis examining the years of saffron research has found many clinical trials suggest the spice could improve the symptoms of depression. ^[1] The exact mechanisms behind which saffron exhibits beneficial effects against mood-related disorders is largely unknown; however, it’s hypothesized that it may be due to its antioxidant content. ^[2]

Not only does saffron provide a lower risk-to-benefit ratio compared to antidepressants, saffron may also inhibit the side effects commonly experienced by antidepressants. That means, as an adjunct to conventional approaches to depression, saffron may be an ideal supplement for reducing side effects from antidepressant drugs. That’s not to say you should stop taking antidepressants–far from it. But, if you do have concerns about the medications you are taking, talk to your doctor about the types of strategies you can use to support mental health.

Natural Support for Mental Health

There are many things you can do to protect your mood and even strengthen it without having to rely on pharmaceutical methods. While antidepressants may be necessary in some cases, you should also consider optimizing your vitamin D, exercising, and getting plenty of high-quality sleep. Don’t forget about nutrition. Omega-3 fats are excellent mood supporters, and you can get them easily from vegan sources such as chia and flax seed.

What do you do to support your mental health and mood? We’d love to hear your tips in the comments!

– Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

References:

1. Hausenblas HA, Heekin K, Mutchie HL, Anton S. A systematic review of randomized controlled trials examing the effectiveness of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) on psychological and behavioral outcomes. J Integr Med. 2015 Jul;13(4):231-40. doi: 10.1016/S2095-4964(15)60176-5.
2. Saleem S, Ahmad M, Ahmad AS, et al. Effect of Saffron (Crocus sativus) on neurobehavioral and neurochemical changes in cerebral ischemia in rats. J Med Food. 2006 Summer;9(2):246-53.

Previous articles by Dr. Group:

• The 9 Best Fermented Foods for Your Gut
• 14 Foods that Cleanse the Liver
• How Turmeric Keeps You Looking Young
• 7 Toxins Harming Your Brain Right Now
• Top 5 Foods for the Pineal Gland
• 6 Things You Must Know About Colloidal Silver
• The Importance of a Kidney Cleansing Diet
• The 9 Best Herbs for Lung Cleansing and Respiratory Support
• 7 Best Foods to Support Kidney Function
• Lung Cleansing With Peppermint Oil
• 10 Best Herbs for Boosting Female Sex Drive

About the author:

Dr. Edward F. Group III (DC, ND, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM) founded Global Healing Center in 1998 and is currently the Chief Executive Officer. Heading up the research and development team, Dr. Group assumes a hands-on approach in producing new and advanced degenerative disease products and information.

Dr. Group has studied natural healing methods for over 20 years and now teaches individuals and practitioners all around the world. He no longer sees patients but solely concentrates on spreading the word of health and wellness to the global community. Under his leadership, Global Healing Center, Inc. has earned recognition as one of the largest alternative, natural and organic health resources on the internet.

For more information, please visit Global Healing Center.