Khaberni - Known as "Red Gold" due to its rarity alongside its benefits for the body and mental state improvement, saffron is not merely a common type of spice used in Eastern cuisine for its distinctive flavor.
Although saffron is one of the most expensive spices in the world, it probably deserves that status, as a medical expert revealed its amazing ability to act as a natural antidepressant, along with a series of additional health benefits that may exceed many people's expectations.
Dr. Daniel Amen, a well-known psychiatrist and founder of Amen Clinics in California, revealed in an exclusive interview with Fox News his great enthusiasm for using saffron in supporting mental health.
He said, "I am very fond of saffron; being of Lebanese descent, we use it extensively in Eastern cuisine. There is even a popular saying in Iran that goes: If you are happier than usual, it must be because you've had saffron."
An intriguing plant
What makes this plant intriguing is the scientific evidence supporting its benefits, as Dr. Amen pointed out to research results that confirmed a small dose of 30 mg of saffron was "as effective" as traditional antidepressants in randomized controlled trials, according to the "New York Post".
While many traditional antidepressants tend to have a negative effect on sexual function, saffron comes as a pleasant surprise, as Dr. Amen explains, "As a psychiatrist, I do not want to harm my patients' emotional lives. Research has shown that saffron improves sexual function, unlike traditional medications."
The benefits of saffron are not limited to mood improvement alone; multiple studies have confirmed its ability to enhance memory and focus, and a recent study published in the Reviews in Clinical Medicine 2025 uncovered the role of saffron in significantly alleviating symptoms of premenstrual syndrome after 8 to 12 weeks of use.
In further evidence of saffron's efficacy, researchers analyzed 192 trials involving more than 17,000 patients and 44 types of dietary supplements. The astounding result was that saffron topped the list as the most effective supplement in combating depression, showing effects ranging from moderate to strong.
Saffron with Zinc and Curcumin
The analysis reveals the possibility to enhance the effectiveness of traditional antidepressants by adding some supplements, and Dr. Amen recommends, "If you are taking an antidepressant and want to improve its results, consider adding zinc and curcumin. Saffron together with zinc and curcumin make a great combination."
To obtain its therapeutic benefits, the amounts of saffron used in cooking may not be sufficient, hence supplements are available in the form of capsules, tablets, and powders. The recommended dose is 30 mg daily, but experts warn that studies have not yet determined its long-term effects.
Caution must be exercised as high doses or prolonged use may cause some side effects such as anxiety, changes in appetite, stomach upset, drowsiness, or headaches. Therefore, it is advised to consult a doctor before starting to take saffron supplements, especially for individuals who are taking other medications or have specific health conditions.
