How Does Saffron Benefit Health?

Boosts Mood

For many individuals, saffron boosts their mood. In fact, there are some studies indicating saffron may be useful as a natural antidepressant. Scientists were able to demonstrate supplemental saffron led to an improvement in the symptoms of patients dealing with depression. The effects of saffron were comparable to those of prescription antidepressant medications. These results came from small studies.

Therefore, it is not certain saffron will become a standard treatment for depression in the future, though it does show a lot of promise. Depression patients may want to consider adding a daily saffron supplement to their treatment regimen while continuing to follow the advice of a doctor. Saffron may also help with premenstrual syndrome. Women who have bad mood swings before their periods may benefit from a saffron supplement to regulate this.

Assists With Cognitive Function

Yet another health benefit of saffron is the way it assists with cognitive function. Some research has demonstrated saffron supplements might even be helpful in treating Alzheimer's disease. Saffron may even be as effective as the medications for Alzheimer's disease currently on the market. Researchers believe saffron stops the body from depositing amyloid beta in the brain. The buildup of amyloid beta plaques is thought to be linked to the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

When this buildup is prevented or slowed, the symptoms of the disease do not worsen as quickly. Unfortunately, the studies done on this have been relatively small and it cannot be determined with certainty whether saffron is actually a viable treatment for Alzheimer's disease. However, it certainly does not hurt for patients to take saffron supplements in addition to following the regimen their doctors prescribe.