Saffron Extract
Updated Feb. 05th, 2026 | Read Time: 2 Minutes | What You Will Learn:
- Top Benefits of Saffron
- Weight Loss – Reducing Emotional Eating
- Alzheimer's Disease
- Healthy Cell Growth
- Depression
- Taking Saffron Extract
- Nutritional Information
- Reader Comments (2)
Saffron extract comes from the stigmas (the long thin hair-like projections in the middle of the flower) of the saffron crocus plant (Crocus sativus). This extract has long been used in traditional Persian medicine for the treatment of depression. It was recently shown on Dr. Oz's self-titled show as one of the belly-fat-busting supplements. Dr. Oz stated that this extract can "annihilate your urge to over-eat". Reviewing the literature, this extract has far more potential than just that (although it does that too). It has also been found to help cognition and healthy cell development.
Top Benefits of Saffron
Weight Loss – Reducing Emotional Eating
A recent study in a journal called Nutrition Research showed a significant benefit of saffron extract in promoting weight loss in slightly overweight women. It was found that this particular extract reduced snacking and enhanced satiety or the feeling of having had enough. They showed that this extract combats emotional eating. It was found to trigger the same chemical cascade in the brain that creates the feeling that you get in the short-term from eating carbohydrates. Thus, supplementing can give you the ability to say "no", even when faced with tempting foods.
Alzheimer's Disease
One study found that 30mg of saffron extract daily was equally as successful at treating mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease as donepezil, a common pharmaceutical drug used in these cases. Thus, this extract can help to protect mental function in those afflicted with Alzheimer's disease.
Healthy Cell Growth
Preliminary research shows successful promotion of apoptosis ("cell-suicide") in lung and colon cells. A number of studies have successfully examined saffron extract as a treatment against several unhealthy cell lines in test tubes. Further research is required, but saffron extract may have beneficial effects.
Depression
A study of 40 depressed people, found that 30mg per day of saffron extract was found to be as effective as fluoxetine (Prozac) in the treatment of depression. Thus, in addition to its other benefits, saffron extract may also help with symptoms of depression. It is likely that these effects happen through similar alterations in the brains chemical pathways that allow for reduced food cravings. These effects are not surprising since saffron has been used in traditional Persian medicine for this purpose for centuries.
Taking Saffron Extract
Saffron extract is available in capsule and liquid form from a variety of manufacturers. It has been well studied at a dose of 30mg per day, often divided into 15mg doses given twice daily. This dose has been found to be safe and without significant side effects.
I have heard of saffron before (quite the expensive spice, haha!) but I had not known that saffron extract was purported to be such a supe-rememdy!!: It is amazing that this extract not only has ancient history use in the treatment of depression but is known to have appetite supressing effects, potential role in treating Alzheimer's disease, depression and even potential benefits in the context of cancer. It seems that most of the research is preliminary so it will be exciting to see the results of larger and more conclusive trials on saffron extract. That said, consider me interested and a bit more educated! Thank you for another good read & new learning! :)
Hello Rachel,
This spice does more than just flavour food! As you now know, saffron extract is concentrated and provides a hefty dose of health advantages. Thank you for your comment and curiosity in learning about natural health with us.
Have a healthy day!