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 saffron extract can "annihilate your urge to over-eat". Reviewing the literature, saffron extract has far more potential than just that (although it does that too). It has also been found to help in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, depression and even cancer.

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 saffron 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, saffron extract can help to protect mental function in those afflicted with Alzheimer's disease.

Cancer Therapy
Preliminary research shows successful promotion of apoptosis ("cell-suicide") in lung and colon cancer cells. A number of studies have successfully examined saffron extract as a treatment against several cancer cell lines in test tubes. Further research is required, but saffron extract may have beneficial effects in the treatment of cancer.

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 to treat 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.

How can I take 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.