The mood-study one
Standardized saffron extract (such as affron)
The type of extract used in most mood studies.
Good for: Mood
What variations of saffron exist?
The spice from the crocus flower, studied as an extract for low mood, PMS, and stress. Results so far are promising but come from fairly small studies. It comes in 3 forms, and they aren't all the same. Here's how they differ.
For education only. What's right for you depends on your health and your medications, so check with your provider before you start or switch. Book a consult
Our top pick
Every form, in plain words
The mood-study one
Standardized saffron extract (such as affron)
The type of extract used in most mood studies.
Good for: Mood
The kitchen one
Culinary saffron threads
Safe in food amounts, but too little for the effects that were studied.
Usually skip
- The suspicious bargain (Cheap unbranded saffron powder)Saffron is costly, so it's often faked or watered down.
Spotting a good one on the shelf
Look for
- Look for 'Standardized saffron extract' on the label (the mood-study one)
Watch out for
- No standardization or branded extract listed
- An unusually low price, which can mean it's been watered down
Check with your provider first if…
- Pregnancy. Amounts above what is used in food may stimulate the uterus.
- Taking antidepressants or other mood medicines
- Bipolar disorder
- Taking blood thinners or blood pressure medicines
In Dr. Lesher's store
2 products in Dr. Lesher's dispensary have saffron. Here's which form, where the label says.
Check with your provider before taking any of these, especially if you're pregnant or take medications.
Pure Encapsulations
Daily Calm
Has standardized saffron extract (the mood-study one), good for mood
15.01 mg per serving
Metagenics
Buy on Fullscript HerWellness™ Rapid Stress Relief
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Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.