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Saffron stands to be one of the most decadent spices in the world recognized by its vibrant red color and stringy texture.
The harvesting of saffron is a laborious process that consists of being completely harvested by hand ensuring that only the best is taken.
Saffron comes from the saffron crocus flower and it is characterized as the stigma of the unique flower. The vibrant spice has long been used for culinary purposes.
However, it has most significantly been used for its therapeutic purposes due to the medicinal properties it contains.
Shown to hold a host of beneficial properties, saffron is used for its health benefits as it is believed to produce mood-boosting effects, improve cognition, and increase libido.
It continues to be a popular natural product that is used for its therapeutic benefits and can be found in supplement form. This article will share the 4 best saffron supplements.
The List
1. Nuzena: Saffron Super Spice +
Nuzena offers a powerful saffron extract supplement that provides natural support in helping to boost mood, support cognitive benefits such as memory function, and support regulating stress levels by reducing anxiety. Nuzena’s product, Saffron Super Spice + contains potent natural ingredients that are believed to support and enhance health and wellbeing.
Benefits
Containing 88.5 mg of pure saffron extract, this supplement is packed with powerful antioxidants such as crocin, safranal, crocetin, and kaempferol. Clinical studies show the benefits of these natural compounds in displaying antidepressant properties, as well as the ability to protect brain cells, aid digestion, and improve inflammation.
Ethics
Not only is Saffron Super Spice + suitable for those on a gluten-free or vegetarian diet, but the supplements are also made from a non-GMO formula and are wholly natural ingredients that have been sustainably sourced and efficiently extracted. Nuzena ensures that all of its products are manufactured in an FDA-registered facility and have been third-party tested for safety, efficiency, and quality. All of the ingredients used are also clinically proven and backed by scientific research.
Dosage
This product contains 60 capsules. Take two capsules daily 30 minutes before a meal. For best results, it’s advised that one be taken in the day and another in the evening.
Pros
- 88.5 mg of pure saffron
- Sustainably sourced
- Suitable for a vegetarian and gluten-free diet
Cons
- Not suitable for vegans
2. Brain MD – Happy Saffron Plus
Brain MD offers a leading saffron supplement known as Happy Saffron Plus. Happy Saffron Plus is a supplement that contains an extract from 100% organic saffron. It contains high levels of antioxidants and other nutrients that are known to support brain function.
This supplement contains a unique and potent combination of mood-supporting ingredients that are backed by clinical research. The supplement consists of a combination of highly concentrated saffron, optimized curcumin, and zinc.
The combination of these ingredients creates a powerful supplement that works to provide a boost of energy and focus while also helping with memory retention. It may also help maintain healthy blood flow throughout the body which helps keep the brain functioning at optimal capacity.
Benefits
Happy saffron plus is used as a dietary supplement to support overall well-being. It is believed to improve memory, concentration, and energy levels.
Happy saffron plus contains organic saffron extract which is derived from the flower stigmas of the crocus plant. This part of the plant contains powerful properties that have been shown to be effective in improving memory and cognitive function.
In addition, saffron is rich in antioxidants, which protect against free radical damage. Research shows that antioxidants are essential for maintaining health and fighting off diseases like diabetes, cancer, and Alzheimer’s. Hence, Happy saffron plus being so rich in such properties may produce a host of health benefits.
Happy saffron plus is also considered an effective weight-loss supplement that works by helping the body burn calories faster as Happy Saffron Plus promotes mitochondrial activity, which allows your body to use its energy efficiently. As a result, you burn more calories throughout the day which effectively works to aid weight loss.
Ethics
This product is suitable for those on a corn-free, dairy-free, egg-free, sugar-free, and gluten-free diet. Additionally, each product is made to the highest standard undergoing several tests, retests, and third-party testing before certification. This product also contains wholly natural and ethically sourced ingredients.
Dosage
This product contains 90 capsules. Take three capsules daily between meals.
Pros
- Combination of powerful compounds
- Suitable for vegans
- Undergone third-party testing
Cons
- It may require starting with one saffron capsule at a time if you suffer from a sensitive stomach
3. Standard Dose – Kinder Thoughts Saffron Capsules
Standard Dose offers unique saffron capsules that are not only recognized for their beneficial health effects but also their bold coloring. The extract in these capsules are antioxidant-rich containing turmeric and pure saffron.
Benefits
Standard Dose’s Kinder Thoughts saffron capsules contain powerful compounds that create a potent product in combination. This product contains 350 mg of turmeric root extract and 30 mg of Crocus sativus stigmas of the saffron extract. Both contain rich antioxidant and nutrient levels that work to rebalance and rejuvenate the body. Studies show that the effects of the compounds present in these ingredients are effective in reducing symptoms of depression and boosting mood.
Ethics
Standard Dose is committed to providing high-quality products that work to improve your overall health and well-being. Their brand is centered around transparency as the company ensures that every product is natural, clean, and free from harmful ingredients. Every product also undergoes third-party testing along with a detailed internal vetting process to ensure products are safe and effective.
Dosage
There are 30 capsules in this product. One turmeric and saffron capsule should be taken daily.
Pros
- Third-party tested
- Made from natural and sustainably sourced ingredients
- Contains a combination of powerful compounds
Cons
- Only 30 capsules
4. Nutricost – Saffron Extract
Nutricost’s saffron extract is made from the stigmas of crocus flowers. This product contains 88.5 mg of Crocus sativus which contains powerful antioxidant compounds, one of which is known as crocin which helps protect against free radical damage and boosts metabolism.
Benefits
Saffron has been used for centuries to promote physical and mental health.
Nutricost’s saffron extract contains a potent source of saffron which is believed to support immune system function, fight inflammation, and maintain normal cognitive function as it contains a rich source of nutrients, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and healthy fatty acids.
This product is commonly used to support the nervous system and promotes relaxation by relieving stress and anxiety.
Ethics
Nutricost’s saffron extract supplements are suitable for vegetarians, gluten-free, and soy-free diets. All Nutricost products are made in a GMP Compliant and FDA-registered facility to ensure they are of the maximum quality. They also ensure that every product is third-party tested.
Dosage
Nutricost’s saffron extract contains 240 capsules. Take one saffron capsule daily with a large glass of water.
Pros
- 240 capsules – 8 months worth
- Suitable for vegetarians, gluten-free, and soy-free diets
- Non-GMO and GMP Compliant
Cons
- Not suitable for vegans
This product is also available at Walmart.com and Amazon.com
Product Experience
Nuzena Saffron Super Spice + – Mikayla Ambrose
“Saffron has played a major role in getting my mental health back in order. For years I labored with stress and anxiety all through school and then into my work and social environments.
Daily saffron use has definitely helped me feel calmer, keep me clear, and stay focused. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who is looking to try a herbal alternative for anxiety medication.”
Brain MD Happy Saffron Plus – Mary H
“I suffer from paralyzing anxiety and depression that will devastate my willpower to function when I have chronic episodes.
Happy Saffron Plus has been a godsend, especially during this coronavirus pandemic. Within a week of adding to it my vitamin regime I regained normalcy. Once again, I feel like a normal human being.”
Saffron – What To Look For
Dietary supplements in the USA are currently not required to go under the same rigorous testing as pharmaceutical drugs are. Hence, it can be easy for people to take advantage of this by producing poor quality and ineffective products.
When it comes to looking for natural supplements such as saffron extract, it’s important that you look out for the right features to ensure that you are getting the best out of the products you purchase and that they are of the expected quality.
Additionally, you’ll want to make sure that the product you’ll be using comes from a reliable source and a trustworthy manufacturer.
There are many effective ways to ensure that the manufacturer you’re sourcing your product from is safe and reliable. You can check this by looking for relevant and up-to-date certifications and verifications of authenticity.
Is the Manufacturer Third-Party Tested and is the Product Manufactured in an FDA-Certified Facility?
A manufacturer that is certified for either one or both of these is considered to be reliable as it not only shows that the supplier has gone through high-quality testing, it also shows that the products are of high quality and authentic especially if they have been tested for purity and potency.
Is the Product Made from Sustainably Sourced Produce and is it Sustainably Manufactured?
Sustainability is everything, especially when it comes to analyzing the quality of a product. Products that fail to list the amount of the contents present in the product along with a failure to present the relevant sustainability certifications are a product to be wary of. Be sure to look out for products that list how much of the active component is present.
For example, the products listed in this post each state the amount of saffron extract present with most of them containing 88.5 mg. Also look out for relevant sustainability certification such as pure, organic, non-GMO, and GMP certified as this shows that the component used is free from harmful substances and safe to use.
Saffron 101 – Everything You Need To Know
Another way to get a bit more information on how well a product performs is to check out the review section.
Beneficial Effects of Saffron
Saffron has long been used for its therapeutic benefits. As a result of its ability to improve health, saffron supplements are rapidly growing in popularity. Some of the most common benefits associated with taking saffron supplements include:
Rich in Antioxidants
Saffron is characterized as a powerful plant compound that contains antioxidant properties. Acting as an antioxidant, saffron works to fight against oxidative stress to protect the cells in the body against the damage caused by free radicals.
The results of its antioxidant properties work to improve inflammation. Improving and reducing inflammation can effectively improve several areas of the body from reducing chronic pain and improving skin.
The antioxidants present in saffron include safranal, crocin, crocetin, and kaempferol.
Improved Cognitive Function
As mentioned, the plant compounds contain a range of antioxidants that work to reduce oxidative damage in the body. A significant saffron antioxidant compound is safranal. Safranal has been shown to have a significant effect in protecting brain cells against free radical damage and oxidative stress.
The effects of its activity work to create healthy brain cells which in turn works to improve cognitive performance such as improved memory. Saffron is also believed to improve concentration as it has been shown to support memory and retention.
Mood-Boosting Effects
Saffron is often characterized as a natural antidepressant. Saffron contains another significant antioxidant compound known as kaempferol which can be found in the flower petals of the saffron flowers.
The effects of this compound activity result in a reduction in inflammation in the brain. This results in improved blood and oxygen circulation in the brain and an increased flow of essential nutrients reaching the brain.
This process can significantly improve mood. Saffron has also been shown to increase dopamine production in the brain.
This is a hormone that works to regulate our mood and motivation. Hence, saffron’s ability to stimulate its production may be effective in improving energy levels and boosting mood.
Natural Aphrodisiac
Saffron has long been used as a herbal remedy for enhancing libido in men and has shown to be effective in producing an aphrodisiac effect. Due to the plant’s antioxidant, it is effective in reducing inflammation.
Clinical studies have shown that this effect may be beneficial in tackling erectile dysfunction and consequently improving libido and erectile functioning.
Aids Weight Loss
Studies have shown that saffron stigma may aid weight management by promoting weight loss by boosting energy and increasing metabolism.
Saffron is known for its powerful antioxidant properties which work to reduce inflammation and protect cells against oxidative damage. In doing so, the body’s functions are significantly improved.
This includes an improvement of blood flow and oxygen to the brain which boosts mood and energy as well as an improved digestive system and endocrine system.
The effects of these improved systems result in reduced bloating and enhanced metabolism.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Risks of Taking Saffron Supplements?Â
Like with any supplement, anything that has the potential to interact with the way that the body functions, may carry a risk of experiencing side effects. However, saffron is generally considered to be a safe plant extract.Â
It’s highly recommended that you seek advice from your doctor or a medical professional before incorporating saffron supplements into your daily routine, especially if you are/or have been on any medication, have a medical condition, are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have recently had surgery.
If you do decide to start taking saffron supplements, be sure to only take the recommended dosage or the dosage set by your doctor in order to reduce the risk of side effects.
There are no known side effects associated with taking saffron supplements. However, there may be interactions between this product and other medications you’re currently taking.
If you notice any changes in your mood or behavior after using this product, stop taking it immediately and consult your doctor.
Who Should Buy Saffron Supplements?
Saffron has become an increasingly popular supplement used as a natural alternative for treating a variety of health problems. Studies show that saffron extract contains powerful compounds that are believed to be effective in promoting health and wellbeing.
Some people that may benefit from saffron supplements include; those who experience low mood and suffer from symptoms of depression, lack of energy, struggle with their weight, and find it difficult to maintain focus and concentration.
Those looking to improve their sex drive and performance may also benefit from saffron supplementation.
What to look for?
When choosing a saffron supplement, make sure that you purchase one that provides high-quality ingredients and standardized extracts.
Look out for products that contain 100% pure saffron extract, rather than ones that contain safflower oil.
Also, be sure to check the label for information about how much saffron is contained within each serving. You can also ask questions about the company’s manufacturing process and the sourcing of their raw materials.
Where Can I Buy the Products Listed?
The 3 best saffron supplements can be found on their manufacturer site or at Amazon.com.
Takeaway
The stigma of the saffron plant has been used for thousands of years for therapeutic purposes as a natural remedy for treating depression, anxiety, insomnia, and stress.
Known for containing a host of beneficial properties, clinical studies show that saffron may also be effective in promoting weight loss, enhancing mood, and increasing energy levels.
With saffron still a widely used natural remedy, it can most commonly be found in supplement form.
There stand to be numerous significant benefits of saffron. Not only can saffron supplements be easily incorporated into a diet, but they also stand to be a considerably safe and natural alternative to synthetic medicines.
If you’re thinking of implementing saffron supplements in your daily routine, it serves to be an effective natural alternative to synthetic medication.
Besides its therapeutic benefits, it is also nutrient-rich and holds a great source of antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
If you are considering trying saffron supplements as a natural alternative, be sure to seek advice from your doctor and follow the recommended dosage of the product or the dosage suggested by your physician.
