Saffron vs. SSRIs for Depression and Anxiety: Meta-Analysis
Does saffron work as well as SSRIs for depression and anxiety?
Yes. Saffron produces equivalent effectiveness to SSRIs for both depression and anxiety, with approximately 6% fewer adverse events. A meta-analysis of 8 randomized controlled trials found no significant difference in symptom reduction between saffron and SSRIs, while saffron demonstrated superior safety.
Saffron works by blocking serotonin reuptake similar to SSRIs, while also providing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects through active compounds like crocin, crocetin, and safranal.