Saffron

Also known as crocus sativus, saffron extract, safron.

Last reviewed October 9, 2026 · Jump to references

What is Saffron?

In plain words

Saffron is a spice made from the dried red parts of the saffron crocus flower. The gut breaks down some of its natural compounds into forms the body can absorb. Researchers study saffron extracts for mood, sleep, and eye health. Some small human studies suggest benefits, but larger, longer studies are needed to establish how well they work and their long-term safety.

Technical definition

Saffron is a botanical material derived from the dried stigmas of Crocus sativus flowers; its constituents include crocins, crocetin, picrocrocin, and safranal. Crocins are converted in the intestine to crocetin before absorption, and preclinical research suggests effects on monoamine signaling, oxidative stress, and inflammatory pathways rather than a single established receptor target. Saffron is used as a food spice and marketed in dietary supplements, but it is not FDA-approved to treat disease.

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Evidence by use

Each use is rated on its own. There is no single overall effectiveness score.