Effect of saffron supplementation on symptoms of depression and anxiety: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Context: Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) has gained interest as a potential treatment in psychiatry. Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis sought to investigate the effect of saffron supplementation, as both an adjunctive therapy and monotherapy, on symptoms of depression and anxiety in clinical and general populations compared with pharmacotherapy or placebo. Data sources: Using the PRISMA guidelines, a systematic literature review of randomized controlled trials was conducted. Data extraction: A meta-analysis was conducted to determine treatment effect. Risk of bias was assessed using the Jadad scale. Results: Twenty-three studies were included. Saffron had a large positive effec..