Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and major depressive disorder: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

doi:10.3736/jintegrmed2013056

Paper

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and major depressive disorder: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

Published Nov 1, 2013 · H. Hausenblas, Debbie Saha, P. Dubyak

Journal of integrative medicine

Q1 SJR score

146

Citations

5

Influential Citations

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Abstract

BACKGROUND Due to safety concerns and side effects of many antidepressant medications, herbal psychopharmacology research has increased, and herbal remedies are becoming increasingly popular as alternatives to prescribed medications for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). Of these, accumulating trials reveal positive effects of the spice saffron (Crocus sativus L.) for the treatment of depression. A comprehensive and statistical review of the clinical trials examining the effects of saffron for treatment of MDD is warranted. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis of published randomized controlled trials examining the effects of saffron supplementation on symptoms of depression among participants with MDD. SEARCH STRATEGY We conducted electronic and non-electronic searches to identify all relevant randomized, double-blind controlled trials. Reference lists of all retrieved articles were searched for relevant studies. INCLUSION CRITERIA The criteria for study selection included the following: (1) adults (aged 18 and older) with symptoms of depression, (2) randomized controlled trial, (3) effects of saffron supplementation on depressive symptoms examined, and (4) study had either a placebo control or antidepressant comparison group. DATA EXTRACTION AND ANALYSIS Using random effects modeling procedures, we calculated weighted mean effect sizes separately for the saffron supplementation vs placebo control groups, and for the saffron supplementation vs antidepressant groups. The methodological quality of all studies was assessed using the Jadad score. The computer software Comprehensive Meta-analysis 2 was used to analyze the data. RESULTS Based on our pre-specified criteria, five randomized controlled trials (n = 2 placebo controlled trials, n = 3 antidepressant controlled trials) were included in our review. A large effect size was found for saffron supplementation vs placebo control in treating depressive symptoms (M ES = 1.62, P < 0.001), revealing that saffron supplementation significantly reduced depression symptoms compared to the placebo control. A null effect size was evidenced between saffron supplementation and the antidepressant groups (M ES = -0.15) indicating that both treatments were similarly effective in reducing depression symptoms. The mean Jadad score was 5 indicating high quality of trials. CONCLUSION Findings from clinical trials conducted to date indicate that saffron supplementation can improve symptoms of depression in adults with MDD. Larger clinical trials, conducted by research teams outside of Iran, with long-term follow-ups are needed before firm conclusions can be made regarding saffron's efficacy and safety for treating depressive symptoms.

Meta-Analysis

Highly Cited

Study Snapshot

Saffron supplementation can improve symptoms of depression in adults with major depressive disorder, but larger, long-term studies are needed for confirmation.

PopulationOlder adults (50-71 years)

Sample size24

MethodsObservational

OutcomesBody Mass Index projections

ResultsSocial networks mitigate obesity in older groups.

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Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and major depressive disorder: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

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References

Saffron, passionflower, valerian and sage for mental health.

Saffron, passionflower, valerian, and sage may have potential as alternative herbal treatments for mental health issues.

Comorbid cardiovascular disease and major depression among ethnic and racial groups in the United States

Comorbid cardiovascular disease is common among middle-aged and older US adults with major depression, with Blacks having the highest rates, but treatment differences between races and comorbidities were not significant.

Validity and clinical utility of the current operational characterization of major depression

The current operational definition of major depression needs refinement, including a more precise boundary, melancholia subtype, and contextual exclusion criteria.

Effects of the active constituents of Crocus Sativus L., crocins, in an animal model of obsessive–compulsive disorder

Crocins, active constituents of Crocus Sativus L., effectively reduce excessive self-grooming in rats, suggesting a potential role for crocins in compulsive behavior and serotonergic system interaction.

Depression epidemiology and its treatment evolution.

Depression treatment has evolved over the past century, with newer treatments offering improved safety and tolerability, but some older medications may need reconsideration for newer, safer options.

Citations

A standardised saffron extract improves subjective and objective sleep quality in healthy older adults with sleep complaints: results from the Gut-Sleep-Brain Axis randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study

Saffron supplementation improves both subjective and objective sleep quality in older adults with sleep complaints, while increasing gut bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids.

An ethnopharmacological study and the therapeutic reference values of phytomedicines used for relieving minor CNS disorders

Herbal medicines, particularly anise, chamomile, ginger, and lemon balm, show potential in treating minor CNS disorders, but enhancing trust in healthcare is crucial.

Nutrition for Mental Health: Guidance for Clinical Practice

Nutritional interventions can complement psychopharmacology and psychotherapy in improving mental health by focusing on dietary patterns, gut microbiome health, and individual nutrients.

Plants with Potential Importance in Supporting the Treatment of Depression: Current Trends, and Research

Saffron, turmeric, ginkgo, St. John's Wort, and passionflower show promising results in preventing and treating anxiety and depression, with potential benefits from their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Efficacy of Brahmi vati and Aswagandharista (Ayurvedamedication) in major depressive disorder: A randomized controlled trial

Brahmi vati and Aswagandharista show significant improvements in major depressive disorder management, comparable to escitalopram, with additional advantages in quality of life and side effects profile.