Research · Meta-analysis
Comparative efficacy and safety of Crocus sativus L. for treating mild to moderate major depressive disorder in adults: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
What it found
Saffron significantly outperformed placebo (SMD −1.22) and was statistically no different from synthetic antidepressants, with a good safety profile.
- Design
- Meta-analysis
- Year
- 2018
- Population
- adults with mild-to-moderate major depression (7 RCTs)
- Intervention
- saffron vs placebo or synthetic antidepressants
- Outcome
- change in depression severity
- Journal
- Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment
Citation last checked 2026-06-21.