Saffron and skullcap: a natural synergy for the mood
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A recent study highlights the potential mood-enhancing benefits of saffron and skullcap
In a clinical study involving 180 male and female participants with mild to moderate depressive symptoms, the effects of saffron (Crocus sativus) and skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) were evaluated.
For six weeks, participants received either:
- skullcap extract alone,
- saffron extract alone
- or a combination of the two,
- or a placebo.
The results confirmed saffron's positive effects on depressive and anxiety symptoms, as well as on sleep quality.
For the first time in human clinical trials, skullcap showed a beneficial effect on mood regulation.
Most interestingly, the combination of the two extracts showed a synergistic effect, significantly improving emotional well-being and reducing anxiety-depressive symptoms compared to placebo.
This study confirms the potential of natural approaches as complements to conventional treatments for mood disorders. It paves the way for future research into the mechanisms of action of these extracts and their long-term safety.
More information
Dormal, V., Suchareau, M., Copine, S., Simar, L., & Deldicque, L. (2025). The Effects of Combined Scutellaria and Saffron Supplementation on Mood Regulation in Participants with Mild-to-Moderate Depressive Symptoms: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. Nutrients, 17(5), 809. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17050809