Specialties & Diseases > Family Medicine

A psychiatrist’s go-to supplement for boosting memory and sexual function

By Anastasia Climan, RDN, CD-N | Fact-checked by Davi Sherman

Published February 25, 2025

Key Takeaways

Industry Buzz

“There are 25 randomized controlled trials showing [this supplement] helps with mood, sexual function, and memory.” — Daniel Amen, MD

“In terms of looking for high-quality supplements, here are two important items: Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and third-party verification.” — Daniel Amen, MD

Psychiatrist Daniel Amen, MD, a popular physician influencer, revealed in a video that he takes saffron supplements every day—and has been doing so for the past 5 years. He says there are 25 randomized control trials that support saffron’s ability to help with mood, sexual function, and memory. Based on the looks of it, he may be right.

Saffron is a spice that comes from Crocus sativus L., a flower that originated in Greece.^[] While it may be one of the most expensive spices you can buy from the grocery store, it is rich in carotenoids, which give saffron its vibrant color and distinct taste.

Here’s why it works

Saffron lowers inflammation and oxidative stress, showing promise for a range of human health concerns.^[] Specifically, it’s been shown to decrease TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL -6, -12, and more.

It also down-regulates pro-inflammatory enzymes, like inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and phospholipase A2, and has been shown to reduce CNS inflammation, showing promise for patients hoping to ward off dementia and neurodegeneration.^[]

It blocks free radical production and boosts antioxidant action in the extracellular signal-related kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2). It also increases glutathione production by enhancing gamma-glutamylcysteine synthase activity. The antidepressant effects of saffron have been attributed to the brain’s gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and opioid systems.^[]

Can saffron actually help?

It’s hard to deny saffron’s appeal for boosting the brain and body. Aside from most supplements' cost and quality concerns, saffron shows consistent benefits and minimal safety issues.^[]

In a meta-analysis of 12 studies, saffron trumped placebos and was shown to be as effective as synthetic antidepressants for mild to moderate depression symptoms.^[] The findings of seven meta-analyses also reported that saffron intake significantly lowered Beck Depression Inventory scores (but not scores on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale scores).^[]

Researchers have also examined saffron’s impact on sexual function. A meta-analysis and systematic review of five studies observed significant positive effects on erectile dysfunction, arousal, and lubrication.^[]

CO Ultimately, saffron can’t replace comprehensive medical care for mental or sexual dysfunction. But there’s mounting evidence that it could be a stand-in for antidepressants or improve patients’ sex lives.

Safety refresher

Saffron is used in food, and it’s nontoxic for humans at a maximum dose of 1.5 grams.^[] Intake of more than 5 grams at a time is toxic, and a dose of approximately 20 grams per day is considered lethal.

Adverse effects for saffron were similar to those of placebos and typical antidepressants. Some adverse effects associated with saffron use include flushing, excessive sweating, insomnia, malaise, vomiting, and rash.

However, higher miscarriage rates in pregnant saffron field workers contraindicate saffron supplementation during pregnancy.^[]