Standardized saffron extract (UO SAF 02) improves mood and sleep quality in adults with low mood and subclinical to mild depressive symptoms
In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 56 adults with low mood and BDI scores of 10-20 received 15 mg of standardized saffron extract (UO SAF 02) or placebo for 56 days. The saffron group showed significant improvements in mood (POMS score reduction of -48.46 vs -5.67, p < 0.0005), sleep quality (PSQI, p < 0.05), and reduced serum cortisol levels (p < 0.05) compared to placebo.
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Standardized saffron extract (UO SAF 02) improves mood and sleep quality in adults with low mood and subclinical to mild depressive symptoms The current body of evidence comprises 1 study, including 1 randomized controlled trial. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 44/100 (low).
The Claim
Standardized saffron extract (UO SAF 02) improves mood and sleep quality in adults with low mood and subclinical to mild depressive symptoms
This conclusion is most relevant to: Adults aged 18-65 years with self-reported low mood and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) scores of 10-20 (subclinical to mild depressive symptoms).
What the Research Shows
The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:
- ▸Standardized Saffron Extract Formulation for Low Mood and Subclinical Depressive Symptoms: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. (Cureus, 2026) —
How It Works
The proposed biological pathway:
- ▸Saffron extract modulates neurotransmitter systems (e.g., serotonin, dopamine)
- ▸Reduces hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity
- ▸Decreases serum cortisol levels
- ▸Result: Improved mood and sleep quality
Who Might Benefit
Evidence fit by population:
- ▸Adults aged 18-65 years with self-reported low mood and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) scores of 10-20 (subclinical to mild depressive symptoms)
Recommended Dose
15 mg daily
Limitations & Caveats
Important context when interpreting this evidence:
- ▸Small sample size (n=56) limits generalizability
- ▸Short duration (56 days) does not assess long-term efficacy or safety
- ▸Self-reported low mood may introduce selection bias
- ▸No active comparator (e.g., standard antidepressant) was used
Frequently Asked Questions
What is UO SAF 02?▼
UO SAF 02 is a standardized saffron extract formulation, each capsule containing 15 mg of active compounds, tested for mood and sleep improvement in adults with subclinical depressive symptoms.
How was sleep quality measured in this study?▼
Sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), a validated self-report questionnaire, and showed significant improvement in the saffron group compared to placebo (p < 0.05).
Is saffron extract safe for long-term use?▼
In this 56-day trial, no serious adverse events were reported, but longer-term safety beyond 8 weeks was not evaluated.
Can saffron extract replace antidepressants?▼
No, this study only tested saffron in individuals with subclinical to mild depressive symptoms (BDI 10-20), not major depression, and it should not replace prescribed medications without medical advice.
References
- 1.Shah S, Shah N, Shah J, S D, S J, Sudha Rani P. “Standardized Saffron Extract Formulation for Low Mood and Subclinical Depressive Symptoms: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial..” Cureus, 2026. PMID: 42465135 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.110935