There is no doubt the disruption caused to our lives over the past 6 months has for many had a major effect on our mental health. Unfortunately  I fear we are going to be experiencing major disruption in our lives for some time to come, which is why I have been so keen to research further into the possible benefits of saffron when it comes to treating mild depression and anxiety.

Further to my article last week I was interested to find additional research on the potential treatment of adolescent depression and anxiety with saffron. 

One researcher, Dr Adrian Lopresit from the School of Psychology and Exercise Science at Murdoch University was interested in a holistic approach when treating mental health problems. Mindful of the positive research in treating adults suffering from mild depression with saffron, he explored the benefits of saffron in treating anxiety and depression in adolescents.

An 8-week randomised, double blind, placebo-controlled study was undertaken of 80 adolescents aged from 12 to 16 years who were suffering mild to moderate depression. The results indicated those taking the saffron supplement reported lower depressive, anxiety and social phobia symptoms. (1)

It is often believed the cause of depression and anxiety may be related to a chemical imbalance in the brain, and particularly low levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin. There is now a belief there may be a connection between depression and inflammation.

Saffron is thought to be a natural anti-inflammatory as well as having antioxidant properties, eradicating free radicals from our body. A combination of these antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may well help improve these neurotransmitters.

The obtain the best results it is suggested taking a therapeutic dosage in a saffron capsule or tablet.

We also need to be mindful overcoming mental health problems is not just about taking a tablet. As we know gut health is important and eating a wholesome diet is extremely important as well as undertaking physical exercise and maintaining good sleep patterns.

For more information call down to see Bev and the team at Go Vita your health shop in 5 North St in Batemans Bay. Don’t forget to tune into Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.30pm.

1. Affron, a standardised extract from saffron (Crocus sativus L) for the treatment of youth anxiety and depressive symptoms: A randomised double blind placebo-controlled study . Lopresti AL, Drummond PD, Inarejos-Garcia AM, Prodanoc M.   J Affect Disord 2018 May;232:349-357. Doi:10.1016/j.jad 2018.02.070 Epub 2018 Feb 26