Effect of saffron on depression, anxiety and mood disorder: a GRADE assessed systematic review and meta-analysis of 34 randomized controlled trials

A total of 34 RCTs comprising 1769 participants were included. Saffron supplementation significantly reduced scores on BDI (14 trials; 817 participants; WMD = -4.39, 95% CI: -6.64 to -2.15, <i>p</i> < 0.001, I2 = 92.3%) and the BAI (6 trials; 339 participants; WMD = -5.06, 95% CI: -8.44 to -1.68, <i>p</i> = 0.003, I2 = 94.8%). No significant effects were observed for the HDRS, HARS, or POMS. The certainty of evidence was rated as moderate according to the GRADE Working Group criteria.In conclusion, the findings suggest that saffron supplementation may be an effective complementary intervention for reducing self-reported depressive and anxiety symptoms in adults. Lack of clinician-rated effects underscores need for high-quality trials.