Saffron (Affron®)

Saffron (Affron®) 

Overview
Affron® is a clinically studied saffron (Crocus sativus L.) extract standardized for its active compounds, crocin and safranal. Research has demonstrated its ability to support mood balance, emotional wellbeing, sleep quality, and relief from some menopausal symptoms. In clinical settings, Affron® is typically administered at a total daily dose of 28 mg, either as 14 mg twice daily or 28 mg once daily for 4 to 12 weeks.

Mood Support
Several double-blind, placebo-controlled studies have shown that Affron® helps improve mood and reduce feelings of stress and mild anxiety. In adults with low mood, a 4-week study using 28 mg/day demonstrated improved emotional balance and reduced negative mood states compared to placebo (Kell et al., Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 2017). In adolescents aged 12–16 with mild anxiety and depressive symptoms, an 8-week study using 14 mg twice daily found significant improvement in self-reported internalizing symptoms (Lopresti et al., Journal of Affective Disorders, 2018).

Sleep Quality
Affron® has been shown to promote restful sleep and improve overall sleep quality. In a 28-day randomized controlled trial, adults who consumed 14 mg or 28 mg of Affron® one hour before bedtime reported better sleep quality, increased melatonin levels, and improved morning mood compared to placebo (Lopresti et al., Sleep Medicine, 2021).

Menopausal Support
A 12-week clinical study in perimenopausal women demonstrated that 14 mg twice daily of Affron® significantly improved mood, reduced irritability, and alleviated feelings of anxiety and depression compared to placebo (Lopresti & Smith, Journal of Menopausal Medicine, 2021). These results highlight Affron® as a natural option for supporting emotional balance during the menopausal transition.

Mechanisms of Action
Saffron’s key bioactive compounds are believed to enhance serotonergic activity, increase antioxidant capacity, and modulate neuroendocrine pathways involved in mood, stress, and sleep regulation. These effects are attributed to the synergistic action of crocin, crocetin, picrocrocin, and safranal (Hosseinzadeh & Nassiri-Asl, Phytotherapy Research, 2013).

Safety and Tolerability
Across human clinical studies, Affron® has been shown to be well tolerated with no serious adverse events. Reported effects are mild and transient, typically including minor digestive discomfort at rates similar to placebo.

Conclusion
Affron® is a scientifically validated saffron extract that supports emotional wellbeing, sleep quality, and menopausal balance. Backed by multiple peer-reviewed clinical trials, it provides a safe and natural approach to maintaining mood and vitality through life’s transitions.

Key References

• Kell, G., et al. (2017). Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 33, 58–64.

• Lopresti, A. L., et al. (2018). Journal of Affective Disorders, 232, 349–357.

• Lopresti, A. L., Smith, S. J. (2021). Journal of Menopausal Medicine, 27(2), 85–92.

• Lopresti, A. L., et al. (2021). Sleep Medicine, 84, 362–369.

• Hosseinzadeh, H., Nassiri-Asl, M. (2013). Phytotherapy Research, 27(5), 637–645.