Saffron and ADHD: A Promising Natural Support for Attention and Hyperactivity

Written By April Grant, M.S., Resident in Counseling

Saffron is best known for its role in gourmet cooking, adding rich flavor and golden color to dishes. But in recent years, researchers have been exploring another side to this vibrant spice—its potential to support brain health and attention. Early studies suggest that saffron (Crocus sativus L.) may help reduce symptoms of ADHD, including difficulties with focus, restlessness, and impulsivity (Baziar et al., 2019; Khaksarian et al., 2021; Blasco-Fontecilla et al., 2022; Pazoki et al., 2022).

Why Saffron is Being Studied for ADHD

ADHD is usually managed with behavioral strategies, environmental supports, and stimulant medications like methylphenidate (MPH). While effective for many, some individuals experience side effects, incomplete symptom relief, or simply want additional non-pharmaceutical options.

Saffron contains natural compounds such as crocin, crocetin, and safranal, which may influence dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. Dopamine and norepinephrine are the primary brain chemicals targeted by most ADHD medications, while all three play roles in ADHD symptoms and related emotional regulation. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit overall brain function (Baziar et al., 2019).

What the Studies Have Found

Baziar et al. (2019) – In children ages 6–16, saffron capsules (20–30 mg/day) worked as well as methylphenidate in reducing both inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. Parents and teachers noted similar improvements between the two treatments.

Khaksarian et al. (2021) – When saffron was combined with methylphenidate, children showed greater overall symptom improvement than with medication alone, and hyperactivity/impulsivity improved more quickly.

Blasco-Fontecilla et al. (2022) – In Spanish children and teens aged 7–17, saffron (Saffr’Activ® extract) outperformed methylphenidate for reducing hyperactivity, while methylphenidate was slightly better for inattention. The saffron group also reported falling asleep faster and having fewer sleep difficulties.

Pazoki et al. (2022) – Adults with ADHD who took saffron alongside methylphenidate reported better attention, organization, and reduced restlessness on self-report measures. However, these improvements were not as clearly reflected in clinician ratings, suggesting benefits may be subjective or take longer to appear.

Symptoms Most Often Improved in Studies

  • Reduced restlessness and fidgeting (Baziar et al., 2019; Khaksarian et al., 2021)

  • Lower impulsivity and fewer interruptions in conversation (Baziar et al., 2019; Khaksarian et al., 2021)

  • Improved ability to sustain focus and complete tasks (Baziar et al., 2019; Pazoki et al., 2022)

  • Better sleep onset in at least one pediatric study (Blasco-Fontecilla et al., 2022)

  • Possible emotional regulation benefits (reported anecdotally in multiple trials)

Things to Keep in Mind

Most studies lasted 4–8 weeks and used doses of 15–30 mg/day of saffron extract.
One study used a standardized product (Saffr’Activ®), while others used non-branded saffron capsules.
Side effects were minimal in these trials, but saffron should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider (Baziar et al., 2019; Khaksarian et al., 2021; Blasco-Fontecilla et al., 2022; Pazoki et al., 2022).
Saffron is not a substitute for proven ADHD therapies but may be a useful complementary option.

The Bottom Line

While the research is still limited, saffron shows promise as a natural support for ADHD, especially for reducing hyperactivity, impulsivity, and sleep challenges. If you or your child are considering saffron as part of an ADHD treatment plan, talk with a healthcare professional to determine if it’s a safe and appropriate addition.


References

Baziar, S., Aqamolaei, A., Hosseini, S. A., Kermani, T., & Akhondzadeh, S. (2019). Comparing the efficacy and safety of Crocus sativus L. with methylphenidate in the treatment of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A randomized, double-blind, parallel-group clinical trial. Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology, 29(8), 615–621. https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/cap.2018.0146

Khaksarian, M., Nemati, Z., & Jafari, M. (2021). Effect of saffron extract as an add-on therapy to methylphenidate on the symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Iranian Journal of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, 15(1), e108390. https://doi.org/10.5812/ijpbs.108390

Blasco-Fontecilla, H., Moyano-Ramírez, E., Méndez-González, O., Rodrigo-Yanguas, M., Martin-Moratinos, M., & Bella-Fernández, M. (2022). Effectivity of saffron extract (Saffr’Activ) on treatment for children and adolescents with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): A clinical effectivity study. Nutrients, 14(19), 4046. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14194046

Pazoki, M., Hosseini, S. A., & Akhondzadeh, S. (2022). Efficacy and safety of saffron as adjunctive therapy in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Primary Care Companion for CNS Disorders, 24(1), 21m03074. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aimed.2022.01.002

April Grant, M.S., Resident in Counseling
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