Saffron vs 5-HTP

for mood

Stronger evidence: Saffron

Stronger effect: Saffron

Safety: 5-HTP carries a serious interaction; Saffron has none recorded.

For mood, Saffron has the stronger evidence grade.

grade B moderate certainty

multiple RCTs show benefit for mild-to-moderate depressive symptoms, comparable to low-dose SSRIs in small trials

30 mg/day, adults with mild-moderate depression

grade C low certainty

preliminary antidepressant signal; small, lower-quality studies

sources: PMID:10000003 · PMID:00000035