Saffron vs Omega-3
for mood
Stronger evidence: Saffron
Stronger effect: Saffron
Safety: Omega-3 carries a serious interaction; Saffron has none recorded.
For mood, Saffron has the stronger evidence grade.
Saffron
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
Omega-3
grade C moderate certainty
small benefit for depressive symptoms, clearest with higher-EPA formulations
1–2 g EPA, adults with depression
sources: PMID:10000003 · PMID:20000102