Saffron vs Turmeric
for mood
Stronger evidence: Saffron
Stronger effect: Saffron
Safety: Turmeric carries a moderate 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
Turmeric
grade C low certainty
curcumin may reduce depressive symptoms as an adjunct; bioavailability-limited
500–1000 mg curcumin/day, adults with depression
sources: PMID:10000003 · PMID:42186284