In the fight against ADHD symptoms, saffron offers results comparable to methylphenidate while offering a favorable safety profile. Studies show comparable effects, improved sleep, and fewer side effects. Its antioxidant and neuroprotective action opens a promising natural avenue, complementing our rehabilitation programs.

Saffron for ADHD: does it work?

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Link to the original article in English (full of ads): https://www.healthline.com/health/adhd/saffron-for-adhd

Saffron is much more than just a food spice. Used in traditional medicine for centuries, research suggests it could have modern applications for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in children. It is characterized by symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity that can affect interpersonal relationships and daily functioning.

Many people diagnosed with ADHD, including adults, benefit from medications that help reduce symptoms and improve concentration. A growing number of studies suggest that some of these benefits could also be achieved through the use of the natural spice, saffron.

Potential supported by clinical studies

To date, no large-scale study has demonstrated that saffron can effectively reduce ADHD symptoms. This doesn't mean saffron is ineffective. Several small-scale studies indicate that saffron has potential, either as a stand-alone therapy or as a complement to improve the effects of usual ADHD medications, such as methylphenidate.

Methylphenidate, known under brand names like Ritalin and Concerta, is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD treatment. It belongs to the central nervous system stimulant class, which works by regulating brain chemicals supposedly responsible for ADHD symptoms.

In 2019, a landmark pilot study highlighted saffron versus methylphenidate in the ADHD community. Researchers found that 20 to 30 mg of saffron per day for 6 weeks were comparable to methylphenidate treatment for inattention and hyperactivity symptoms.

Since then, other research has supported saffron's benefits for ADHD. A 2022 study revealed that saffron was more effective than methylphenidate in reducing ADHD hyperactivity symptoms, although methylphenidate was more effective for inattention symptoms. Both therapies improved participants' sleep duration, a frequent challenge in ADHD, but only saffron helped facilitate falling asleep.

When used in combination with methylphenidate in a 2021 clinical trial, saffron proved more effective than methylphenidate alone. These results were confirmed by a 2022 clinical trial, which also concluded that the combination of saffron and methylphenidate was superior.

Despite these promising results, larger-scale research on saffron for ADHD is needed. All current studies have involved groups of less than 100 participants.

How does saffron work?

The precise mechanisms explaining why saffron might work in ADHD aren't clear, but they could be related to neurotransmitters associated with ADHD and the spice's neuroprotective properties. Imbalances of certain neurotransmitters play an important role in ADHD, which is why stimulant medications are effective. Saffron could act as a therapeutic agent by stimulating brain chemicals, like glutamate and dopamine, similarly to methylphenidate.

How saffron protects neurological function could also play a role. A 2022 review explains that saffron has consistently demonstrated protective effects against neurological disorders. Many of these benefits come from the spice's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation.

Oxidative stress is a state of imbalance in the body, where highly reactive molecules called "free radicals" surpass antioxidants, which help regulate them. Oxidative stress causes damage at the cellular level and can contribute to many disease processes. According to a 2018 review, using antioxidants like saffron for ADHD treatment could protect against damage to neurons involved in neurodevelopmental disorders.

Dosage and available forms

As an experimental therapy, there is no universal dosage for saffron in ADHD. Recommendations for dietary supplements vary by supplier and can reach 100 mg per day orally. The landmark 2019 study found that 20 to 30 mg per day in children aged 6 to 17 years were effective for inattention and hyperactivity symptoms from 3 weeks. The 2022 clinical trial combining saffron with methylphenidate used 15 mg of saffron twice daily for 6 weeks.

Saffron can be purchased in powder form, capsules or filaments, the dried stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower.

Side effects and precautions

When taken at the recommended dose, saffron appears to have a high safety margin, although more human research is needed. Side effects reported with saffron use include:

• Vomiting

• Vertigo

• Dizziness

• Loss of appetite

• Headaches

• Blood in urine

• Nausea

• Allergic reaction

Saffron should be used with caution in pregnant women, as it can cause uterine stimulation. It's best to consult a healthcare professional before taking saffron for ADHD.

Conclusion

Saffron for ADHD is an emerging research area, but the evidence is promising. Saffron could help stimulate brain chemicals involved in ADHD, and its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties could help protect neurological function.

Given that little information is available on the appropriate saffron dosage specifically for ADHD treatment, consulting a doctor can help develop a safe therapeutic plan to integrate this spice.

Note from our functional medicine specialist

Commentary on the original article above.

Side effects of saffron (in overdose)

Studies that administered up to 100 mg/day of saffron (orally) did not report serious effects, but side effects increase beyond the 30 mg/day dose in some sensitive individuals.

Effects reported in overdose:

• Headaches

• Nausea

• Vertigo, dizziness

• Loss of appetite

• Agitation or drowsiness

• Vomiting

• Blood in urine (rare cases and not systematically confirmed)

• Allergic reactions (rare)

• Risk of uterine stimulation (contraindicated in pregnancy)

These effects are transient, reversible upon discontinuation, and generally mild if the dose is reasonably exceeded. No addictive, cardiovascular or psychiatric effects have been reported to date with saffron.

Side effects of methylphenidate (at normal dose)

Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) is effective but has a well-documented side effect profile, even at therapeutic doses.

Frequent effects:

• Loss of appetite, weight loss

• Sleep disorders (difficulty falling asleep, insomnia)

• Headaches

• Nervousness, anxiety, irritability

• Abdominal pain, nausea

• Tachycardia, increased blood pressure

• Rebound effects at end of day (irritability, agitation)

Less frequent but serious effects:

• Motor or vocal tics

• Psychiatric disorders (suicidal ideation, hallucinations, manic episodes)

• Cardiovascular disorders (severe hypertension, arrhythmias)

• Dependence or misuse (especially in adolescents and adults)

These effects may require treatment discontinuation or close medical monitoring.

In our opinion

Saffron, even in case of slight overdose, has a significantly more favorable and mild safety profile than methylphenidate at normal dose. This doesn't mean it's superior in efficacy, but it could represent an interesting alternative or complement for families concerned about limiting side effects. Its use, like that of any active agent, must nevertheless be medically supervised.

Disclaimer: The information in this article does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before taking saffron or any other ADHD treatment.