Satiereal Saffron
Also known as: Saffron, Satiereal Saffron, Saffron extract, Crocus sativus L.
Overview
Satiereal Saffron is a proprietary extract derived from the stigmas of Crocus sativus, commonly known as saffron. It is primarily utilized as a dietary supplement for its potential to enhance mood, control appetite, and assist in weight management. The extract contains key bioactive compounds such as crocin, safranal, and picrocrocin, which are believed to be responsible for its therapeutic effects. Over the past two decades, research on saffron and its extracts, including Satiereal, has significantly advanced, with numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses investigating its efficacy across various psychological and behavioral outcomes. While the quality of evidence varies, several well-designed RCTs and systematic reviews support its use for mood disorders and appetite regulation. It is classified as a botanical supplement or herbal extract.
Benefits
Satiereal Saffron offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily in mood improvement and appetite control. A meta-analysis of five clinical trials indicated that saffron supplementation significantly improved depressive symptoms compared to placebo, demonstrating efficacy comparable to standard antidepressants. For appetite control and weight management, some RCTs suggest saffron extract may reduce snacking and promote satiety, contributing to weight loss or management, although its effects on food craving are less consistent. Secondary benefits reported in some trials include improvements in premenstrual syndrome symptoms and sexual dysfunction. Adults with mild-to-moderate depression, overweight individuals with depressive symptoms, and those with excessive snacking behaviors have shown particular benefit in controlled trials. The meta-analysis reported statistically significant reductions in depression scores (p < 0.05), with effect sizes comparable to standard antidepressants. Benefits on mood and appetite typically manifest within 4 to 12 weeks of consistent supplementation.
How it works
Saffron's bioactive compounds, primarily crocin and safranal, exert their effects by modulating key neurotransmitter systems, including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are crucial for mood regulation. Additionally, saffron possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may contribute to neuroprotective effects. Its role in appetite regulation is thought to involve the modulation of satiety hormones and central nervous system pathways, though the precise mechanisms are still under investigation. The oral bioavailability of saffron constituents is moderate, and standardized extracts like Satiereal are designed to ensure consistent dosing of these active compounds, thereby maximizing their therapeutic potential.
Side effects
Saffron extracts, including Satiereal, are generally well-tolerated and have a good safety profile in clinical trials. Common side effects, reported in over 5% of users, are mild and include gastrointestinal discomfort, headache, or dizziness, though these are not significantly more frequent than with placebo. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) may include fatigue or dry mouth. Rare side effects (less than 1%) are not well-documented, and no serious adverse events have been reported in high-quality randomized controlled trials. Caution is advised regarding potential drug interactions; limited data suggest a need for caution when combined with antidepressants or blood thinners due to possible additive effects. Saffron is contraindicated in pregnancy due to its potential uterine stimulant effects, and in individuals with a known allergy to saffron. Safety in children and pregnant women has not been established, and therefore, its use in these populations is not recommended.
Dosage
Clinical trials commonly utilize a minimum effective dose of 15 mg twice daily, totaling 30 mg per day, of standardized saffron extract for mood and appetite effects. The optimal dosage range appears to be between 15–30 mg/day. Doses up to 30 mg/day are generally well-tolerated, while higher doses have not been extensively studied in randomized controlled trials. To maintain steady blood levels, divided doses (e.g., morning and evening) are typical. Using standardized extracts like Satiereal is crucial to ensure a consistent content of active compounds. For optimal absorption, it is best taken with food; no specific cofactors are required to enhance its absorption. The maximum safe dose for long-term use beyond 12 weeks has not been definitively established.
FAQs
Is Satiereal Saffron safe for long-term use?
Current evidence supports its safety for up to 12 weeks; however, longer-term studies are limited, so caution is advised for extended use.
How soon can mood improvements be expected?
Mood improvements typically begin within 4 weeks of consistent supplementation, with continued benefits observed up to 12 weeks.
Can it replace antidepressants?
While evidence suggests comparable efficacy for mild-to-moderate depression, Satiereal Saffron should not replace prescribed medication without medical supervision.
Does it help with weight loss?
It may reduce snacking and promote satiety, thereby aiding in weight management as an adjunct to a healthy lifestyle.
Are there any known drug interactions?
Potential interactions exist with antidepressants and anticoagulants, warranting caution and consultation with a healthcare professional.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2020.606124/full – This meta-analysis of five RCTs demonstrated significant antidepressant effects of saffron extract compared to placebo, noting good compliance and tolerability with no serious adverse events. The study highlighted limitations such as small sample sizes and short durations (up to 12 weeks).
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5747362/ – This systematic review of 12 RCTs found saffron effective for depression, premenstrual syndrome, sexual dysfunction, and snacking behaviors. It emphasized the need for larger, multi-site trials, while noting that included studies had adequate controls and statistical significance.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9464341/ – This review of clinical trials reported dose-dependent improvements in mood and anxiety with saffron extract (28 mg/day) in healthy individuals with low mood. The authors noted small sample sizes and some methodological limitations in the included trials.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jcpt.13040 – This double-blind, placebo-controlled RCT (n=73 overweight women with mild-to-moderate depression) found that 30 mg/day saffron for 12 weeks improved depressive symptoms but did not significantly reduce food cravings. The study utilized appropriate statistical analysis.