Saffron for Postpartum

Breastfeeding mothers suffering from postpartum depression who prefer to consume herbal medicine rather than chemical drugs (due to the numerous adverse effects of antidepressants) prompted a recent trial to assess the effects of saffron on mothers suffering from mild-to-moderate postpartum depressive disorder.

We already know that studies reveal that saffron rivals Prozac in effectively treating moderate depression, offering a promising alternative devoid of the typical side effects associated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as weight gain, heightened suicide risk, and emotional numbness.

A double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled trial was conducted on 60 new mothers who suffer from postpartum depression. They were randomly assigned to take the placebo or saffron (30mg/day).

The results revealed that saffron decreased the severity of mild-to-moderate depression, with no significant adverse effects on breastfeeding mothers. Saffron also had higher response and remission rates than the placebo. This evidence suggests that saffron is a safe alternative medication that can successfully reduce the symptoms of postpartum depression.

Another clinical trial investigated mothers suffering from PPD where participants were randomized to receive either a capsule of saffron (30mg/day) or fluoxetine (40/mg day) over a span of 6 weeks. The results found saffron to be a safe alternative medication for improving depressive symptoms of postpartum depression.

Research underscores saffron's antidepressant effects at just 30mg daily. Our Kinder Thoughts® saffron capsules are formulated with 30mg of clinically studied saffron extract along with a therapeutic dose of curcumin to ensure the most effective mood enhancement and antidepressant support in a single supplement.

Disclaimer: If you are currently taking SSRIs, do not abruptly quit the medication. Quitting SSRIs, even at small doses, all at once can result in drastic withdrawal effects. Talk to your doctor about tapering off the medication until you’re free of it. During the process, it’s crucial to keep loved ones informed of how you’re feeling on a daily basis. Share with your doctor information about integrative therapies for depression such as restoring gut health, hormone balancing, dietary changes, meditation, and others.