A new large-scale clinical study, published in The Journal of Nutrition (May 2025), has confirmed that Affron®, Pharmactive’s standardized saffron extract, can help improve emotional balance in individuals experiencing symptoms of low mood. With over 200 participants, this is the most ambitious study conducted with this ingredient to date.
The research focused on adults showing symptoms of mild depression, a common and often underdiagnosed condition that can interfere with quality of life. Over a 12-week period, participants received a daily dose of 28 mg of Affron® or a placebo. Symptoms were assessed using validated scales for mood, anxiety, stress, and sleep quality.
Key study findings
- 72% of participants taking Affron® experienced a significant improvement in emotional wellbeing, compared to 54% in the placebo group. This improvement was reflected in an average 53% reduction in emotional symptom scores, as measured by the validated DASS-21 scale.
- Improvements began to emerge as early as the fifth week.
- Among individuals with more pronounced sleep disturbances at baseline, clear improvements in sleep quality were also observed.
“This is our most robust trial to date,” explains Dr. Inés Morán, Scientific Studies Manager at Pharmactive. “Designed with a larger sample size and extended duration, it allowed us to confirm the efficacy and safety of Affron® under conditions that more closely reflect real-world use.”
A unique saffron extract
Affron® is a saffron extract derived from Crocus sativus L., standardized to a minimum of 3.5% Lepticrosalides®, its main active compounds. It is obtained through a proprietary and clean technology that avoids the use of organic solvents and protects the full bioactive potential of the extract.
In addition to its clinical efficacy, Affron® stands out for:
- Its rapid absorption, with detectable effects within the first hour.
- Its low effective daily dose: 28 mg per day (or 14 mg one hour before bedtime when used for sleep support).
- Its proven safety profile across diverse groups, including adolescents and menopausal women.
- Its strong scientific foundation, with 11 published clinical studies.
From tradition to science
Saffron has been used for centuries to support general wellbeing. Today, thanks to the in-depth research on Affron®, modern science helps us better understand its mechanisms of action — from neurotransmitter modulation to anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and HPA axis–regulating effects.
Affron® represents the bridge between traditional knowledge and evidence-based innovation. A natural and proven option for those seeking to improve their emotional balance safely and effectively.
