Saffron is most known for being one of the most expensive spices in the world. While this is completely true, there is a lot more to this pricey spice, including a fact that may surprise you! Did you know that saffron is great for supporting individuals with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? 

What is Saffron?

Before we explore its impact on ADHD, let's uncover more about Saffron. The spice comes from a flower called crocus sativus—commonly known as the "saffron crocus." Today, saffron is mostly grown in Iran, Greece, Morocco, and India. The flower of which it is harvested blooms but once a week for a week, and produces only 3 threads of saffron, which have to be taken off by hand. This is what makes it so expensive and special! 

If you haven’t had the chance to taste it yet, Saffron is subtle yet fragrant spice. It has a little hint of sweetness, but the truth is: it’s hard to describe it! Most chefs would agree that it pairs best with savory dishes. 

Throughout time, saffron has been favored for many health concerns including reproductive health, skin concerns, baldness, hair loss, and breathing issues. To learn more about saffron spices' impressive health benefits, check out our blog piece 8 Health Benefits of Saffron. 

Saffron for ADHD & ADD

When it comes to the treatment of ADHD, most people opt for a combination of stimulant medication and behavioral therapy paired with an active and healthy lifestyle. However, around 30% of people do not respond well to stimulant medication and herbal medicine, including saffron, is a strong and viable option. 

There has also been plenty of research and work done with saffron as a treatment for mental health issues including depression and anxiety. In fact, Saffron’s therapeutic properties have been scientifically proven in numerous animal and human studies, yielding great results with memory enhancement, anti-depressant, anti-anxiety, and neuroprotection. 

This varied research has uncovered saffron therapeutic elements, with its impressive ability to increase the reuptake inhibition of dopamine and norepinephrine. One important study, which can still be considered primary, determined that during their 6-week study, in which young people aged 6–17 years, with ADHD were treated with saffron, showed the same efficacy as methylphenidate (aka Ritalin, a very popular medication) in children with ADHD. 

Moreover, there was no concern in terms of saffron’s side effects on those in the study and it was considered a strong alternative for young people with ADHD. 

Brain Booster+ and Saffron

One of the main ingredients in our beloved Kids Brain Booster+ for children 5 and up, is saffron! The vitamin’s benefits can be felt within only 2 weeks, gently reducing anxiety and elevating focus and attention, making it the perfect and gentle choice for children living with ADHD. What’s more, the Brain Booster+ is completely natural with select ingredients that are free of peanuts, gluten, artificial sweeteners, dairy, eggs, and soy. 

Try our All-Natural, Vegan & Kosher Kids Brain Booster+ today! Available on our website or Amazon.com (Search for "NutriMagic Kids Brain Booster")