Saffron, a natural approach to relieve ADHD?

In the quest for natural solutions to relieve attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), saffron stands out for its neuroprotective and soothing properties. This ancient remedy, often nicknamed "red gold," is attracting growing interest as a complementary or alternative option to traditional drug treatments.

ADHD, a challenge for families

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects millions of children and adults worldwide. In France, approximately 5% of children are affected by this disorder, which manifests itself by difficulty concentrating, marked impulsiveness and, often, hyperactivity . Although medications such as methylphenidate (better known as Ritalin) are commonly prescribed, these pharmacological treatments are often accompanied by unwanted side effects such as sleep disturbances , loss of appetite or cardiovascular disorders .

Faced with these limitations, many families are turning to natural alternatives . Among them, saffron ( Crocus sativus ) is attracting growing interest thanks to its calming properties and positive effects on mental health .

Please note : ADHD can also impact self-esteem, academic success and social life, further highlighting the need for comprehensive and personalized support.

Saffron: a thousand-year-old treasure with multiple benefits

Saffron, often nicknamed "red gold" due to its rarity and value, is a precious spice extracted from the stigmas of the crocus plant. Traditionally used in Persian and Ayurvedic medicine, it is renowned for its antioxidant , anti-inflammatory , and neuroprotective properties.

But what makes saffron so special?

Two major bioactive compounds, crocin and safranal , are central to saffron's health benefits . Crocin, a powerful antioxidant , plays a vital role in protecting brain cells from oxidative stress , while safranal acts as a modulator of neurotransmitters, including dopamine and serotonin. These neurotransmitters are crucial for regulating mood , attention, and emotional impulses .

In addition to these major compounds, saffron contains :

• Flavonoids and other phytonutrients that support the immune system
• Vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and manganese, promote proper metabolism.

Mechanisms of action of saffron in ADHD

ADHD is characterized by a disruption of the neural circuits linked to dopamine and norepinephrine. Saffron acts on several levels to improve these dysfunctions:

1. Neurotransmitter modulation : Saffron stimulates the production of dopamine, essential for motivation and attention, while increasing serotonin levels, which helps regulate emotions and reduce impulsivity.

2. Antioxidant properties : Crocin neutralizes free radicals, thus protecting brain cells from oxidative damage, often seen in people with ADHD.

3. Reduced inflammation : Studies suggest that brain inflammation may play a role in ADHD. Saffron, thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects, helps calm these reactions.

These mechanisms, combined with good tolerance, explain the growing interest in saffron as a complementary or alternative natural solution.

Clinical studies: saffron as effective as Ritalin?

Several recent studies have focused on the potential of saffron in treating ADHD. Here are some key studies:

1. Comparative trial with methylphenidate (2019)* : An Iranian team conducted a randomized study involving 54 children and adolescents with ADHD. For six weeks, one group received 20 to 30 mg of saffron daily, while the other group took methylphenidate. The results revealed that saffron was as effective as conventional treatment in reducing ADHD symptoms, with comparable side effects. ( Source )

2. Effect of saffron combined with methylphenidate : One study compared the use of methylphenidate alone to a combination of methylphenidate and saffron in children with ADHD. Participants receiving 20 or 30 mg of saffron daily, adjusted for weight, experienced faster and more pronounced improvement in symptoms after 4 weeks, compared to the methylphenidate-only group ( Khaksarian et al., 2021 ).
   
   
3. Saffron Extract and Mental Health (2022) : Another study explored the effect of a standardized saffron extract (“Saffr'Activ”) in children with ADHD. After eight weeks, participants showed significant improvement in attention and reduced impulsivity, with no major side effects. ( Source )

Benefits and Limitations of Saffron

The strong points of saffron :

• A milder side effect profile than stimulant medications.

• A natural and multi-target action on brain functions.

• An interesting alternative for parents looking for less invasive solutions.

• Possibility of combining with other therapeutic approaches (psychotherapy, speech therapy, etc.) without major risk of conflict.

However, some limitations must be taken into account:

• The high cost of saffron can be a deterrent for some families.

• Available studies have small sample sizes , requiring further large-scale research.

• When taking medication, medical supervision is essential to avoid potential drug interactions .

• The quality of saffron extracts varies greatly between brands, making selecting a reliable product essential.

How to use saffron for ADHD?

The recommended dosage in clinical studies is between 20 and 30 mg per day. Here are some tips for optimal use:

1. Prefer standardized extracts : Saffron supplements sold in pharmacies or online should indicate the concentration of crocin and safranal to ensure their effectiveness.

2. Consult a healthcare professional : Before introducing saffron into your child's routine, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

3. Combine saffron with a holistic approach : A balanced diet, a stable routine, and relaxing activities perfectly complement the benefits of saffron.

Perspectives and conclusions

Saffron, thanks to its neuroprotective properties and its ability to modulate neurotransmitters, represents a promising natural alternative for the relief of ADHD symptoms . Although current studies are encouraging, it is essential to continue exploring this avenue through more extensive and rigorous research.

By taking an individualized approach and working hand in hand with health professionals, families can discover in saffron a calming and effective solution to improve the quality of life of people with ADHD .

The importance of quality saffron extract

The patented saffron extract Safr'Inside™ stands out as an exceptional solution for the natural treatment of ADHD thanks to its unique concentration of active compounds, including a safranal level ten times higher than that of other extracts on the market (0.43% compared to less than 0.05% for most others). This result, achieved through the exclusive Tech'care extraction™ and encapsulation process, guarantees optimal preservation of key metabolites, thus reinforcing its neuroprotective and soothing efficacy. These characteristics make Safr'Inside™ a powerful and innovative option, particularly suited to meet the needs of people suffering from ADHD, while offering a natural and well-tolerated alternative to conventional treatments.

Focus on Délicure's B6 saffron gummies:

To integrate the benefits of saffron into a daily routine, our sugar-free gummies , enriched with patented saffron and vitamin B6, offer a natural and tasty solution. Our patented saffron, Safr'Inside™, is the only encapsulated saffron extract preserving the entire molecular spectrum of saffron with the highest concentration of safranal on the market, thanks to an innovative extraction process. These characteristics guarantee optimal effectiveness in improving emotional balance, promoting relaxation and supporting a positive mood, while helping with concentration, particularly in cases of attention disorders. Suitable from the age of 4, vegan and gluten-free, our gummies are a natural option to support children and adults in managing ADHD