Meta Information
ID:saffron
Name:Saffron
Schema Version:2.4_uniform_evidence_2026_06_18
Created
2026-05-21T22:30:00Z
Model
phase-a-upgrade-claude-sonnet-4.6
Interactions
Target id:
/condition/pregnancy
Target name:
Pregnancy
Severity:
major
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
High doses of saffron can stimulate uterine contractions and have traditionally been used as an abortifacient; it is not considered safe during pregnancy.
Actionable advice:
Saffron extract should be strictly avoided during pregnancy.
Validation status:
anecdotal
Evidence tier:
tier_d
Evidence basis:
anecdotal_summary
Evidence anchors:
Exact phrase from label:
Larger amounts of saffron can make the uterus contract and might cause a miscarriage.
Label source:
Anecdotal: WebMD
Action type:
avoid
Target id:
/procedure/scheduled-surgery
Target name:
Scheduled Surgery
Severity:
major
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
temporal
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
336
Hours after target:
null
Description:
Saffron's potential effects on blood clotting, blood pressure, and sedation could interfere with surgical procedures and anesthesia.
Actionable advice:
Saffron extract should be discontinued at least 2 weeks before any scheduled surgery.
Validation status:
unvalidatable
Evidence tier:
tier_e
Evidence basis:
unvalidatable
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Scientific literature support not found
Exact phrase from label:
Label source:
Action type:
avoid
Target id:
/class/serotonergic-agents
Target name:
Serotonergic Medications (SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs)
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Saffron may increase serotonin levels in the brain, and combining it with other serotonergic drugs could theoretically increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially serious condition.
Actionable advice:
It is important to consult a doctor before combining with serotonergic medications; it is a good idea to monitor for symptoms like agitation or rapid heart rate.
Validation status:
validated_via_primary_literature
Evidence tier:
tier_b
Evidence basis:
primary_literature_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Escitalopram, a pharmacological compound, and crocin, the active compound of saffron, influence brain functions and serotonin levels.
Label source:
PubMed: Comparing the Efficacy of Escitalopram with and without Crocin in Restoring I/O Functions and LTP within the Hippocampal CA1 Region of Stressed Rats. (PMID 39717236)
Action type:
monitor
Target id:
/class/anticoagulants-antiplatelets
Target name:
Anticoagulant and Antiplatelet Drugs
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Saffron may have mild antiplatelet (blood-thinning) effects, which could add to the effects of these medications, increasing the risk of bruising and bleeding.
Actionable advice:
This is best used with caution, and it is important to talk to a doctor when taking blood-thinning medications like warfarin, clopidogrel, or aspirin.
Validation status:
validated_via_fda_label
Evidence tier:
tier_a
Evidence basis:
fda_label_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Check your baby for bruising or bleeding if you take COUMADIN and breastfeed.
Label source:
Action type:
informational_none
Target id:
/class/antihypertensives
Target name:
Antihypertensive Medications
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Saffron may lower blood pressure. Taking it alongside medications designed to lower blood pressure could cause an additive effect, leading to hypotension (blood pressure that is too low).
Actionable advice:
Blood pressure should be monitored closely, and it is important to talk to a doctor if combining saffron with blood pressure medications.
Validation status:
validated_via_primary_literature
Evidence tier:
tier_b
Evidence basis:
primary_literature_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Our results showed that saffron supplementation resulted in a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure (weighted mean difference (WMD): -0.65 mmHg; 95% CI: -1.12 to -0.18, p = 0.006) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (WMD: -1.23 mmHg; 95% CI: -1.64 to -0.81, p < 0.001).
Label source:
PubMed: The Effect of Saffron Supplementation on Blood Pressure in Adults: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. (PMID 34444896)
Action type:
monitor
Target id:
/class/antidiabetic-medications
Target name:
Diabetes Medications
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Saffron may lower blood sugar levels. Combining it with diabetes medications could increase the risk of hypoglycemia (abnormally low blood sugar).
Actionable advice:
Blood glucose levels are best monitored carefully, and it is important to consult a doctor if using saffron alongside diabetes medications.
Validation status:
validated_via_fda_label
Evidence tier:
tier_a
Evidence basis:
fda_label_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Therefore, a lower dose of insulin or insulin secretagogue may be required to minimize the risk of hypoglycemia when used in combination with metformin hydrochloride [see Drug Interactions (7) ].
Label source:
Action type:
monitor
Target id:
/class/cns-depressants
Target name:
CNS Depressants (e.g., Benzodiazepines, Opioids) (Central)
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Saffron can have sedative effects. Combining it with other central nervous system depressants can lead to excessive drowsiness, sedation, and impaired coordination.
Actionable advice:
This is best avoided or used with extreme caution when taking other sedative medications or substances.
Validation status:
validated_via_pubmed
Evidence tier:
tier_b
Evidence basis:
pubmed_abstract_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
These plants act on the central nervous system, particularly the serotonergic and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic systems, promoting sedation and relaxation.
Label source:
PubMed: Phytotherapy research : PTR (2024)
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Compared to the placebo, saffron supplementation was associated with greater improvements in sleep quality ratings (primary outcome measure), mood ratings after awakening, the ISQ total score, and ISQ-insomnia classifications.
Label source:
PubMed: Sleep medicine (2021)
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Monoamine reuptake inhibition, N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonism, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-α agonism are the main proposed mechanism of the antidepressant action.
Label source:
PubMed: Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland) (2022)
Action type:
avoid
Target id:
/condition/bleeding-disorders
Target name:
Bleeding Disorders
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Due to its potential antiplatelet effects, saffron may worsen bleeding in individuals with pre-existing bleeding disorders like hemophilia.
Actionable advice:
Saffron is best avoided with a bleeding disorder, or used only with medical approval.
Validation status:
unvalidatable
Evidence tier:
tier_e
Evidence basis:
unvalidatable
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Scientific literature support not found
Exact phrase from label:
Label source:
Action type:
avoid
Target id:
/condition/hypotension
Target name:
Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Saffron can lower blood pressure, which may cause symptoms like dizziness or fainting in people who already have low blood pressure.
Actionable advice:
This is best used with caution, and it is a good idea to monitor for symptoms in those with a history of low blood pressure.
Validation status:
unvalidatable
Evidence tier:
tier_e
Evidence basis:
unvalidatable
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Scientific literature support not found
Exact phrase from label:
Label source:
Action type:
monitor
Target id:
/condition/lactation
Target name:
Breastfeeding (Lactation)
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
There is insufficient reliable information about the safety of taking saffron while breastfeeding; its components may pass into breast milk.
Actionable advice:
Saffron extract is best avoided while breastfeeding due to a lack of safety data.
Validation status:
anecdotal
Evidence tier:
tier_d
Evidence basis:
anecdotal_summary
Evidence anchors:
Exact phrase from label:
There isn't enough reliable information to know if saffron is safe to use when breast-feeding in amounts greater than those found in food.
Label source:
Anecdotal: WebMD
Action type:
avoid
Target id:
/class/herbal-anticoagulants
Target name:
Herbal Anticoagulants (Ginkgo, Garlic, Ginger)
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Combining saffron with other supplements that have blood-thinning properties can have an additive effect, increasing the overall risk of bleeding.
Actionable advice:
Caution is warranted when combining saffron with other supplements known to affect blood clotting.
Validation status:
unvalidatable
Evidence tier:
tier_e
Evidence basis:
unvalidatable
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Scientific literature support not found
Exact phrase from label:
Label source:
Action type:
informational_none
Target id:
/class/glucose-lowering-supplements
Target name:
Glucose-Lowering Supplements (Berberine, Cinnamon)
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Saffron's blood sugar-lowering effect can be additive with other supplements that do the same, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia.
Actionable advice:
Blood sugar levels should be monitored closely if combining saffron with other glucose-lowering supplements.
Validation status:
validated_via_primary_literature
Evidence tier:
tier_b
Evidence basis:
primary_literature_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Saffron and fenugreek have been shown to have an effect on lowering blood glucose; therefore, this study aims to evaluate the effects of using saffron and fenugreek on blood glucose control.
Label source:
PubMed: Effect of saffron and fenugreek on lowering blood glucose: A systematic review with meta-analysis. (PMID 36992660)
Action type:
monitor
Target id:
/dietary/meal
Target name:
Any Caloric Meal
Severity:
minor
Interaction type:
informational
Nature:
temporal
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Taking saffron extract with food can help minimize the risk of mild gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea or stomach upset.
Actionable advice:
Saffron extract is generally best taken with a meal for better tolerability.
Validation status:
validated_via_pubmed
Evidence tier:
tier_b
Evidence basis:
pubmed_abstract_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Minor adverse effects were noted for 31 HMs: Thymus vulgaris, Lavandula angustifolia Miller, Boswellia serrata, Calendula officinalis, Harpagophytum procumbens, Panax ginseng, Vitex agnus-castus, Crataegus spp., Cinnamomum spp., Petasites hybridus, Agave americana, Hypericum perforatum, Echinacea spp., Silybum marianum, Capsicum spp., Genus phyllanthus, Ginkgo biloba, Valeriana officinalis, Hippocastanaceae, Melissa officinalis, Trigonella foenum-graecum, Lagerstroemia speciosa, Cnicus benedictus, Salvia hispanica, Vaccinium myrtillus, Mentha spicata, Rosmarinus officinalis, Crocus sativus, Gymnema sylvestre, Morinda citrifolia and Curcuma longa.
Label source:
PubMed: Clinical medicine (London, England) (2013)
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
There were no serious adverse reactions reported.
Label source:
PubMed: The Journal of nutrition (2025)
Action type:
informational_none
Target id:
/circadian/sleep
Target name:
Going to Sleep
Severity:
minor
Interaction type:
synergistic
Nature:
temporal
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
2
Hours after target:
null
Description:
Saffron is often studied for its benefits on sleep quality. Taking it in the evening may align its effects with your natural sleep cycle.
Actionable advice:
Consider taking your dose 1-2 hours before bedtime to support sleep quality.
Validation status:
validated_via_pubmed
Evidence tier:
tier_b
Evidence basis:
pubmed_abstract_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Compared to the placebo, saffron supplementation was associated with increases in evening melatonin concentrations but did not affect evening cortisol.
Label source:
PubMed: Sleep medicine (2021)
Action type:
separate
Target id:
/class/cyp3a4-substrates
Target name:
CYP3A4 Substrates
Severity:
minor
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Saffron may mildly inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme in the liver, potentially increasing the concentration and effects of drugs metabolized by this pathway.
Actionable advice:
This theoretical interaction is worth keeping in mind when taking medications metabolized by CYP3A4; consulting a pharmacist if unsure may help.
Validation status:
validated_via_fda_label
Evidence tier:
tier_a
Evidence basis:
fda_label_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
However, strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir)
may increase the plasma concentrations of amlodipine to a greater extent.
Label source:
Action type:
informational_none
Target id:
/class/cyp2c9-substrates
Target name:
Drugs Metabolized by CYP2C9
Severity:
minor
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Saffron may mildly inhibit the CYP2C9 enzyme, which could increase levels of certain drugs like warfarin or some NSAIDs, though clinical significance is low.
Actionable advice:
This theoretical interaction is worth keeping in mind when taking medications metabolized by CYP2C9; consulting a pharmacist if unsure may help.
Validation status:
validated_via_fda_label
Evidence tier:
tier_a
Evidence basis:
fda_label_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Warfarin is thought to interfere with clotting factor synthesis by inhibition of the C1 subunit of vitamin K epoxide reductase (VKORC1) enzyme complex, thereby reducing the regeneration of vitamin K1 epoxide [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.5)].
Label source:
Action type:
informational_none
Target id:
/class/cyp2c19-substrates
Target name:
CYP2C19 Substrates
Severity:
minor
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Saffron may mildly inhibit the CYP2C19 enzyme, potentially increasing levels of drugs like omeprazole or clopidogrel, though clinical significance is low.
Actionable advice:
This theoretical interaction is worth keeping in mind when taking medications metabolized by CYP2C19; consulting a pharmacist if unsure may help.
Validation status:
validated_via_fda_label
Evidence tier:
tier_a
Evidence basis:
fda_label_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
CYP2C19 Substrates (e.g., clopidogrel, citalopram, cilostazol, phenytoin, diazepam) Clopidogrel Concomitant use of omeprazole 80 mg results in reduced plasma concentrations of the active metabolite of clopidogrel and a reduction in platelet inhibition [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Label source:
Action type:
informational_none
Target id:
/class/qt-prolonging-agents
Target name:
QT-Prolonging Medications
Severity:
minor
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
While not well-established, there is a theoretical concern that high doses of saffron could affect heart rhythm. Combining it with drugs known to prolong the QT interval may pose an additive risk.
Actionable advice:
This is best used with caution, and it is worth talking to a doctor when taking medications known to affect the QT interval.
Validation status:
unvalidatable
Evidence tier:
tier_e
Evidence basis:
unvalidatable
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Scientific literature support not found
Exact phrase from label:
Label source:
Action type:
informational_none
Target id:
/dietary/alcohol-acute
Target name:
Alcohol (Acute Consumption)
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
null
Description:
Saffron's sedative properties can be amplified by alcohol, leading to increased drowsiness and impairment.
Actionable advice:
Alcohol is best avoided close to the time saffron extract is taken.
Validation status:
validated_via_class_inference
Evidence tier:
tier_c
Evidence basis:
class_inference_summary
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Established mechanism / class pharmacology (no single primary source quoted)
Exact phrase from label:
Pharmacodynamic inference: saffron's sedative properties can be amplified by alcohol, increasing drowsiness/impairment. Low-evidence caution.
Label source:
Class inference
Action type:
avoid
Derived From
saffron-extract
Provenance Note
Interactions duplicated from 'saffron-extract'. Synonym.