Saffron to treat PMS
This is the first study of saffron to treat premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in humans.
First, the details.
- Women, 20 to 45 years old, with regular menstrual cycles and PMS for at least 6 months were studied.
- After monitoring the women for 2 menstrual cycles, they were randomly assigned to take saffron capsules 30 mg/day (15 mg morning and evening) or placebo for an additional 2 menstrual cycles.
- Neither the researchers nor the women knew the treatment given (blinded).
And, the results.
- At the end of the study, 76% of the women taking saffron had a 50% or greater reduction in PMS symptoms, vs 8% of the women taking placebo, a significant difference.
- There were significant differences between groups in the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale scores — a 21-question multiple choice questionnaire used to rate the severity of a patient’s depression.
The bottom line?
It’s a small study, but deserves to be followed-up with another.
5/8/08 22:10 JR