Research Gist
Earlier studies of curcumin and mood were limited by small numbers, short durations and similar doses. This larger randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial set out to address those gaps. It enrolled 123 adults diagnosed with major depressive disorder and compared four groups: placebo, a lower dose of curcumin, a higher dose of curcumin, and a lower dose of curcumin combined with saffron. The study used a high-bioavailability curcumin extract and a standardized saffron extract, and was prospectively registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry. All three active treatments were more effective than placebo in reducing both mood-related and anxiety symptoms. There were no significant differences between the two curcumin doses, or between curcumin alone and the curcumin–saffron combination.
Key Learnings
- All active curcumin treatments reduced mood-related symptoms more than placebo.
- Anxiety symptoms were also reduced compared with placebo.
- The lower and higher curcumin doses performed similarly.
- Adding saffron did not produce a greater effect than curcumin alone.
- The study used a high-bioavailability curcumin extract and self-rated questionnaires — larger studies are recommended.