Psychological And Neuroendocrinological Effects Of Odor Of Saffron (Crocus Sativus)
| Effect | Decrease |
| Trial Design | Double blind |
| Trial Length | 24 hours |
| Number of Subjects | 47 |
| Sex | Female |
| Age Range | 18-29, 30-44 |
Usage of saffron as aromatherapy in otherwise healthy women was able to reduce circulating cortisol and increase estrogen (no influence on testosterone) to a mild degree, and this was associated with a mild reduction in anxiety as assessed by STAI.
This study attempted a double-blind experiment as control was given ethanol whereas the experimental group was given a concentration of saffron below the detectable aromatic limit, with experimenters blind to the treatment. Aroma exposure was 20 minutes.
