Saffron, derived from the dried stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower, is the world’s most expensive spice, used globally for its distinct color and flavor. Beyond culinary applications, saffron has been utilized in traditional medicine for centuries, leading many new mothers to consider it for postpartum support. When breastfeeding, any substance consumed must be evaluated for its potential to transfer into breast milk and affect the infant. Determining if saffron supplements or high-dose preparations are appropriate during lactation requires examining the chemical properties of its active compounds and the limited available research.
Saffron’s Active Components and Milk Transfer
Saffron’s therapeutic effects are attributed primarily to three active compounds: crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal. The transfer of substances from a mother’s blood into breast milk is governed by molecular size, lipid solubility, and protein binding. Compounds that pass easily into milk generally have a small molecular weight, high lipid solubility, and low protein binding.
The primary coloring agent, alpha-crocin, is a water-soluble carotenoid with a large molecular weight (approximately 977 grams per mole). This large size typically restricts its ability to cross biological membranes, suggesting alpha-crocin is unlikely to transfer significantly into breast milk. Conversely, safranal, which provides saffron its characteristic aroma, is a small, volatile molecule with a molecular weight of about 150 grams per mole.
Safranal’s small size and high lipid solubility strongly suggest it would readily transfer into milk, similar to other volatile oils. Crocetin, the fat-soluble metabolite of crocin, has a molecular weight of 328 grams per mole, which is also small enough to allow some passage. Although the exact concentration of these compounds in human breast milk is unknown, the properties of safranal and crocetin indicate that some exposure to the nursing infant is probable following maternal consumption.
Current Medical Consensus on Safety
Medical and herbal safety organizations maintain a cautious stance on saffron use during lactation, citing insufficient reliable information to confirm safety beyond normal culinary amounts. This advice reflects the lack of large, controlled clinical trials on herbal supplements in breastfeeding populations. Therefore, professional guidance defaults to recommending avoidance of high-dose supplements.
A few small human studies have investigated saffron use in nursing mothers with postpartum depression. These studies found that saffron extract (15 to 30 milligrams per day) was effective for mild-to-moderate depression without reported adverse effects on mothers or infants. While this suggests moderate supplementation may be tolerated, these findings are not yet sufficient to overturn conservative warnings. The recommendation remains to limit intake to culinary amounts until more comprehensive safety data is available.
Common Reasons for Use During Postpartum
Mothers often seek saffron during the postpartum period due to its historical use and research supporting its mood-regulating properties. Its primary appeal relates to documented effects on mood stabilization and anxiety reduction.
Studies indicate that saffron extract may alleviate symptoms of mild-to-moderate depression and anxiety, which are common concerns following childbirth. New mothers also frequently experience significant sleep disruption, and saffron has shown potential in improving sleep quality in adults. Addressing mood and sleep, saffron is used for the general emotional and mental wellness of the mother.
Practical Considerations and Safe Usage
Mothers using saffron must recognize the difference between culinary use and supplemental dosage. Typical culinary amounts involve only a few strands, which is considered a low dose. Therapeutic supplemental dosages used in studies range from 20 to 30 milligrams of extract daily, representing a much higher concentration.
A major safety concern is the high risk of adulteration in saffron supplements, as the spice is expensive. Products may be bulked up with cheaper plant materials or synthetic dyes, introducing unknown substances. Choosing a high-quality product that is third-party tested and standardized to active compounds is an important risk mitigation strategy.
The mother must monitor the infant closely for any signs of reaction, as safranal likely transfers into milk. Indicators for discontinuing use include increased drowsiness, changes in feeding patterns, unusual irritability, or gastrointestinal upset in the baby. Before starting any supplement, consulting with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) or a medical doctor is advisable to discuss potential risks and benefits.