Research suggests that Saffron enhances mood by modulating levels of brain serotonin, possibly by inhibiting serotonin reuptake, as well as altering levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. Clinical research shows that taking a specific saffron extract 15 mg twice daily significantly improves symptoms of PMS after two menstrual cycles. Saffron’s compound crocin improves learning and memory and protects brain receptor responses by a mechanism involving antioxidant effects.