Saffron has been shown to improve learning and memory in rats with alcohol-induced problems. It improved the hippocampal mechanism for memory called long-term potentiation.

Stress is a major cause of learning and memory defects, mainly because it causes a buildup of free radicals and lipid peroxidation products in the hippocampus.

An animal study showed that saffron extract could prevent the stress from causing memory problems and improve learning and memory retention.

The saffron significantly elevated antioxidant molecules such as glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase — all powerful brain antioxidants.

Saffron also lowered cortisone, which is thought to be a major player in stress-induced memory impairment.