Curcumin (from turmeric) and saffron are spices believed to have several health benefits and are receiving increased attention for the treatment of a range of health problems. Recent research has shown that both these spices have mood-lifting effects and there are promising findings for the treatment of depression.
The aim of this study is to investigate the antidepressant effects of either curcumin only capsules, or a combination of curcumin and saffron capsules for the treatment of people with depression. As a result, we are seeking volunteers to participate in this 12 week study.
Volunteers must be aged between 18 and 65 years, be living within 60kms of the Perth metropolitan region (travel to Murdoch University is not required), be of good general health, and not currently taking any medications (except for antidepressant medications or the contraceptive pill). Volunteers will be randomly allocated to take either (1) curcumin, (2) curcumin/saffron, or (3) placebo capsules daily for 12 weeks and be willing to participate in a 20-minute interview with the investigator (by phone). They must also be willing to complete brief questionnaires every 4 weeks and provide a morning urine and blood sample at the beginning and end of the study. These samples will be collected in the comfort of your home, so no travel is required.
This is a study undertaken through Murdoch University and has been approved by the Murdoch University Human Research Ethics Committee. (Approval No: 2014/241)
For further information or to express your interest, contact Dr Adrian Lopresti on email: [email protected] or phone 08 9248 6904
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