Research
Saffron
86 peer-reviewed studies curated from PubMed and Semantic Scholar.
Studies
Sorted by quality and recency
An Examination into the Effects of a Saffron Extract (Affron) on Mood and General Wellbeing in Adults Experiencing Low Mood: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.
RCT of 202 adults with depressive symptoms comparing 28 mg saffron extract (Affron) to placebo for 12 weeks. Saffron was associated with greater improvements in depression scores and sleep disturbances in a subset of participants with severe sleep issues. No serious adverse reactions were reported.
Effect of saffron supplementation on oxidative stress markers (MDA, TAC, TOS, GPx, SOD, and pro-oxidant/antioxidant balance): An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of saffron supplementation on oxidative stress markers in randomized controlled trials. Saffron consumption significantly decreased MDA and TOS levels and increased TAC and GPx levels, indicating beneficial effects on oxidative stress markers.
Effect of Crocus sativus L. (saffron) and crocin in the treatment of patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of Crocus sativus (saffron) and crocin in patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus. Saffron extract and crocin improved glycemic and metabolic parameters, with saffron extract showing effectiveness in more parameters without adverse effects. Further high-quality research is needed due to moderate risk of bias in many studies.
The effect of Saffron supplementation on waist circumference, HA1C, and glucose metabolism: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs assessing saffron supplementation effects on waist circumference, fasting plasma glucose, and HA1C. Saffron significantly reduced waist circumference and fasting plasma glucose, especially with interventions longer than twelve weeks, but had no significant effect on HA1C levels.
Safety and Efficacy of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) for Treating Mild to Moderate Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
Systematic review and meta-analysis assessing the safety and efficacy of saffron in treating mild to moderate depression. Saffron showed better efficacy in improving depressive symptoms compared to placebo and was as effective as synthetic antidepressants, with no significant difference in adverse effects.
Saffron for mild cognitive impairment and dementia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials
Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs assessing saffron's effects on mild cognitive impairment and dementia. Saffron significantly improved cognitive function compared to placebo, with no significant difference compared to conventional medicine. No serious adverse events were reported.
Effects of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Systematic review and meta-analysis of eight RCTs examining the effect of saffron supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers in adults. Overall, saffron supplementation did not result in significant changes in serum CRP, TNF-α, and IL-6 concentrations, though subgroup analyses showed some reductions under specific conditions.
A standardised saffron extract improves subjective and objective sleep quality in healthy older adults with sleep complaints: results from the gut-sleep-brain axis randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study.
This randomised, placebo-controlled pilot study investigated the impact of four weeks of saffron supplementation (30 mg/day) on sleep quality and gut microbiota in older adults with sleep complaints. Saffron supplementation significantly improved subjective sleep quality and sleep efficiency, reduced latency to persistent sleep, and modulated gut microbiota composition, particularly increasing short-chain fatty acids producing bacteria.
Effect of saffron extract supplementation on mood in healthy adults with subclinical symptoms of depression: a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study.
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluated the efficacy of a 6-week saffron extract supplementation on mood in 51 healthy individuals with subclinical neuropsychiatric symptoms. Saffron extract did not significantly affect the primary outcome of combined depressive, anxiety, and fatigue symptoms but improved autoperceived mental health scores over time compared to placebo.
Therapeutic Potential of Saffron Extract in Mild Depression: A Study of Its Role on Anhedonia in Rats and Humans.
The study investigated the antidepressant and anti-anhedonic effects of saffron extract in both preclinical models and patients with unipolar or bipolar depression. In rats, saffron restored motivation and reactivity to reward-associated cues, likely modulating dopaminergic transmission and BDNF-TrkB signaling. In a pilot double-blind placebo-controlled study, saffron add-on therapy over 8 weeks improved depressive symptoms and reduced anhedonia in patients.
An examination into the mental and physical effects of a saffron extract (affron®) in recreationally-active adults: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.
This 6-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study examined the effects of a standardized saffron extract (affron) on mental and physical outcomes in 62 recreationally active adults. While no significant differences were found overall, male participants taking saffron showed increased exercise enjoyment and heart rate variability compared to placebo, suggesting potential benefits for males.
The effects of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) in conjunction with concurrent training on body composition, glycaemic status, and inflammatory markers in obese men with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized double‐blind clinical trial
Randomized double-blind clinical trial assessing the anti-inflammatory effects of saffron supplementation and concurrent training in obese men with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The study aimed to evaluate changes in body composition, glycaemic status, and inflammatory markers.
An investigation into an evening intake of a saffron extract (affron®) on sleep quality, cortisol, and melatonin concentrations in adults with poor sleep: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multi-dose study.
RCT of 120 adults with unsatisfactory sleep comparing placebo to 14 mg or 28 mg of saffron extract (affron) for 28 days. Saffron supplementation improved sleep quality ratings, mood ratings after awakening, and increased evening melatonin concentrations compared to placebo. No significant adverse effects were reported.
Effects of Saffron Extract on Sleep Quality: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Clinical Trial.
A randomized double-blind controlled trial with 66 subjects assessed the effects of saffron extract (15.5 mg per day) on sleep quality over 6 weeks. Saffron supplementation improved sleep quality, sleep latency, sleep duration, and global scores compared to placebo, as measured by actigraphy and sleep questionnaires.
Effects of Saffron Extract Supplementation on Mood, Well-Being, and Response to a Psychosocial Stressor in Healthy Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel Group, Clinical Trial
This randomized, double-blind, parallel group clinical trial assessed the effects of 8 weeks' supplementation with 30 mg standardized saffron extract on mood and stress resilience in 56 healthy adults. Participants receiving saffron reported reduced depression scores and improved social relationships. Saffron supplementation increased urinary crocetin levels and attenuated stress-induced decreases in heart rate variability.
Saffron improves life and sleep quality, glycaemic status, lipid profile and liver function in diabetic patients: A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomised clinical trial
This double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised clinical trial investigated the effects of saffron supplementation on dietary intake, anthropometric measures, mood, sleep quality, and metabolic biomarkers in overweight/obese patients with type 2 diabetes. Saffron improved life and sleep quality, glycaemic status, lipid profile, and liver function.
Effects of saffron on sleep quality in healthy adults with self-reported poor sleep: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.
This 28-day, double-blind, randomized controlled trial examined the effects of saffron extract (affron) on sleep quality in 63 healthy adults with self-reported sleep problems. Saffron was associated with greater improvements in sleep quality measures compared to placebo, with no reported adverse effects.
The effect of saffron supplement on clinical outcomes and metabolic profiles in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial studied the effect of saffron supplementation on clinical outcomes and metabolic profiles in 66 women with active rheumatoid arthritis. Saffron supplementation significantly decreased the number of tender and swollen joints, pain intensity, and disease activity score, and improved Physician Global Assessment and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein was also reduced in the saffron group.
The effects of crocus sativus extract on serum lipid profile and liver enzymes in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A randomized placebo-controlled study
Double-blind RCT of 60 NAFLD patients comparing 15 mg crocin to placebo for 8 weeks. Crocin significantly decreased serum triglyceride levels and liver enzymes AST and ALT, indicating improved liver function and lipid profile.
The effect of saffron supplementation on some inflammatory and oxidative markers, leptin, adiponectin, and body composition in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A double‐blind randomized clinical trial
Double-blind randomized clinical trial investigating the effect of saffron supplementation on inflammatory and oxidative markers, leptin, adiponectin, and body composition in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Saffron is noted for its anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic properties.
Effect of saffron supplementation on symptoms of depression and anxiety: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 23 studies investigating saffron supplementation on depression and anxiety symptoms. Saffron showed a large positive effect size compared to placebo and as an adjunct to antidepressants for depressive symptoms.
The effect of saffron on weight and lipid profile: A systematic review, meta‐analysis, and dose–response of randomized clinical trials
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 RCTs investigating the effects of saffron on lipid profiles. Saffron intervention significantly reduced cholesterol and triglycerides, with no significant effect on weight and LDL concentration. Long-term saffron use increased HDL levels.
The Efficacy of Saffron in the Treatment of Mild to Moderate Depression: A Meta-analysis
Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy of saffron in treating mild to moderate depression. Saffron was found to be significantly more effective than placebo and non-inferior to tested antidepressant drugs.
Effectiveness of a Saffron and Withania Supplement on Mood in Women With Mild-to-Moderate Anxiety During the COVID-19 Lockdown.
Open-label prospective trial evaluating a supplement containing saffron, ashwagandha, tryptophan, and vitamin B6 in 46 women with mild to moderate anxiety during COVID-19 lockdown. Significant improvements in anxiety and health-related quality of life were observed over 12 weeks, though confinement may have impacted outcomes.
Beneficial Effects of Micronutrient Supplementation in Restoring the Altered Microbiota and Gut-Retina Axis in Patients with Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration-A Randomized Clinical Trial.
RCT investigating the effects of micronutrient supplementation, including lutein, zeaxanthin, and saffron, on gut microbiota and ocular health in 30 nAMD patients. Supplementation improved visual acuity and reduced adverse ocular metabolites compared to anti-VEGF treatment alone, suggesting potential benefits in restoring the gut-retina axis.
Effect of Crocin From Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) Supplementation on Oxidant/Antioxidant Markers, Exercise Capacity, and Pulmonary Function Tests in COPD Patients: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
RCT of crocin supplementation (30 mg/day for 12 weeks) in COPD patients. Crocin decreased serum levels of TOS and NF-κB, increased TAOC, and improved exercise capacity as measured by the 6MWD test.
Evaluation of modulatory effects of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) aqueous extract on oxidative stress in ischemic stroke patients: a randomized clinical trial
RCT of 40 ischemic stroke patients comparing routine care plus saffron extract to routine care alone over 4 days. Saffron group showed higher antioxidant enzyme activities, increased glutathione and total antioxidant capacity, and reduced malondialdehyde levels. Stroke severity was significantly reduced in the saffron group.
Efficacy of a standardised saffron extract (affron®) as an add-on to antidepressant medication for the treatment of persistent depressive symptoms in adults: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study investigated the effects of saffron extract (affron) as an adjunct to antidepressants in adults with persistent depression. The study found that saffron led to a greater reduction in depressive symptoms based on the clinician-rated MADRS, but not on the self-report MADRS-S. Saffron also showed a greater reduction in antidepressant side effects, though this was non-significant after adjusting for baseline values.
An evaluation of the effects of saffron supplementation on the asthma clinical symptoms and asthma severity in patients with mild and moderate persistent allergic asthma: a double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial
Double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial evaluating the effects of saffron supplementation on clinical symptoms and severity of asthma in 80 patients with mild and moderate allergic asthma. Saffron improved clinical symptoms, reduced blood pressure, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and eosinophil and basophil concentrations compared to placebo.
Effects Of Saffron Supplementation On Inflammation And Metabolic Responses In Type 2 Diabetic Patients: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
RCT of 80 type 2 diabetic patients comparing 100 mg/day saffron supplementation to placebo for 12 weeks. Saffron supplementation significantly decreased waist circumference and malondialdehyde levels, but did not affect other cardiometabolic risk markers.
The effect of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) supplementation on blood pressure, and renal and liver function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A double-blinded, randomized clinical trial
This double-blinded, randomized clinical trial examined the effects of Crocus sativus supplementation on blood pressure, renal, and liver function in 80 patients with type 2 diabetes. Saffron supplementation significantly reduced systolic blood pressure but did not significantly affect diastolic blood pressure, nephropathy indices, or liver enzyme levels compared to placebo after 12 weeks.
Effect of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) on lipid profile, glycemic indices and antioxidant status among overweight/obese prediabetic individuals: A double-blinded, randomized controlled trial.
Double-blind, randomized controlled trial investigating the effects of saffron supplementation on lipid profile, glycemic indices, and antioxidant status in overweight/obese prediabetic individuals. Saffron improved fasting blood sugar, glycosylated hemoglobin, and DPPH radical scavenging activity, but had no significant effect on lipid profile or anthropometric measures.
Effects of saffron on homocysteine, and antioxidant and inflammatory biomarkers levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized double-blind clinical trial
This double-blind randomized clinical trial evaluated the effects of saffron extract on serum anti-inflammatory and antioxidant variables in 64 T2DM patients. After 3 months, there were no significant improvements in homocysteine levels, antioxidant status, or inflammatory biomarkers in the saffron group compared to placebo.
The effect of hydroalcoholic Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) extract on fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, lipid profile, liver, and renal function tests in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized double-blind clinical trial.
This double-blind randomized clinical trial investigated the effect of saffron extract on fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, lipid profile, liver enzymes, and renal function tests in 64 type 2 diabetic patients. After 3 months, the saffron group showed significant reductions in fasting plasma glucose, cholesterol, LDL-c, and LDL/HDL ratio compared to the placebo group.
Crocus Sativus L. (saffron) versus sertraline on symptoms of depression among older people with major depressive disorders-a double-blind, randomized intervention study.
Double-blind, randomized intervention study comparing the effects of saffron (60 mg/day) and sertraline (100 mg/day) on symptoms of depression in 50 older out-patients with major depressive disorder over six weeks. Both treatments significantly decreased symptoms of depression with no significant differences between them.
A placebo controlled randomized clinical trial of Crocus sativus L. (saffron) on depression and food craving among overweight women with mild to moderate depression
This placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial evaluated the effects of saffron capsules on food craving, body weight, and depression among overweight women with mild to moderate depression. The study aimed to assess saffron's impact on mood and nutritional behavior.
The effects of alcoholic extract of saffron (Crocus satious L.) on mild to moderate comorbid depression-anxiety, sleep quality, and life satisfaction in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A double-blind, randomized and placebo-controlled clinical trial.
Double-blind, placebo-controlled RCT of 54 type 2 diabetic patients with mild to moderate comorbid depression-anxiety. Participants received 30 mg/day saffron or placebo for 8 weeks. Saffron significantly relieved anxiety and sleep disturbance, but not depression alone. Life satisfaction changes were not significant.
The effect of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) hydroalcoholic extract on metabolic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A triple-blinded randomized clinical trial
Triple-blinded RCT of 54 T2D patients comparing saffron hydroalcoholic extract to placebo for 8 weeks. Saffron significantly reduced fasting blood sugar levels but had no significant effect on other metabolic parameters such as serum lipids, blood pressure, and HbA1c.
Saffron and crocin improved appetite, dietary intakes and body composition in patients with coronary artery disease
This 8-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial assessed the effects of saffron and crocin on appetite, dietary intake, and body composition in 84 patients with coronary artery disease. Saffron aqueous extract (SAE) and crocin improved anthropometric and body composition variables, with SAE showing greater reductions in BMI, waist circumference, and fat mass. Both SAE and crocin significantly decreased energy and dietary intake, as well as appetite.
Effects of Saffron Aqueous Extract and Its Main Constituent, Crocin, on Health-Related Quality of Life, Depression, and Sexual Desire in Coronary Artery Disease Patients: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Clinical Trial
This double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial studied the effects of saffron aqueous extract and crocin on depression, sexual desire, and quality of life in 58 coronary artery disease patients. Both substances significantly improved depression and health-related quality of life, but had no significant effects on sexual desire.
Short-term Outcomes of Saffron Supplementation in Patients with Age-related Macular Degeneration: A Double-blind, Placebo-controlled, Randomized Trial
Double-blind, placebo-controlled RCT of 60 patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) comparing 30 mg/day saffron supplementation to placebo over 6 months. Significant improvements in retinal function were observed in ERG results at 3 months for both wet and dry AMD, with some changes persisting at 6 months.
A double-blind, randomized and placebo-controlled trial of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) in the treatment of anxiety and depression.
A 12-week double-blind, placebo-controlled trial assessed the effects of saffron extract on anxiety and depression in 60 adults. Saffron significantly improved Beck Depression Inventory and Beck Anxiety Inventory scores compared to placebo, with rare side effects.
Safety evaluation of saffron stigma (Crocus sativus L.) aqueous extract and crocin in patients with schizophrenia
Double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluating the short-term safety and tolerability of saffron aqueous extract (SAE) and crocin in 66 male patients with schizophrenia. SAE and crocin were safely tolerated with no serious side effects, though WBC count increased significantly in the SAE group but remained within normal range.
Comparing the efficacy and safety of Crocus sativus L. with memantine in patients with moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease: a double-blind randomized clinical trial.
Double-blind RCT comparing saffron extract to memantine in 68 patients with moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease over 12 months. Both treatments showed similar outcomes with no significant differences in cognitive decline reduction or adverse events.
Saffron in the treatment of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease: a 16‐week, randomized and placebo‐controlled trial
RCT investigating the use of saffron (Crocus sativus) in the treatment of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease over 16 weeks. Saffron may inhibit amyloid β aggregation and deposition in the brain, potentially benefiting Alzheimer's disease.
A 22-week, multicenter, randomized, double-blind controlled trial of Crocus sativus in the treatment of mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease.
A 22-week, multicenter, randomized, double-blind controlled trial assessed the efficacy of Crocus sativus (saffron) in treating mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease in 54 Persian-speaking adults. Saffron was found to be as effective as donepezil, with similar adverse event frequencies except for more frequent vomiting in the donepezil group.
Health risk assessment of heavy metals in saffron (Crocus sativus L.) cultivated in domestic wastewater and lake water irrigated soils
The study assessed the impact of domestic wastewater, Sarbal Lake water, and borewell water irrigation on soil characteristics and saffron cultivation in India. Domestic wastewater irrigation significantly influenced soil properties and increased saffron growth and yield, but also raised heavy metal content in saffron parts. Despite this, heavy metal levels remained within safe limits, indicating no potential health hazard from consuming saffron irrigated with these water sources.
The Efficacy of Crocin of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) on the Components of Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
This double-blind, randomized clinical trial evaluated the efficacy of crocin of saffron on metabolic syndrome in 48 patients. The intervention group received 100 mg/day crocin tablets for 6 weeks. Significant reductions in total cholesterol and triglyceride levels were observed from baseline, but not when compared to the placebo group. No significant changes were found in other metabolic syndrome components.
The ocular hypotensive effect of saffron extract in primary open angle glaucoma: a pilot study.
This pilot study evaluated the effect of oral aqueous saffron extract on intraocular pressure (IOP) in 34 eyes of patients with primary open-angle glaucoma. The saffron group showed a significant decrease in IOP after three weeks of treatment compared to the control group, with the effect persisting at four weeks. No side effects were reported.
Safety Evaluation of Crocin (a constituent of saffron) Tablets in Healthy Volunteers
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluating the short-term safety and tolerability of crocin tablets in 44 healthy adult volunteers. No major adverse events were reported, and crocin did not significantly change health parameters except for a decrease in amylase, mixed white blood cells, and PTT.
THE SAFFRON EFFECTS ON THE DYNAMICS OF EXPERIMENTAL EPILEPSY
The study investigates the influence of saffron extract on the dynamics of experimental epilepsy in rabbits. The research involved creating amygdala-like epileptogenesis using penicillin sodium salt and recording electrical activity in the visual system. Saffron extract was found to have an effect on the dynamics of epileptogenesis.
Saffron improves the efficacy of immunotherapy for colorectal cancer through the IL-17 signaling pathway.
The study investigates the effect of saffron's active compounds on the efficacy of immunotherapy for colorectal cancer. In vitro and in vivo experiments showed that saffron components like crocin and safranal can suppress cancer cell proliferation, reduce inflammatory factors, and improve the immunological microenvironment, enhancing the efficacy of immunotherapy.
Safranal Prevents Liver Cancer Through Inhibiting Oxidative Stress and Alleviating Inflammation
The study evaluated the chemopreventive effects of safranal against diethylnitrosamine-induced liver cancer in rats and its mechanisms in HepG2 cells. Safranal inhibited proliferation, induced apoptosis, and exhibited anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting its potential as a chemopreventive agent against hepatocellular carcinoma.
Saffron extract and crocin exert anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects in a repetitive mild traumatic brain injury mouse model
The study investigates the neuroprotective effects of saffron and crocin in a repetitive mild traumatic brain injury mouse model. Both substances improved neurological, cognitive, motor, and sensorimotor functions, and significantly reduced oxidative stress and inflammatory processes.
Protective Effect of Crocin on Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors-Related Myocarditis Through Inhibiting NLRP3 Mediated Pyroptosis in Cardiomyocytes via NF-κB Pathway
The study investigated the protective effect of crocin on immune checkpoint inhibitors-related myocarditis in a mouse model. Crocin treatment improved heart function, reduced inflammation and fibrosis, and alleviated myocardial injury by inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome and NF-κB pathway.
Saffron and Its Major Ingredients’ Effect on Colon Cancer Cells with Mismatch Repair Deficiency and Microsatellite Instability
In vitro study investigating the effects of saffron and its constituents, safranal and crocin, on colorectal cancer cell lines with deficient mismatch repair (dMMR). Saffron extracts restricted proliferation in dMMR cells and affected protein expression related to cell proliferation and apoptosis. The study suggests potential therapeutic implications for saffron in treating MSI CRC patients.
Bioaccessibility and Pharmacokinetics of a Commercial Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) Extract
The study investigated the pharmacokinetics and bioaccessibility of a standardized saffron extract in humans. It found that crocin isomers from saffron are rapidly transformed into crocetin, with a dose-dependent response, and that the galenic preparation is an efficient way to administer saffron extract.
Crocetin Extracted from Saffron Shows Antitumor Effects in Models of Human Glioblastoma
The study investigates the antitumor properties of crocetin, extracted from saffron, in glioblastoma models. In vitro, crocetin showed antiproliferative and pro-differentiative effects on glioma cell lines, reducing viable cells and modulating mesenchymal and neuronal markers. In vivo, crocetin inhibited tumor growth in animal models, showing greater efficacy than radiotherapy and comparable efficacy to temozolomide.
Systems-Pharmacology Dissection of Traditional Chinese Medicine Compound Saffron Formula Reveals Multi-scale Treatment Strategy for Cardiovascular Diseases
The paper uses a system pharmacology approach to explore the molecular mechanisms of the compound saffron formula (CSF) in treating cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). It identifies 103 potential active components and 219 direct targets, building network relationships to uncover pharmacological actions and therapeutic effects of CSF in CVD-related biological processes.
Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and Its By-Products: Healthy Effects in Internal Medicine
Narrative review summarizing the health effects of saffron and its by-products, highlighting its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Saffron is noted for its potential benefits in counteracting degenerative maculopathy, depression, anxiety, neurodegenerative diseases, metabolic syndrome, cancer, and chronic kidney disease.
Therapeutic effects of saffron and its components on neurodegenerative diseases
Narrative review of studies on saffron and its components for neurodegenerative diseases. Saffron may inhibit neuroinflammation, modulate autophagy and apoptosis, and activate antioxidant enzymes, providing neuroprotection.
Therapeutic potential of saffron in brain disorders: From bench to bedside
This narrative review summarizes the therapeutic potential of saffron and its constituents in neurological disorders, highlighting their neuroprotective effects and benefits for cognitive function and mood. It discusses the mechanisms of action and evidence from clinical and preclinical studies.
Phytochemistry, quality control and medicinal uses of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.): an updated review
This narrative review discusses the phytochemical composition, diverse applications, and biological activities of saffron (Crocus sativus L.). It highlights saffron's use in various fields such as food, cosmetics, and medicine, and addresses issues of adulteration and methods for authentication.
A review of therapeutic impacts of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and its constituents
This narrative review discusses the therapeutic effects of saffron and its constituents, crocin, crocetin, and safranal, on various body systems. It highlights their roles in inhibiting inflammatory reactions, scavenging free radicals, and modulating signaling pathways such as SIRT1, Nrf2, and NF-κB.
Active constituents of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and their prospects in treating neurodegenerative diseases (Review)
Review of the pharmacological effects of saffron and its constituents, highlighting their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and mitochondrial function-improving properties. Saffron shows potential in treating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's due to these neuroprotective effects.
Anti-Depressant Properties of Crocin Molecules in Saffron
Narrative review discussing the anti-depressant properties of crocin molecules in saffron. Crocins act as monoamine oxidase inhibitors and have been shown to be effective in treating depression disorders, comparable to fluoxetine and imipramine.
Saffron (Crocus sativus L.): A Source of Nutrients for Health and for the Treatment of Neuropsychiatric and Age-Related Diseases
Narrative review discussing the phytochemical profile and therapeutic characteristics of saffron, highlighting its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties. The review focuses on saffron's beneficial effects on neuropsychiatric diseases and age-related diseases, including cardiovascular, ocular, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Saffron against Neuro-Cognitive Disorders: An Overview of Its Main Bioactive Compounds, Their Metabolic Fate and Potential Mechanisms of Neurological Protection
Narrative review of saffron's neuroprotective effects, focusing on its bioactive compounds like crocin and crocetin. The paper discusses saffron's potential benefits against neurological disorders such as depression, anxiety, and sleep alterations, and highlights research gaps in understanding its mechanisms.
Crocus sativus L. (Saffron) in Alzheimer's disease treatment: bioactive effects on cognitive impairment.
Narrative review of preclinical and clinical studies on saffron's neuroprotective effects in Alzheimer's disease. Saffron showed efficacy in animal models by regulating glutamate levels, reducing oxidative stress, and modulating Aβ and tau protein aggregation. Clinical studies indicated similar cognitive benefits to donepezil and memantine with a better safety profile.
Nutritional and health beneficial properties of saffron (Crocus sativus L): a comprehensive review
This comprehensive review discusses the phytochemistry, bioaccessibility, bioavailability, and bioactivity of saffron and its bioactive constituents. It highlights the neuroprotective, anxiolytic, antidepressant, and memory-enhancing effects of saffron, suggesting its potential as a medicinal food ingredient for nervous system disorders.
Saffron bioactives crocin, crocetin and safranal: effect on oxidative stress and mechanisms of action
This review article highlights the antioxidant effects of saffron bioactive compounds crocin, crocetin, and safranal, focusing on their ability to reduce oxidative stress and the mechanisms involved. The compounds show potential in reducing lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide levels while increasing antioxidant enzyme levels, suggesting their use in functional foods.
Toxicity of Saffron Extracts on Cancer and Normal Cells: A Review Article
This review article provides an overview of the in-vitro and in-vivo evaluation of saffron extract's anti-tumor activity, cancer prevention, and protective effects. Saffron shows selective toxic and preventive effects on cancerous cells without adverse effects on normal cells and may reduce the toxic effects of anticancer drugs. High doses of saffron can be toxic, but its use is considered safe at lower doses.
Saffron (Crocus sativus L.), the king of spices: An overview
This narrative review provides an overview of saffron, its historical, economic, genetic, botanical, agronomic, and qualitative traits, as well as its properties and uses in cuisine, medicine, and cosmetics. It discusses the bioactive compounds in saffron and recent research on its medicinal properties, including neuroprotection and antioxidant activity.
Neuroprotective Potency of Saffron Against Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Neurodegenerative Diseases, and Other Brain Disorders: From Bench to Bedside
This narrative review focuses on the neuroprotective properties of saffron and its constituents in treating neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases. It summarizes recent clinical and preclinical trials, highlighting saffron's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidepressant properties.
Recent Advances on the Anticancer Properties of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and Its Major Constituents
This narrative review discusses the anticancer properties of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and its main constituents, crocin, crocetin, and safranal. It covers preclinical data, clinical trials, and patents related to the cancer prevention and antitumor activities of saffron and its components.
Systems pharmacology analysis of synergy of TCM: an example using saffron formula
The paper uses a systems-based method to analyze the synergistic effects of a compound saffron formula (CSF) containing Crocus sativus and two animal spices on cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). It identifies 42 ingredients and 66 targets, showing how these compounds interact with CVDs pathways to exert therapeutic effects.
Preparation, chemical characterization and determination of crocetin's pharmacokinetics after oral and intravenous administration of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) aqueous extract to C57/BL6J mice
The study prepared a lyophilized saffron aqueous extract and determined its chemical profile and pharmacokinetics of crocetin after intravenous and oral administration to C57/Bl6J mice.
Reversal effects of crocin on amyloid β-induced memory deficit: Modification of autophagy or apoptosis markers.
The study investigates the effects of crocin on memory, cell apoptosis, and autophagy in in vivo models of Alzheimer's disease. Crocin administration significantly improved spatial memory indicators and decreased apoptosis markers, suggesting its neuroprotective properties against beta amyloid-induced damage.
A Longitudinal Follow-Up Study of Saffron Supplementation in Early Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Sustained Benefits to Central Retinal Function
Longitudinal study of saffron supplementation (20 mg/day) in 29 early AMD patients over 14 months. Saffron improved retinal flicker sensitivity and visual acuity, with benefits sustained over the follow-up period.
The anticancer effect of saffron in two p53 isogenic colorectal cancer cell lines
The study investigated the anticancer effects of saffron extract on two p53 isogenic colorectal cancer cell lines. Saffron induced DNA damage and apoptosis in both cell lines, with a p53-dependent pattern of cell cycle distribution. Autophagy delayed apoptosis induction in p53-deficient cells.
Crocetin and Crocin from Saffron in Cancer Chemotherapy and Chemoprevention.
Narrative review of pre-clinical experimental investigations on saffron carotenoids, crocin and crocetin, in cancer chemoprevention and chemotherapy. The review highlights their antioxidant properties, tumor growth inhibition, and various biological activities including apoptosis induction and immune modulation.
Antidiabetic potential of saffron and its active constituents
Narrative review discussing the antidiabetic potential of saffron and its active constituents. Saffron is highlighted for its insulin-sensitizing and hypoglycemic effects, improving insulin signaling and preventing β-cell failure to achieve better glycemic control.
Saffron (Crocus sativus) and its Active Ingredients: Role in the Prevention and Treatment of Disease
This study summarizes the role of saffron and its active ingredients in disease prevention and treatment, based on in vivo and in vitro studies. Saffron is noted for its potential health benefits, including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumour, anti-microbial, and anti-diabetic activities.
A Survey on Saffron in Major Islamic Traditional Medicine Books
This paper is a bibliographical survey of 13 major Islamic Traditional Medicine books regarding the medical aspects of saffron (Crocus sativus). It discusses saffron's activities such as oxytocic, anti-carcinogenic, exhilarant, anti-depressant, and anti-asthma effects, as well as its ability to increase the bioavailability and enhance absorption of other drugs.
An overview on saffron, phytochemicals, and medicinal properties
This narrative review discusses the phytochemistry, pharmacology, and quality evaluation methods of saffron, highlighting its importance as a medicinal food spice and its role in various industries. The paper reviews recent reports on saffron's pharmacological activity and the standards for its quality conservation in international trade.
Sexual dysfunction in selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and potential solutions: A narrative literature review
Narrative literature review evaluating SSRI-related sexual side effects and potential solutions. Saffron is mentioned as having limited evidence for reducing some aspects of sexual dysfunction, excluding ability to reach orgasm.