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Saffron: a natural product with potential pharmaceutical applications
Eirini Christodoulou1, Nikolaos P E Kadoglou2,3, Nikolaos Kostomitsopoulos2
1Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics-Pharmacokinetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology
|August 15, 2015
Summary
Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and its active compounds, crocin and safranal, show promising antioxidant, anti-tumor, and anti-diabetic effects. Preliminary clinical trials suggest potential benefits for depression and Alzheimer's disease.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology and ethnobotany
- Natural product chemistry
Background:
- Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) has a long history in traditional medicine.
- Interest is growing in isolating bioactive components from natural sources for health benefits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the therapeutic properties of saffron.
- To investigate saffron's potential in modern medicine.
- To summarize evidence on saffron's biological activities and uses.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of preclinical and clinical studies.
- Analysis of phytochemical and pharmacological data.
- Examination of historical and structural information on saffron constituents.
Main Results:
- Major saffron compounds, crocin and safranal, exhibit antioxidant, anti-tumor, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-atherosclerotic activities.
- Most evidence is from in vitro studies, with limited in vivo and clinical data.
- Preliminary clinical trials indicate saffron may help with depression and Alzheimer's disease cognitive function.
Conclusions:
- Saffron constituents, crocin and safranal, possess diverse pharmacological properties.
- Further clinical research is needed to validate therapeutic potential.
- Saffron holds promise for various pathological conditions.
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