Mashmoul M¹, Azlan A^2,3, Khaza’ai H⁴, Yusof BN⁵, Noor SM⁶.

1-Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Serdang, Selangor 43400, Malaysia. mmashmoul@yahoo.com.

2-Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Serdang, Selangor 43400, Malaysia. azrinaaz@upm.edu.my.

3-Laboratory of Halal Science Research, Halal Products Research Institute, Universiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Serdang, Selangor 43400, Malaysia. azrinaaz@upm.edu.my.

4-Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Serdang, Selangor 43400, Malaysia. huzwah@medic.upm.edu.my.

5-Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Serdang, Selangor 43400, Malaysia. bnisak@medic.upm.edu.my.

6-Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Serdang, Selangor 43400, Malaysia. sabariah@medic.upm.edu.my.

Abstract

Obesity is associated with various diseases, particularly diabetes, hypertension, osteoarthritis and heart disease. Research on possibilities of herbal extracts and isolated compounds from natural products for treating obesity has an upward trend. Saffron (Crocus Sativus L. Iridaceae) is a source of plant polyphenols/carotenoids, used as important spice and food colorant in different parts of the world. It has also been used in traditional medicine for treatment of different types of illnesses since ancient times. Many of these medicinal properties of saffron can be attributed to a number of its compounds such as crocetin, crocins and other substances having strong antioxidant and radical scavenger properties against a variety of radical oxygen species and pro-inflammatory cytokines. The aim of this article is to assess the potential role of saffron and its constituents in the regulation of metabolic functions, which can beneficially alter obesity pathophysiology.

Keywords

antioxidant; crocin; obesity; overweight; saffron; weight loss

DoI  : 10.3390/antiox2040293

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26784466

www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/2/4/293/pdf

https://europepmc.org/abstract/med/26784466

Somayeh Rahaiee1 , Maryam Hashemi 2,

1-Department of Food science, Engineering and Technology, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering and TechnologyUniversity of TehranKarajIran

2-Department of Microbial Biotechnology and BiosafetyAgricultural Biotechnology Research Institute of Iran (ABRII)KarajIran

Abstract

Saffron (Crocus sativus L. stigma), the most valuable medicinal food product, belongs to the Iridaceae family which has been widely used as a coloring and flavoring agent. These properties are basically related to its crocins, picrocrocin and safranal contents which have all demonstrated health promoting properties. The present review article highlights the phytochemical constituents (phenolic and flavonoid compounds, degraded carotenoid compounds crocins and crocetin) that are important in antioxidant activity of saffron extracts. However, the synergistic effect of all the bioactive components presence in saffron gave a significant antioxidant activity similar to vegetables rich in carotenoids. Our study provides an updated overview focused on the antioxidant activity of saffron related to its bioactive compounds to design the different functional products in food, medicine and cosmetic industries.

Keyword

Saffron , Antioxidant activity ,Bioactive compounds ,Saffron extracts 

DOI: 10.1007/s13197-013-1238-x

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs13197-013-1238-x

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25829569

https://app.dimensions.ai/details/publication/pub.1015366169

Mohammad Hossein Boskabady ,  Tahereh Farkhondeh

Neurogenic Inflammation Research Centre and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, 9177948564, Iran.

Abstract

Crocus sativus L. (C. sativus), commonly known as saffron, is used as a food additive, preservative, and medicinal herb. Traditionally, it has been used as an alternative treatment for different diseases. C. sativus‘ medicinal effects are related to its major constituents like crocins, crocetin, and safranal. According to the literature, C. sativus and its constituents could be considered as an effective treatment for neurodegenerative disorders, coronary artery diseases, asthma, bronchitis, colds, fever, diabetes, and so on.Recently, numerous studies have reported such medicinal properties and found that the underlying mechanisms of action may be mediated by antioxidant, inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. C. sativus enhances the antioxidant capacity and acts as a free radical scavenger. As an antiinflammatory and immunomodulatory agent, it modulates inflammatory mediators, humoral immunity, and cell‐mediated immunity responses. This review highlights in vitro and animal findings regarding antiinflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects of C. sativus and its constituents. Present review found that the C. sativus and its main constituents such as safranal, crocins, and crocetin could be effective against various diseases because of their antioxidant, anti‐inflammation, and immunomodulatory effects.

Keyword :

Crocus sativus; antiinflammatory; antioxidant; crocetin; crocins; immunomodulation; safran

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.5622

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/ptr.5622

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27098287

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Antiinflammatory%2C-Antioxidant%2C-and-Immunomodulatory-Boskabady-Farkhondeh/1ea1465d09e3830c1b6576501ad147f3d38ee478

Panagiotis Konstantopoulos,¹ Ilias P. Doulamis,¹ Aspasia Tzani,¹Emmanouil Agapitos,²Christos Verikokos,³ George Mastorakos,⁴

1-National and Kapodistrian University of Athens

Abstract

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the result of the accumulation of adipose tissue deposits in the liver and it is associated with type 2 diabetes. Crocus sativus (saffron) is known for its antioxidant and its potential hypoglycemic effects. We investigated the role of saffron on NAFLD in diabetic rats. Thirty adult male rats were allocated into three groups; control (n=10), which received normal diet; streptozotocin (STZ) group (n=10), which received normal chow diet, 10% fructose in their drinking water and STZ (40 mg/kg body weight; STZ-saffron group (n=10), which followed the same dietary and pharmacological pattern as STZ group and were additionally supplemented with saffron (100 mg/kg/day). Metabolic profile was measured and histopathological examination of the liver was evaluated. STZ group exhibited the highest glucose levels at the end of the experiment (P<0.05), while there was no difference between control and STZ-saffron group (584 vs. 213 mg/dl vs. 209 mg/dl, respectively). STZ group revealed higher percentage of steatosis (5–33%) when compared to the other two groups (P<0.005). Saffron exhibits both hypoglycemic and hepatoprotective actions. Yet, further studies enlightening the exact mechanisms of saffron’s mode of actions are required.

Keywords :

saffron, non-alcoholic fatty liver, metabolism, diabetes, rats

DOI:  10.3892/br.2017.884

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5431529/

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Metabolic-effects-of-Crocus-sativus-and-protective-Konstantopoulos-Doulamis/f619e3aabe6a7c998e9a32bf88e0adb44bebe0cf

Imenshahidi M¹, Hosseinzadeh H, Javadpour Y.

School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, I.R. Iran. imenm@mums.ac.ir

Abstract

In this study, the effects of saffron (Crocus sativus) stigma aqueous extract and two active constituents, crocin and safranal, were investigated on blood pressure of normotensive and desoxycorticosterone acetate-induced hypertensive rats. Three doses of crocin (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg), safranal (0.25, 0.5 and 1 mg/kg) and the aqueous extract (2.5, 5 and 10 mg/kg) were administered intravenously in different groups of normotensive and hypertensive animals and their effects on mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) and heart rate (HR) were evaluated. The aqueous extract of saffron stigma, safranal and crocin reduced the MABP in normotensive and hypertensive anaesthetized rats in a dose-dependent manner. For example, administrations of 10 mg/kg of aqueous extract, 1 mg/kg of safranal and 200 mg/kg of crocin caused 60 +/- 8.7, 50 +/- 5.2 and 51 +/- 3.8 mmHg reductions in MABP, respectively. It can be concluded that the aqueous extract of saffron stigma has hypotensive properties which appear to be attributable, in part, to the actions of two major constitutes of this plant, crocin and safranal. It seems that safranal is more important than crocin for lowering down blood pressure of rats

Keywords :

Botany,Medicine,Blood pressure,Pharmacognosy,Hemodynamics,Aqueous solution,Traditional medicine,Iridaceae,Crocin,Crocus ,sativus,Safranal

DOI: 10.1002/ptr.3044

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20013822

https://scinapse.io/papers/2055811458

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ptr.3044

AFSHAR MOHAMMADIAN M., KORDI SH., MASHHADI NEJAD A.

Journal:   JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR RESEARCH (IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY)   2016 , Volume 29 , Number 3 #G00212; Page(s) 265 To 273.

Abstract

According to public concerns about side effects of chemical preservatives tend to use natural products without preservatives has been increased. This study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial extract of saffron stigmas and petals of different species on two types of g⁺ bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis) and two g^– bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli), causing the infection and the most important food poisoning. In this study, the antibacterial activity of three species of saffron with the scientific names of Crocus caspius, Crocus speciosus and Crocus sativus examined. The extraction of the three species of crocus was performed using methanol acid. The antibacterial activity of the extracts obtained by measuring the diameter of bacterial growth as well as the determination of minimum inhibitory concentration was determined. The results showed that the extract of saffron stigmas and petals of different species, had different antibacterial effects, so that B. subtilis and E. coli were the most sensitive and resistant bacteria to extract, respectively. Moreover, the petal extract of C. sativus and the stigma extract of C. speciosus had the most inhibitory effect on the examined microorganisms. Therefore, the stigma and the petals of the saffron in addition to the antioxidant properties can also be used as antibacterial agents.

Keywords:

SAFFRON, PETALS, STIGMA, ANTI-BACTERIAL ACTIVITY, INHIBITORY CONCENTRATION

https://www.sid.ir/en/journal/ViewPaper.aspx?id=593263

pdf : https://www.sid.ir/fa/journal/ViewPaper.aspx?FID=8001413950302

Hossein Motamedi¹؛

Abstract

Control of food borne diseases is a major concern and due undesirable side effects of chemical preservatives, there is more tendencies to natural preservatives such as spices for this purpose. Saffron is the most expensive spice that is is used as coloring and flavoring agent in foods. The aim of the present study was investigate antibacterial effects of hydro alcoholic extracts of saffron against pathogenic bacteria especially food poisoning species. For this purpose, one gram of finely powdered saffron was mixed with 10 ml of 2:8 (v/v) water- alcohol (ethanol or methanol) solution and mixed gently. Following incubation at room temperature, the suspension was centrifuged and the extract of saffron was harvested and dried. Sterile blank discs were saturated with extracts and their effects were evaluated in standard disc diffusion assay against six gram positive and six gram negative bacterial species. Simultaneously, the effect of standard antibiotics was evaluated against tested bacteria. The results revealed that Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus anthracis, Bacillus cereus, Listeria monocytogenes and Brucella melitensis were the most susceptible species to ethanolic and methanolic extracts of saffron while Proteus mirabilis and Salmonella Typhi were resistant. The antibacterial effects of extracts were noticeable with regard to the standard antibiotics. All of the susceptible species in this study are important food borne pathogens and it is possible to use saffron as a natural preservative in food industry in order to control food borne pathogens.

Keywords:

Saffron, Hydroalcoholic extract, Food borne pathogens, Natural preservative

http://jfm.iaushk.ac.ir/article_647909.html

http://jfm.iaushk.ac.ir/article_647909_f640d11601203d018b6fd5ff26c07aa5.pdf

Hamid Mollazadeh¹; Seyyed Ahmad Emami²; Hossein Hosseinzadeh³

¹Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

²Department of Traditional Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

³Pharmaceutical Research Center, Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

Abstract

Traditional knowledge can be used as a source for development of new medicines. In the present study, we compare the data on saffron in Razi’s Al-Hawi book with modern scientific studies. A computerized search of published articles was performed using MEDLINE, Scopus as well as native references. The search terms used were saffron, Crocus sativus, crocetin, crocin, safranal, Razi, and Al-Hawi. A variety of properties of saffron including diuretic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, appetite suppressant, hypnotic, antidepressant, and bronchodilator effects were mentioned in Al-Hawi. Modern studies also confirmed most of these characteristics. This review indicates that the pharmacological data on saffron and its constituents are similar to those found in Razi’s Al-Hawi monograph and it can be concluded that ethnobotanical information and ancient sources have precious data about medicinal plants that lead to finding new compounds for treatment of several diseases.

Keywords:

Al-Hawi; Crocin; Crocus sativus L; Razi; Saffron; Safranal; Traditional Medicine

DOI : 10.22038/IJBMS.2015.6267

http://ijbms.mums.ac.ir/article_6267.html

http://eprints.mums.ac.ir/6804/

Sediqeh Ahmadi, Maryam Aradmehr, Sediqeh Azhari

Hosseinali Ettehadi, Seyedeh Nargesolsadat Mojabi, Mina Ranjbaran, Jamal Shams, Hedayat Sahraei, Mahdi Hedayati, Farzad Asefi

Affiliation(s)

Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, and Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Fat Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Institute of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran.
Neuroscience Research Center, Baqyiatallah (a.s.) University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Background and objective: For many women, childbirth remains to be the most painful experience of their life. Coping with pain and shortening the course of childbirth are among the important aspects of healthcare. In Traditional Medicine, the pain-relief effects of saffron have been reported to facilitate childbirth. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the effect of oral consumption of saffron on the severity of pain, anxiety and the length of the first and second stages of labor. Material and methods: This triple blind clinical trial was conducted on 60 women at first childbirth who were qualified for the study at 17Shahrivar Hospital in Mashhad during 2013-2014. The study units were randomly selected using available sampling method who were assigned into two intervention groups; experimental (250 mg saffron capsule) and control (placebo capsules) groups.  With the onset of the active phase of labor, one saffron capsule was received by the study unit. Pain severity and anxiety were measured at the beginning of the study and then for every hour until the end of the active phase of labor using visual analogue scale of pain severity. The active phase length of the first and second stages of labor were measured through a vaginal examination by the researcher. The dosage was repeated, if needed, every 2 hours and up to three dosages, taking into account the possible side effects. The data were analyzed using SPSS 11.5, and descriptive and analytical statistics. Findings: The mean score for total pain severity at the active phase of the first stage of labor was 85.9±4 for the group who received saffron capsule and 97.4±2.9 for the placebo group, indicating a significant difference) p<0.001). The mean score for the length of the active phase of the first stage of labor was shorter for the group who receive saffron capsules compared to the placebo (63.6±13.8), which indicates a significant difference between the two groups (p=0.002). The mean score for the length of second stage of labor were 34.8±17.6 and 64.3±23.6 for the saffron group and the placebo, respectively, indicating a significant difference between the two groups (p=0.000). The mean score for anxiety was for the saffron group (26.16±1.4) was less than that of the placebo group (43.18±9.8) (p=0.000). In addition, the mean score for fatigue in saffron group (57.20±7.9) was significantly less than that of the placebo group (p=0.004). No maternal and neonatal complications were observed in the study units.

Conclusion: Given to the significantly reduced pain severity and anxiety, and thereby the reduced length of active phase of the first and second stage of labor for the group who received saffron capsule with no subsequent complication, the saffron can be used as a mild pain killer facilitating the process of childbirth.

Keywords

PALABRAS CLAVE

Saffron, Labor Pain, Active Phase of Labor

http://revistas.proeditio.com/iush/quid/article/view/2373https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/c3d7/9fdf540bbc4e813deccba6dc988263197b27.pdf

Gholam Hossein Farjah,^1,*Shadi Salehi,² Mohammad Hasan Ansari,³ and Bagher Pourheidar¹

¹Neurophysiology Research Center, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran

²Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran

³Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran

Abstract

Objective(s):

Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury of spinal cord is leading to the paraplegia observed. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of the saffron extract on spinal cord I/R injury.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty five male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 5 groups: intact, sham surgery, normal saline (NS), low dose saffron aqua extract, high dose saffron aqua extract.

Results:

The mean motor deficit index (MDI) scores were significantly lower in the saffron extract groups than in the NS group at 48 hr after spinal cord ischemia (P<0.001). Saffron extract groups significantly decreased plasma level of malondialdehyde than in the NS Group (P<0.05). The number of motor normal neurons was significantly greater in the high saffron extract group than in the NS and low saffron group (P<0.05).

Conclusion:

These data suggest that a saffron extract may protect spinal cord neurons from I/R injury.

Keywords

Ischemia, Reperfusion, Spinal cord, Saffron extract

DOI: 10.22038/IJBMS.2017.8364

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5378972/pdf/IJBMS-20-334.pdf

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5378972/

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Protective-effect-of-Crocus-sativus-L.-(Saffron)-on-Farjah-Salehi/22dc5f21db408d92badbc44fa11032f27bd6a6f3

Mathias Schmidt¹, Georges Betti². Andreas Hensel³

1-Herbresearch GermanyTussenhausen Germany

2-Medicinal & Aromatic Plants R&D, Les Algorithmes – Aristote ASophia AntipolisFrance

3-Institute for Pharmaceutical Biology und PhytochemistryMünster Germany

Abstract

Saffron (stigmates of Crocus sativus L.) has been used for medicinal purposes for millenaries. Throughout history, uses against cancer and depressive mood can regularly be identified. These applications have also been in the focus of modern research. Promising and selective anti-cancer effects have been observed in vitro and in vivo, but not yet in clinical trials. Antidepressant effects were found in vivo and in clinical pilot studies. Saffron extracts thus have the potential to make a major contribution to rational phytotherapy.

Keywords

Crocus sativus  ,Pharmacology, Clinical application ,Depression, Cancer

DOI: 10.1007/s10354-007-0428-4

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10354-007-0428-4

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17704979

https://www.unboundmedicine.com/medline/citation/17704979/Saffron_in_phytotherapy:_pharmacology_and_clinical_uses_

Christodoulou E1, Kadoglou NP2,3, Kostomitsopoulos N2, Valsami G1.
1-Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics-Pharmacokinetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
2-Center of Clinical Experimental Surgery and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece.
3-Department of inherited cardiovascular diseases, The Heart Hospital, University College London, London, UK.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES:

Recently, a great deal of interest has been developed to isolate and investigate novel bioactive components from natural resources with health beneficial effects. Saffron is the dried stigma of Crocus sativus L. and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine mainly for its healing properties, as well as for the treatment of various pathological conditions. Objectives of the present review are to unravel its therapeutic properties and investigate the potential applications of saffron in contemporary therapy of a wide spectrum of diseases and summarize previous and current evidence regarding the biological/pharmacological activities of saffron and its active ingredients and their possible therapeutic uses.

KEY FINDINGS:

Recent phytochemistry and pharmacological experiments have indicated that crocin and safranal, the major active ingredients of saffron, exert important actions, such as antioxidant, anti-tumor, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerotic. Unfortunately, the vast majority of those data derive from in vitro studies, whereas a limited number of in vivo experiments support the aforementioned effects. In addition to studies with mechanistic implications, very few clinical trials provide preliminary evidence of saffron potentiality to alleviate depression and increase cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.

SUMMARY:

The history and structural features of saffron constituents are given in the first part of the review, followed by a comprehensive and critical presentation of the published preclinical and clinical studies and review papers on the pharmacology and possible therapeutic uses of saffron and its main active components crocin and safranal.

Keywords

biological/pharmacological evaluation; crocin; drugs from natural sources; natural products; saffron; safranal

DOI: 10.1111/jphp.12456

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26272123

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Saffron%3A-a-natural-product-with-potential-Christodoulou-Kadoglou/664827e1d3e09c307dba48c4acbbf545f3d89e47

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/jphp.12456

M. Moshiri
1 Department of Pharmacodynamy and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IR. Iran
M. Vahabzadeh
1 Department of Pharmacodynamy and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IR. Iran
2 Medical Toxicology Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
H. Hosseinzadeh
3 Pharmaceutical Research Center, Department of Pharmacodynamy and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

Abstract

Commonly known as saffron, Crocus sativus L and its active components have shown several useful pharmacological effects such as anticonvulsant, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, radical scavenger effects, learning and memory improving effects, etc. There has been an increasing body of data on saffron use in medical databases within the last 20 years. In the current review, the strengths and weaknesses of some of the clinical trials about different pharmacological effects of saffron will be discussed
C. sativus extract has been studied in 8 anti-depressant clinical trials in comparison to placebo or some antidepressant drugs, in which saffron showed effectiveness as an antidepressant drug. Clinical trials on anti-Alzheimer effect of saffron demonstrated that it was more effective than the placebo, and as effective as donepezil. 2 clinical trials on antipruritic and complexion promoter in skin care effects of saffron both confirmed that saffron was more efficient than the placebo. In another clinical trial, it was proved that in addition to the weight loss treatment, saffron could reduce snacking frequency. Clinical trials conducted on women with premenstrual syndrome showed that saffron could reduce suffering symptoms more than the placebo and similar to standard treatments.
Furthermore, additional clinical trials on effects of saffron on erection dysfunction, allergies, cardiovascular and immune system as well as its safety, toxicity and human pharmacokinetics are reviewed herein.

Keywords

Crocus sativus – clinical – saffron – crocin – safranal

DOI:  10.1055/s-0034-1375681

https://www.thieme-connect.de/products/ejournals/abstract/10.1055/s-0034-1375681

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24848002

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Clinical-Applications-of-Saffron-(Crocus-sativus)-A-Moshiri-Vahabzadeh/d01409df3e6f55a720d34a611d8fcd667c15c41a

Evropi N Botsoglou, Alexandros K Govaris, Ilias Giannenas, Nickolaos Botsoglou

Abstract

From ancient times, saffron, the flower of the plant Crocus sativus L., is widely used as a traditional medicine to promote health and fight disease. Crocus sativus is cultivated in different parts of the world such as Greece, Spain and, mainly, Iran. In view of its wide range of medicinal uses, saffron has submitted to extensive phytochemical and biochemical studies and a variety of biologically active substances that may exhibit diverse activities have been isolated. The goal of this review is to discuss and summarize the scientific data on the biological properties of saffron and its main ingredients, and to investigate its possible use as a feed additive. The poultry industry would greatly appreciate natural antioxidants that could replace the synthetic ones and satisfy consumer demands for production of eggs and meat without residues from substances that have the potential to harm human health. With natural agents, such as saffron, the hope is that their availability, lack of obvious toxicity at effective dose and ability to protect health by various mechanisms, would allow their introduction as potential feed additives. The major challenges are the standardization of the biological multi-component composition derived from saffron and the standardization of their effects on animal performance and food quality and safety.

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Use-of-Saffron-(-Crocus-sativus-L-.-)-as-a-Feed-for-Botsoglou-Govaris/2d8a7242a7ee87328ed8b790e8cabddd8ca316afhttps://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/2d8a/7242a7ee87328ed8b790e8cabddd8ca316af.pdf?_ga=2.32881597.2098047779.1535265331-1107672802.1534276317

Mousavi B1, Bathaie SZ2, Fadai F1, Ashtari Z1, Ali Beigi N1, Farhang S3, Hashempour S1, Shahhamzei N2, Heidarzadeh H2.
1-Department of Psychiatry, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, P.O.Box: 1985713834, Tehran, Iran.
2-Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, P.O.Box: 14115-111, Tehran, Iran.
3-Clinical psychiatry research center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran

Abstract

OBJECTIVES:

Saffron is the stigma of Crocus sativus L., which has the potentials to play a role in the treatment of many diseases. Although many researches are now going on this precious spice, there are few data on saffron safety in human, especially in patients with chronic mental illnesses. This study aimed to evaluate the short-term safety and tolerability of both saffron and crocin (its major constituent) in adult patients with schizophrenia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The capsules of saffron aqueous extract (SAE) and crocin were used to evaluate short-term safety and tolerability in patients with schizophrenia. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study was performed on patients with schizophrenia. The patients were all male and were divided into three 22-patient groups. While receiving their normal treatment, they also received a 12 week treatment with SAE (15 mg twice daily), crocin (15 mg twice daily) or placebo.

RESULTS:

A total of 61 patients completed the trial; none of them reported a serious side effect. WBC count increased significantly in patients receiving saffron aqua extract (SAE), but it was within the normal range and had no clinical significance. Other hematologic components, markers of thyroid, liver and kidney or inflammation markers had no statistically significant difference among the groups.

CONCLUSION:

This study showed that SAE and crocin in doses of 15 mg twice daily were safely tolerated in patients with schizophrenia.

Keywords

Saffron Aqueous Extract; Crocin; Clinical trial; Safety assessment; Schizophrenia.

DOI: 10.22038/ajp.2015.3879

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26468460

pdf : https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4599113/pdf/AJP-5-413.pdf

http://ajp.mums.ac.ir/article_3879.html

  Golzari SE¹, Khan ZH, Ghabili K, Hosseinzadeh H, Soleimanpour H, Azarfarin R, Mahmoodpoor A, Aslanabadi S, Ansarin K.

1-Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.

Abstract

Tracheostomy was first described by Greco-Roman physicians, including Paulus of Aegina. Medieval Islamic clinicians extended the Greco-Roman ideas with substantial contributions to the field of surgery, including tracheostomy. Although Al-Zahrawi (936-1013 CE) stated that he had not heard or read of any Islamic physicians having performed tracheostomy, there is evidence that many prominent Islamic surgeons did practice this lifesaving procedure during medieval times. Throughout the Islamic Golden Age, Muslim physicians advanced the practice of tracheostomy with many modifications of the procedure, instrumentation, and adjuvant medicinal prescriptions.

DOI:  10.1213/ANE.0b013e3182884313

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23492962

https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/4a69/96fd5a295494a7593d29533856e408f99cdb.pdf

https://journals.lww.com/anesthesia-analgesia/Fulltext/2013/05000/Contributions_of_Medieval_Islamic_Physicians_to.25.aspx

  Lymperopoulou Cd, Lamari Fn

University of Patras

Abstract

Crocus sativus L (known as saffron, , fān hóng huā) is a member of the Iridaceae family. This genus of Crocus includes roughly 90 different species originating from central and southern Europe, North Africa, Middle East, and central Asia to China. Crocus sativus is widely cultivated in the Mediterranean area and Middle East because of its widespread use as a spice. From the ancient years, dried styles (the upper parts are the stigmas) of the plant were used as a food additive for its yellowish color and bitter taste.

DOI:  10.4172/2167-0412.1000e164

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Saffron-Safety-in-Humans%3A-Lessons-from-the-Animal-Cd-Fn/f26b82344dbf88dc82be55c11cdca6c3fe3ebbca

https://www.longdom.org/open-access/saffron-safety-in-humans-lessons-from-the-animal-and-clinical-studies-2167-0412-1000E164.pdf

Escribano J¹, Alonso GL, Coca-Prados M, Fernandez JA.

1-Sección de Biotecnología, Instituto de Desarrollo Regional, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain.

Abstract

Extracts of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) have been reported to inhibit cell growth of human tumor cells. In order to study the cytotoxic effect of the characteristic compounds of saffron spice, we have isolated crocin, crocetin, picrocrocin and safranal. Doses inducing 50% cell growth inhibition (LD50) on HeLa cells were 2.3 mg/ml for an ethanolic extract of saffron dry stigmas, 3 mM for crocin, 0.8 mM for safranal and 3 mM for picrocrocin. Crocetin did not show cytotoxic effect. Cells treated with crocin exhibited wide cytoplasmic vacuole-like areas, reduced cytoplasm, cell shrinkage and pyknotic nuclei, suggesting apoptosis induction. Considering its water-solubility and high inhibitory growth effect, crocin is the more promising saffron compound to be assayed as a cancer therapeutic agent.

Keywords

Antitumor activity, Cytotoxicity, Saffron, Crocin

DoI  : 10.1016/0304-3835(95)04067-6

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8620447

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/0304383595040676?via%3Dihub

https://eurekamag.com/research/008/398/008398865.php

Nair SC¹, Pannikar B, Panikkar KR.

1- Amala Cancer Research Centre, Kerala, India.

Abstract

Antitumor activity of saffron (Crocus sativus) extract a commonly used spice in India was studied against intraperitoneally transplanted sarcoma-180 (S-180), Ehrlich ascites Carcinoma (EAC) and Dalton’s lymphoma ascites (DLA) tumours in mice. Oral administration of 200 mg/kg body weight of the extract increased the life span of S-180, EAC, DLA tumour bearing mice to 111.0%, 83.5% and 112.5%, respectively. The same extract was found to be cytotoxic to P38B, S-180, EAC and DLA tumour cells in vitro. Thymidine uptake studies indicated the mechanism of action of the extract at the site of DNA synthesis. Toxicity studies showed that the hematological and biochemical parameters were within normal range. These results indicate the potential use of saffron as an anticancer agent.

Keyword

. antitumour activity .cytotoxicity.saffron extract

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/0304-3835(91)90203-T

https://scinapse.io/papers/1973549682

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2025883

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/030438359190203T

By Double-blind Placebo-controlled Trial, Hossein Mohammadzadeh-moghadam Md, Seyed Mohammad Nazari, Ali Shamsa, Mohammad Kamalinejad, Habibollah Esmaeeli, Amir Abbas Asadpour and Abdoljavad Khajavi

Abstract

Erectile dysfunction is a man’s persistent or recurrent inability to achieve and maintain erection for a satisfactory sexual rela-tionship. As diabetes is a major risk factor for erectile dysfunction, the prevalence of erectile dysfunction among diabetic men has been reported as 35 % to 90%. This randomized, parallel-group, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the effects of a topical saffron (Crocus sativus L) gel on erectile dysfunction in diabetic men. Patients were randomly allocated to 2 equal groups (with 25 patients each). The intervention group was treated with topical saffron, and the control received a similar treatment with placebo. The 2 groups were assessed using the International Index of Erectile Function Questionnaire before the intervention and 1 month after the intervention. Compared to placebo, the prepared saffron gel could significantly improve erectile dysfunction in diabetic patients (P &lt;.001). This preliminary evidence suggests that saffron can be considered as a treatment option for diabetic men with erectile dysfunction

Year: 2015

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https://core.ac.uk/display/109514831

Patel S¹, Sarwat M², Khan TH³.

1-Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Sector 125 Noida, UP 201313, India.

2-Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Sector 125 Noida, UP 201313, India. Electronic address: msarwat@amity.edu.

3-Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia.

Abstract

Cancer is a disorder which has noted a significant rise in incidence worldwide and continues to be the largest cause of mortality. It has a dramatic impact on human life expectancy and quality of life in spite of the increase in technology and the treatments available for cancer patients. These new therapeutic options being chemotherapy, radiotherapy, photolytic therapy and catalytic therapy are known to have many adverse reactions and also no better positive outcomes than before. Hence, research is now focused more on utilizing the vast repertoire of traditional medicinal knowledge i.e. the use of flora for treatment of cancer rather than the use of chemicals. One such herb is the Crocus sativus L., commonly known as Saffron, rich in carotenoids – crocin, crocetin and safranal. Various studies have been carried out over the past few years to confirm the anti-cancer properties of saffron, both in vivo using animal models and in vitro using human malignant cell lines on various types of cancers with positive results. The proposed mechanism of actions has also been worked upon. This review is aimed to provide a brief overview on the anti-tumor potential of saffron focusing on the molecular mechanism involved..

Keywords 

Anti-tumor; Carotenoids; Crocetin; Crocin; Saffron; Safranal

DOI:  10.1016/j.critrevonc.2017.04.010

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28602167

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1040842817302238

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Mechanism-behind-the-anti-tumour-potential-of-L.)%3A-Patel-Sarwat/c538ef9a65e2ec8f18944aaeba18c5bea021c948

https://www.croh-online.com/article/S1040-8428(17)30223-8/pdf

Scientists Are Convinced of Its Potency
by  Ralph Moss and Dr. Fikrat Abdullayev

Could saffron, cherished by civilizations, both ancient and modern, hold, as yet, untapped benefits in the treatment and prevention of cancer? Could it be that those delicate thin, hair-like stamens that produce a brilliant reddish-orange dye belonging to the flowers of a humble crocus family (Crocus sativus) really offer hope to cancer patients? A growing number of respected scientists are convinced of the possibility.

Much of the ground-breaking research related to saffron and its anti-cancer and anti-tumor properties is being carried out by Azerbaijani scientist Dr. Fikrat Abdullayev (alternative spelling: Fikret Abdullaev), who heads a research team at the National Institute of Pediatrics in Mexico City………..

WELCOME TO SAFFRONOLOGY
“I’m just wild about Saffron,” sang Donovan in his 1967 hit Mellow Yellow. Saffron mentioned in that popular song was not a spice, but a girl (who, if my memory serves me well, was equally wild about Donovan). However, the sentiment is turning out to be descriptive of a different kind of “flower power” than we ever envisioned during that period which is often referred to as “Summer of Love”. This is the power of the garden crocus-or more specifically, its three bright-red stigmas-from which saffron is derived…..

A Traditional Medicine
The word “saffron” is found in recognizable form in many ancient languages. The medicinal use of saffron dates back to ancient times and is mentioned in the works of Hippocrates, Galen, and other great clinicians. …..

Is Saffron Toxic?
Perhaps because of a mistaken association with the poisonous meadow saffron, saffron has the ill-deserved reputation of being somewhat toxic. Dr. Abdullayev has established that saffron is safe when taken in …….

Effects on Cancer
Saffron is known for its possible therapeutic effect on cancer. And, indeed, a growing body of laboratory evidence indicates that saffron does have anticancer effects. This property was first described in papers by the Indian scientist S.C. Nair in 1991. Dr. Abdullayev confirmed and extended Nair’s findings the following year. Later, scientists from Greece (Petros A. Tarantilis, 1994) and Spain (Julio A. Escribano, 1996) supported these results. ………….

https://www.azer.com/aiweb/categories/magazine/ai142_folder/142_articles/142_saffron.html

  José Bagur M^1,2, Alonso Salinas GL³, Jiménez-Monreal AM⁴, Chaouqi S^5,6, Llorens S⁷, Martínez-Tomé M⁴, Alonso GL⁸.

1-Cátedra de Química Agrícola, E.T.S.I. Agrónomos y de Montes, Universidad de Castilla-La 1-Mancha, Campus Universitario, 02071 Albacete, Spain. MariaJose.Bagur@uclm.es.

2-Department of Food Science, Universidad de Murcia, Regional Campus of International Excellence, Campus International de Excelencia Regional “Campus Mare Nostrum”, CIBERobn, ISCIII, 30100 Murcia, Spain. MariaJose.Bagur@uclm.es.

3-Heart Failure Unit, Department of Cardiology, Hospital Ramon y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain. gonzalol.alonso@gmail.com.

4-Department of Food Science, Universidad de Murcia, Regional Campus of International Excellence, Campus International de Excelencia Regional “Campus Mare Nostrum”, CIBERobn, ISCIII, 30100 Murcia, Spain.

5-Cátedra de Química Agrícola, E.T.S.I. Agrónomos y de Montes, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Universitario, 02071 Albacete, Spain. chaouqi89@hotmail.fr.

6-Laboratory of Materials, Environment and Electrochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ibn Tofaïl University, P.O. Box 242, 14000 Kénitra, Morocco. chaouqi89@hotmail.fr.

7-Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine and Regional Centre for Biomedical Research (CRIB), University of Castilla-La Mancha, 02008 Albacete, Spain. Silvia.Llorens@uclm.es.

8-Cátedra de Química Agrícola, E.T.S.I. Agrónomos y de Montes, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Universitario, 02071 Albacete, Spain. Gonzalo.Alonso@uclm.es.

Abstract

The spice saffron is made from the dried stigmas of the plant Crocus sativus L. The main use of saffron is in cooking, due to its ability to impart colour, flavour and aroma to foods and beverages. However, from time immemorial it has also been considered a medicinal plant because it possesses therapeutic properties, as illustrated in paintings found on the island of Santorini, dated 1627 BC. It is included in Catalogues of Medicinal Plants and in the European Pharmacopoeias, being part of a great number of compounded formulas from the 16th to the 20th centuries. The medicinal and pharmaceutical uses of this plant largely disappeared with the advent of synthetic chemistry-produced drugs. However, in recent years there has been growing interest in demonstrating saffron’s already known bioactivity, which is attributed to the main components-crocetin and its glycosidic esters, called crocins, and safranal-and to the synergy between the compounds present in the spice. The objective of this work was to provide an updated and critical review of the research on the therapeutic properties of saffron, including activity on the nervous and cardiovascular systems, in the liver, its antidepressant, anxiolytic and antineoplastic properties, as well as its potential use as a functional food or nutraceutical.

Keywords

crocetin esters; crocin; functional food; nutraceutical; picrocrocin; saffron; safranal; therapeutic properties

DOI:  10.3390/molecules23010030

https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/23/1/30

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29295497

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Saffron%3A-An-Old-Medicinal-Plant-and-a-Potential-Bagur-Salinas/30354c803521530bdb4150dc9fdfc1528ce8d2c8

Patel S¹, Sarwat M², Khan TH³.

1-Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Sector 125 Noida, UP 201313, India.

2-Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Sector 125 Noida, UP 201313, India. Electronic address: msarwat@amity.edu.

3-Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia.

Abstract

Cancer is a disorder which has noted a significant rise in incidence worldwide and continues to be the largest cause of mortality. It has a dramatic impact on human life expectancy and quality of life in spite of the increase in technology and the treatments available for cancer patients. These new therapeutic options being chemotherapy, radiotherapy, photolytic therapy and catalytic therapy are known to have many adverse reactions and also no better positive outcomes than before. Hence, research is now focused more on utilizing the vast repertoire of traditional medicinal knowledge i.e. the use of flora for treatment of cancer rather than the use of chemicals. One such herb is the Crocus sativus L., commonly known as Saffron, rich in carotenoids – crocin, crocetin and safranal. Various studies have been carried out over the past few years to confirm the anti-cancer properties of saffron, both in vivo using animal models and in vitro using human malignant cell lines on various types of cancers with positive results. The proposed mechanism of actions has also been worked upon. This review is aimed to provide a brief overview on the anti-tumor potential of saffron focusing on the molecular mechanism involved.

Keywords

Anti-tumor; Carotenoids; Crocetin; Crocin; Saffron; Safranal

DOI :  10.1016/j.critrevonc.2017.04.010

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28602167

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1040842817302238?via%3Dihub

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Mechanism-behind-the-anti-tumour-potential-of-L.)%3A-Patel-Sarwat/c538ef9a65e2ec8f18944aaeba18c5bea021c948

Jabbarpoor Bonyadi MH¹, Yazdani S, Saadat S.

1-Department of Ophthalmology, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran. mhbonyadi@yahoo.com

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

The progressive nature of glaucoma and its growing incidence make its therapy an important target for research. The role of oxidative damage in the pathogenesis of glaucoma makes antioxidants such as saffron extract an attractive target for potential clinical use. Herein, we evaluate the effect of aqueous saffron extract on intraocular pressure (IOP) in eyes with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG).

METHODS:

Thirty-four eyes of 34 clinically stable POAG patients receiving treatment with timolol and dorzolamide eye drops were enrolled in this prospective, comparative, randomized interventional pilot study. Eligible subjects were randomized to receive 30 mg/day aqueous saffron extract orally (17 subjects, 17 eyes) or placebo (17 subjects, 17 eyes) for one month as an adjunct to timolol and dorzolamide. Following treatment, both study groups entered a one-month wash-out period. The main outcome measure was IOP during treatment and after the wash-out period.

RESULTS:

Mean baseline IOP was 12.9 ± 3.7 versus 14.0 ± 2.5 mmHg in the saffron and control groups, respectively (p = 0.31). After three weeks of treatment, IOP was significantly decreased to 10.9 ± 3.3 mmHg in the saffron group as compared to 13.5 ± 2.3 mmHg in the control group (p = 0.013). At four weeks, IOP was still significantly lower in the saffron group (10.6 ± 3.0 versus 13.8 ± 2.2 mmHg, p = 0.001). At the end of the wash-out period, IOP was 12.9 ± 3.0 in the saffron group versus 14.2 ± 2.0 mmHg in the control group (p = 0.175). None of the patients experienced side effects during the study and wash-out period.

CONCLUSIONS:

Oral aqueous saffron extract seems to exert an ocular hypotensive effect in primary open-angle glaucoma. This effect became evident after three weeks of therapy.The current study was registered at the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) as IRCT201201278832N1.

DOI:  10.1186/1472-6882-14-399

https://bmccomplementalternmed.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1472-6882-14-399

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25319729

https://www.springermedizin.de/the-ocular-hypotensive-effect-of-saffron-extract-in-primary-open/9523332

Lymperopoulou Cd, Lamari Fn

Corresponding author:

Lamari FN, Department of Pharmacy, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece, Tel: +30-2610-962335; E-mail: flam@upatras.gr

Abstract

Crocus sativus L (known as saffron, , fān hóng huā) is a member of the Iridaceae family. This genus of Crocus includes roughly 90 different species originating from central and southern Europe, North Africa, Middle East, and central Asia to China. Crocus sativus is widely cultivated in the Mediterranean area and Middle East because of its widespread use as a spice. From the ancient years, dried styles (the upper parts are the stigmas) of the plant were used as a food additive for its yellowish color and bitter taste

DOI: 10.4172/2167-0412.1000e164

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Saffron-Safety-in-Humans%3A-Lessons-from-the-Animal-Cd-Fn/f26b82344dbf88dc82be55c11cdca6c3fe3ebbca

https://www.longdom.org/open-access/saffron-safety-in-humans-lessons-from-the-animal-and-clinical-studies-2167-0412-1000E164.pdf

  Samarghandian S¹, Borji A².

1-Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran ; Health Strategic Research Center, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran.

2-Health Strategic Research Center, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran.

Abstract

Conventional and newly emerging treatment procedures such as chemotherapy, catalytic therapy, photodynamic therapy and radiotherapy have not succeeded in reversing the outcome of cancer diseases to any drastic extent, which has led researchers to investigate alternative treatment options. The extensive repertoire of traditional medicinal knowledge systems from various parts of the world are being re-investigated for their healing properties Crocus sativus L., commonly known as saffron, is the raw material for one of the most expensive spice in the world, and it has been used in folk medicine for centuries. Chemical analysis has shown the presence of more than 150 components in saffron stigmas. The more powerful components of saffron are crocin, crocetin and safranal. Studies in animal models and with cultured human malignant cell lines have demonstrated antitumor and cancer preventive activities of saffron and its main ingredients, possible mechanisms for these activities are discussed. More direct evidence of anticancer effectiveness of saffron as chemo-preventive agent may come from trials that use actual reduction of cancer incidence as the primary endpoint. This review discusses recent literature data and our results on the cancer chemopreventive activities of saffron and its main ingredients.

Keywords

Anticarcinogenic effect; its ingredients; saffron

DOI: 10.4103/0974-8490.128963

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24761112

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3996758/

 https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Anticarcinogenic-effect-of-saffron-(Crocus-sativus-Samarghandian-Borji/3b09e02b0e931fa8dbfa60183bbb2a3dc07f9556

Fikart I. Abdullaev :

Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, National Institute of Pediatrics, Mexico City 04530, Mexico

Abstract

Since cancer is the most common cause of death in the world population, the possibility that readily available natural substances from plants, vegetables, herbs, and spices may be beneficial in the prevention of cancer warrants closer examination. Saffron in filaments is the dried, dark red stigmata of Crocus sativus L. flowers and it is used as a spice, food colorant, and a drug in medicine. A growing body of research has demonstrated that saffron extract itself and its main constituents, the carotenoids, possess chemopreventive properties against cancer. This review discusses recent literature data and our results on the cancer chemopreventive activities of saffron and its main ingredients

Keywords

saffron Crocus sativus L., antitumor, anticarcinogenic, antimutagenic activities, cytotoxicity, chemoprevention

DoI : https://doi.org/10.1177/153537020222700104

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/153537020222700104

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Cancer-chemopreventive-and-tumoricidal-properties-Abdullaev/f18b534086dc6260c1f0228a0a738a2e3b0911ec

📌PDF https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/f18b/534086dc6260c1f0228a0a738a2e3b0911ec.pdf?_ga=2.118407241.1500390401.1538482573-2140256089.1534574808

Mirhadi Khayatnouri, Seyed Esmail Safavi, Saied Safarmashaei, Behrouz Mikailpourardabili and Daryoush Babazadeh

American Journal of Animal and Veterinary Sciences

Abstract

Problem statement: Saffron is widely used as a food flavor and has well known medicinal effects. This drug has an effect on steroid and sexual hormones. The aim of this study was investigation of Saffron orally administration on histomorphometric change of testicular tissue in rat. In this experimental study, 40 male rats are used (4 groups and 10 rats in each group). Approach: Animals were received Saffron (50, 100 and 200 mg kg^-1) daily orally administration, during 28 days. As one group was control (normal saline) and three groups was drug consumer. The testis tissue was sampled after passing of above time and section providing, was stained by H and E. Results: The histomorphometric changes of testicular tissue which include, seminiferous tubules diameter, seminiferous epithelial thickness, interstitial tissue and testicular capsule thickness were studied. Results showed that seminiferous tubules diameter, seminiferous epithelial thickness had significantly decreased (p<0.05) but interstitial tissue thickness had significantly increased (p<0.05) compared with control group. Testicular capsule thickness had not significantly changed. Conclusion: Our results showed that seminiferous tubules diameter, seminiferous epithelial thickness and interstitial tissue thickness in rat testis were significantly changed after Saffron orally administration. This results probably via the reducing of serum testosterone concentration. Effect of Saffron on spermatogenesis index and unfertilization in human needed to be more investigation.

KEYWORDS:

Testicular  tissue,  tubules  diameter,  seminiferous  e pithelial,  interstitial  tissue,  tissue thickness, results showed, capsule thickness, testi s tissue, testicular capsule

DOI: 10.3844/ajavsp.2011.153.159

https://thescipub.com/abstract/10.3844/ajavsp.2011.153.159

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Effect-of-Saffron-on-Histomorphometric-Changes-of-Khayatnouri-Safavi/cc0ba1ddaa222809c0681e1a31dcffee78d6a7ae?navId=paper-header

http://agris.fao.org/agris-search/search.do?recordID=DJ2012079902

https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/cc0b/a1ddaa222809c0681e1a31dcffee78d6a7ae.pdf?_ga=2.227686365.1351066155.1550845268-797178578.1549732210

Jafarisani M¹, Bathaie SZ¹, Mousavi MF².

1-a Faculty of Medical Sciences, Department of Clinical Biochemistry , Tarbiat Modares University , Tehran , Iran.

2-b Department of Chemistry , Tarbiat Modares University , Tehran 14115-175 , Iran.

Abstract

Therapeutic effects of saffron ingredients were studied in some diseases. The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of these ingredients were also studied, but their transport mechanism is not clearly known. Serum albumin has been known as the most important transporter of many drugs in the body that affects their disposition, transportation, and bioavailability. Here, we investigated the interaction of crocin (Cro) with HSA, for the first time, and compared with the crocetin (Crt)-HSA interaction. UV and fluorescence spectroscopy, circular dichroism (CD), and molecular docking was applied to investigate the possibility and mechanism of binding of HSA with these natural carotenoids. The gradually addition of Cro increased HSA absorbency at 278 nm, while Crt decreased it. Both of these changes induced HSA unfolding that was confirmed by the decreased α-helix content, as determined by the CD. Both carotenoids quenched HSA fluorescence emission, but with different mechanisms. The Stern-Volmer plots indicated a dynamic quenching of intrinsic emission of HSA due to Cro addition, while Crt quenching followed both static and dynamic quenching mechanisms. Docking results indicated binding of Cro/Crt in sub-domain IIA, Sudlow site I of HSA, which accompanied with the hydrogen bonding of Cro/Crt with Tyr138. The interaction of these ligands (Cro/Crt) caused HSA unfolding and affects the hydrophobic environment of Trp241, which result in the quenching of Trp fluorescence. The UV spectroscopy and fluorescence quenching data indicated the differences in the mechanisms of interaction of Cro/Crt with HSA, which is due to the differences in the structure and hydrophobicity of these ligands.

Keywords :

HSA; Stern–Volmer; absorption spectroscopy; circular dichroism; fluorescence quenching; unfolding

DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2017.1331865

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Saffron-carotenoids-(crocin-and-crocetin)-binding-Jafarisani-Bathaie/219caa2a7140222f1b5a7d69c6f69e0009a7d724

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28537197

Patel S¹, Sarwat M², Khan TH³.

1-Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Sector 125 Noida, UP 201313, India.

2-Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Sector 125 Noida, UP 201313, India. Electronic address: msarwat@amity.edu.

3-Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Cancer is a disorder which has noted a significant rise in incidence worldwide and continues to be the largest cause of mortality. It has a dramatic impact on human life expectancy and quality of life in spite of the increase in technology and the treatments available for cancer patients. These new therapeutic options being chemotherapy, radiotherapy, photolytic therapy and catalytic therapy are known to have many adverse reactions and also no better positive outcomes than before. Hence, research is now focused more on utilizing the vast repertoire of traditional medicinal knowledge i.e. the use of flora for treatment of cancer rather than the use of chemicals. One such herb is the Crocus sativus L., commonly known as Saffron, rich in carotenoids – crocin, crocetin and safranal. Various studies have been carried out over the past few years to confirm the anti-cancer properties of saffron, both in vivo using animal models and in vitro using human malignant cell lines on various types of cancers with positive results. The proposed mechanism of actions has also been worked upon. This review is aimed to provide a brief overview on the anti-tumor potential of saffron focusing on the molecular mechanism involved.

Keywords

Anti-tumor; Carotenoids; Crocetin; Crocin; Saffron; Safranal

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.critrevonc.2017.04.010

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1040842817302238

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28602167

https://www.croh-online.com/article/S1040-8428(17)30223-8/fulltext

https://www.croh-online.com/article/S1040-8428(17)30223-8/pdf

  Sara kiani – Research assistant, cellular and molecular research center, Shahrekord University of medical sciences
  Ahmad kiani – Research assistant, cellular and molecular research center, Shahrekord University of medical sciences

Abstract

Background: saffron is of medicinal plants possessing lots of beneficial effects. This study aimed to investigate therapeutic effects of crocus sativus on the basis of reviews and systematic reviews.Methods: Computerized search of review articles was performed using PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus and Web of Science, Medline data from 1996 to 2015.Results: Searches identified 8 reviews and systematic reviews of therapeutic effects of saffron. Despite remarkable difference in interventions, and type of studies carrying out on this plant (in vivo and in vitro), it seemed to have many therapeutic effects on the treatment of various types of diseases. In all the reviews, the objectives were similar, e.g. inhibition of growth of cancer cell lines, analgesic activity, improvement of health condition and treatment of some disease but the type of study (in vivo and in vitro) (animal studies: rat, mouse, guini pig, rabbit) and content was quite different. The most common effects of saffron were anti-carcinogenesis, tumoricidal, anti-depressant, antihypertensive, anticonvulsant, antitussive, antigenototoxic and cytotoxic effects, anti-Alzheimer’s, antitussive ,anxiolytic aphrodisiac, antioxidant, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and relaxant activity, effects on the gastrointestinal tract, on the eyes , on ocular blood flow and on retinal function, effect on coronary artery disease, and hypnotic, anxiolytic ,anesthetic effects.Conclusion: saffron seemed to have lots of therapeutic effects on the treatment of various types of diseases. However, to be able to use the results of studies in our daily life, additional clinical trials with larger sample size and longer duration may be required to evaluate its toxicity and safety in each and every case of its therapeutic effects.

Keywords:

saffron, crocus sativus, reviews, therapeutic effects, medicinal plants

http://herbmed.skums.ac.ir/article_14342_ab4eb558f89691ee3d5985b97f1a3d8a.pdf

https://www.civilica.com/Paper-MEAENRS03-MEAENRS03_022.html

http://eprints.skums.ac.ir/id/eprint/4851

 Fatemeh Alizadeh1 , Azam Bolhassani1 *

1 Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran

*Corresponding author Azam Bolhassani, Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran Tel: +98 21 66953311, Ext. 2240; Fax: +98 21 66465132; Email: A_bolhasani@pasteur.ac.ir

SM Journal of Pharmacology and Therapeutics

Abstract

Natural products are good candidates for the development of anti-cancer drugs. Saffron and its components have been proposed as a promising candidate for cancer chemoprevention. The more powerful components of saffron are carotenoids and monoterpene aldehydes. In the current study, cytotoxic and apoptogenic effects of saffron extract and two main components, crocin and picrocrocin, were evaluated in malignant TC-1 and nonmalignant COS-7 cell lines. We showed that the aqueous extract of saffron and its ingredients decreased cell viability in malignant cells as a concentration and time-dependent manner.

Keywords:

Crocus sativus L; Crocin; Picrocrocin; TC-1; Cytotoxicity; Apoptosis

http://www.etcgroup.org/content/case-study-saffronhttp://www.etcgroup.org/files/CBD_Saffron_case_study_TA.pdf

  Finley JW^1,2, Gao S³.

1-Adjunct Professor, Department of Nutrition and Food Science, 111 Food Science Building, Louisiana State University , Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803, United States.

2-14719 Secret Harbor Place, Bradenton, Florida 34202, United States.

3-Quality Phytochemicals LLC , 13 Dexter Road, East Brunswick, New Jersey 08816, United States.

Abstract

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, in which the death of brain cells causes memory loss and cognitive decline. Several factors are thought to play roles in the development and course of AD. Existing medical therapies only modestly alleviate and delay cognitive symptoms. Current research has been focused on developing antibodies to remove the aggregates of amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau protein. This approach has achieved removal of Aβ; however, no cognitive improvement in AD patients has been reported. The biological properties of saffron, the dry stigma of the plant Crocus sativus L., and particularly its main constituent crocin, have been studied extensively for many conditions including dementia and traumatic brain injury. Crocin is a unique antioxidant because it is a water-soluble carotenoid. Crocin has shown potential to improve learning and memory as well as protect brain cells. A search of the studies on saffron and crocin that have been published in recent years for their impact on AD as well as crocin’s effects on Aβ and tau protein has been conducted. This review demonstrates that crocin exhibits multifunctional protective activities in the brain and could be a promising agent applied as a supplement or drug for prevention or treatment of AD.

Keywords:

Alzheimer’s disease; Crocus sativus; crocetin; crocin; saffron

DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.6b04398

https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021%2Facs.jafc.6b04398

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28098452

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/A-Perspective-on-Crocus-sativus-L.-(Saffron)-A-and-Finley-Gao/efafb423d1bc08633c83d1ffadb80c5c68632fe2

Sonali S. Bharate^† , Vikas Kumar^†‡, Gurdarshan Singh^§‡, Amarinder Singh^§‡, Mehak Gupta^§‡, Deepika Singh^∥‡ , Ajay Kumar^§‡, Ram A. Vishwakarma*^⊥‡ , and Sandip B. Bharate*^⊥‡

^†Preformulaion Laboratory, PK-PD Toxicology and Formulation Division, ^‡Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research, ^§PK-PD Toxicology and Formulation Division, ^∥QC-QA Division, and ^⊥Medicinal Chemistry Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Canal Road, Jammu 180001, India

Abstract

Crocus sativus L. (family: Iridaceae) has been documented in traditional medicine with numerous medicinal properties. Recently, we have shown that C. sativus extract (IIIM-141) displays promising efficacy in a genetic mice (5XFAD) model of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) (ACS Chem. Neurosci. 2017, 16, 1756). To translate the available traditional knowledge and the scientifically validated results into modern medicine, herein we aimed to carry out its preclinical development. IIIM-141 is primarily a mixture of crocins containing trans-4-GG-crocin (36 % w/w) as the principal component. The in vitro studies show that IIIM-141 has protective as well as therapeutic properties in assays related to AD. It induces the expression of P-gp, thereby enhancing the amyloid-β clearance from an AD brain. It also inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome and protects SH-SY5Y cells against amyloid-β- and glutamate-induced neurotoxicities. In behavioral models, it decreased the streptozotocin-induced memory impairment in rats and recovered the scopolamine-induced memory deficit in Swiss albino mice at 100 mg/kg dose. The acute oral toxicity study shows that IIIM-141 is safe up to the dose of 2000 mg/kg, with no effect on the body weight and on the biochemical/hematological parameters of the rats. The repeated oral administration of IIIM-141 for 28 days at 100 mg/kg dose did not cause any preterminal deaths and abnormalities in Wistar rats. The pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that after oral administration of IIIM-141, the majority of crocin gets hydrolyzed to its aglycone crocetin. The sustained release (SR) capsule formulation was developed, which showed an improved in vitro dissolution profile and a significantly enhanced plasma exposure in the pharmacokinetic study. The SR formulation resulted in 3.3-fold enhancement in the area under the curve of crocetin and doubling of the crocetin/crocin ratio in plasma compared with the extract. The data presented herein will serve as the benchmark for further research on this botanical candidate.

Keywords:

Dissolution; Drug delivery systems; Glycoproteins; Pharmacology

DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.8b00841

https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acsomega.8b00841

https://figshare.com/articles/Preclinical_Development_of_Crocus_sativus-Based_Botanical_Lead_IIIM-141_for_Alzheimer_s_Disease_Chemical_Standardization_Efficacy_Formulation_Development_Pharmacokinetics_and_Safety_Pharmacology/6985031

Ajami M¹, Eghtesadi S, Pazoki-Toroudi H, Habibey R, Ebrahimi SA.

1-Department of Nutrition, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Crocus sativus, known as saffron, is used in folk medicine for treatment of different types of diseases, and its anti-inflammatory and free radical scavenging activities have been demonstrated. The present study evaluated gentamicin nephrotoxicity in saffron treated rats. Male Wistar rats (200-250 g) were treated with saffron (40 or 80 mg/k/d) for 10 days, or saffron (40 or 80 mg/ kg/d) for 10 days and gentamicin 80 mg/kg/d for five days, starting from day 6. At the end of treatment, blood samples were taken for measurement of serum creatinine (SCr) and BUN. The left kidney was prepared for histological evaluation and the right kidney for Malondialdehyde (MDA) measurement. Gentamicin 80 (mg/k/d) increased SCr, BUN and renal tissue levels of MDA and induced severe histological changes. Saffron at 40 mg/k/d significantly reduced gentamicin-induced increases in BUN and histological scores (p<0.05). Gentamicin-induced increases in BUN, SCr and MDA and histological injury were significantly reduced by treatment with saffron 80 mg/k/d (p<0.05, p<0.001, p<0.05, and p<0.001 respectively). In conclusion, our results suggest that saffron treatment reduces gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity and this effect seems to be dose dependent.

Keywords

Saffron, Malondialdehyde (MDA), aminoglycoside, renal failure.

DoI :  /S0716-97602010000100010

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21157635

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Effect-of-crocus-sativus-on-gentamicin-induced-Ajami-Eghtesadi/cdafdfca5ca30b5743bfa85fed1d945e32c6c650

https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/cdaf/dfca5ca30b5743bfa85fed1d945e32c6c650.pdf?_ga=2.174095530.981028194.1552241913-797178578.1549732210

 Sabbi Jan*
Cytogenetics and Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Kashmir, 190 006, J&K, India.

Aijaz A. Wani
Cytogenetics and Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Kashmir, 190 006, J&K, India.

Azra N. Kamili
Centre of Research for Development, University of Kashmir 190 006, J&K, India.

Mahpara Kashtwari
Cytogenetics and Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Kashmir, 190 006, J&K, India.

Corresponding Author Email: sabiyajaan26@gmail.com

Abstract

Crocus sativus L. is native to Iran and Greece, and is now cultivated largely in Southern Europe, Tibet and other countries. In India, it is mainly cultivated in Kashmir. C. sativus is an important medicinal plant with aphrodisiac, antispasmodic, expectorant, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-depressant, anticancer and anti-tumor activities. Phytochemical investigations of the species have revealed the presence of a number of important carotenoids especially crocetin and its glycosidic forms such as crocin, picrocrocin and safranal. The genetic origin of C. sativus is believed to have occurred by auto-triploidy or by allopolyploidy and Crocus cartwrightianus is believed to be its most probable ancestor. World over, saffron shows a declining trend in production and productivity due to high labour cost, lack of variability for major economic traits and poor economic returns. This review focuses on the detailed distribution, chemical composition and the medicinal importance of saffron..

KEYWORDS:

Crocus sativus, crocin, picrocrocin, safranal, medicinal properties

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5897/AJPS2014.1221

https://deluxe.com.ua/media/pdf/Medicinal_importance_of_saffron.pdf

https://academicjournals.org/journal/AJPS/article-abstract/5D100A149355

* Izharul Hasan, **Abdul Haseeb Ansari, **A.M.K Sherwani, ***Mohd Zulkifle

*Dept of Preventive and Social Medicine, National Institute of Unani Medicine Bangalore, Karnataka, India.

**Lecturer, Dept of Preventive and Social Medicine, NIUM Bangalore, Karnataka, India.

***HOD and Reader, Dept of Preventive and Social Medicine, NIUM Bangalore, Karnataka, India.

ABSTRACT

Saffron is a reddish-golden colored spice derived from the styles and stigmas of the flower of the saffron crocus (Crocus sativus). In ancient cultures, saffron was used to relieve stomachaches and kidney stones and also as an agent in improving the circulation of blood. Saffron’s healing effects were also recognized in the US long ago and some grandmothers still mix a few sprigs of saffron in hot milk for their grandchildren to drink. Today, saffron is used for a wide variety of health conditions and many of its benefits have been validated by scientific studies. Saffron contains a number of carotenoids, which are believed to be largely responsible for a number of saffron’s health benefits, including inhibiting skin tumors, improving arthritis and improving eye and vision health. The active constituents in saffron are also known to produce positive effects on people with neurodegenerative disorders. Medical studies have shown that saffron helps in enhancing oxygen diffusivity in plasma and other liquids while improving pulmonary oxygenation. It also helps to lower the levels of bad cholesterol and triglycerides. Saffron also contains the compound “crocin”, which scientists believe to be the primary compound responsible for recent study results, which found saffron promotes learning, memory retention, and recall capacity.

Keyword :

Saffron, Crocus sativus, Crocin, Carotenoids

http://jprsolutions.info/newfiles/journal-file-56e950232f4a49.93145615.pdf

Journal of Pharmacy Research Vol.4.Issue 7. July 2011

Schmidt M¹, Betti G, Hensel A.

1-Herbresearch Germany, Tussenhausen, Germany. schmidt@herbresearch.de

Abstract

Saffron (stigmata of Crocus sativus L.) has been used for medicinal purposes for millennia. Throughout history, uses against cancer and depressive mood can regularly be identified. These applications have also been in the focus of modern research. Promising and selective anti-cancer effects have been observed in vitro and in vivo, but not yet in clinical trials. Antidepressant effects were found in vivo and in clinical pilot studies. Saffron extracts thus have the potential to make a major contribution to rational phytotherapy.

Keywords :

Crocus sativus, Pharmacology, Clinical application Depression, Cancer

DOI: 10.1007/s10354-007-0428-4

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17704979

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10354-007-0428-4

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/6134786_Saffron_in_Phytotherapy_Pharmacology_and_Clinical_Uses

https://www.unboundmedicine.com/medline/citation/17704979/Saffron_in_phytotherapy:_pharmacology_and_clinical_uses_

Akhondzadeh S¹, Fallah-Pour H, Afkham K, Jamshidi AH, Khalighi-Cigaroudi F.

1-Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, South Kargar Street, Tehran 13185, Iran. s.akhond@neda.net

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

The morbidity and mortality associated with depression are considerable and continue to increase. Depression currently ranks fourth among the major causes of disability worldwide, after lower respiratory infections, prenatal conditions, and HIV/AIDS. Crocus sativus L. is used to treat depression. Many medicinal plants textbooks refer to this indication whereas there is no evidence-based document. Our objective was to compare the efficacy of stigmas of Crocus sativus (saffron) with imipramine in the treatment of mild to moderate depression in a 6-week pilot double-blind randomized trial.

METHODS:

Thirty adult outpatients who met the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition for major depression based on the structured clinical interview for DSM IV participated in the trial. Patients have a baseline Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression score of at least 18. In this double-blind, single-center trial, patients were randomly assigned to receive capsule of saffron 30 mg/day (TDS) (Group 1) and capsule of imipramine 100 mg/day (TDS) (Group 2) for a 6-week study.

RESULTS:

Saffron at this dose was found to be effective similar to imipramine in the treatment of mild to moderate depression (F = 2.91, d.f. = 1, P = 0.09). In the imipramine group anticholinergic effects such as dry mouth and also sedation were observed more often that was predictable.

CONCLUSION:

The main overall finding from this study is that saffron may be of therapeutic benefit in the treatment of mild to moderate depression. To the best of our knowledge this is the first clinical trial that supports this indication for saffron. A large-scale trial with placebo control is warranted.

Keywords

Imipramine , Mirtazapine ,Crocus Sativus,Moderate Depression,Sodium Starch Glycolate

DOI: 10.1186/1472-6882-4-12

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15341662

https://www.unboundmedicine.com/medline/citation/15341662/Comparison_of_Crocus_sativus_L__and_imipramine_in_the_treatment_of_mild_to_moderate_depression:_a_pilot_double_blind_randomized_trial_[ISRCTN45683816]_

https://bmccomplementalternmed.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1472-6882-4-12

https://bmccomplementalternmed.biomedcentral.com/track/pdf/10.1186/1472-6882-4-12

Akhondzadeh S¹, Sabet MS, Harirchian MH, Togha M, Cheraghmakani H, Razeghi S, Hejazi SSh, Yousefi MH, Alimardani R, Jamshidi A, Zare F, Moradi A.

1- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran Institute of Medicinal Plants (ACECR), Department of Neurology, Tehran, Iran. s.akhond@neda.net

Abstract

WHAT IS KNOWN:

Herbal medicines have been used in the treatment of behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia but with variable response. Crocus sativus (saffron) may inhibit the aggregation and deposition of amyloid β in the human brain and may therefore be useful in Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

OBJECTIVE:

The goal of this study was to assess the efficacy of saffron in the treatment of mild to moderate AD.

METHODS:

Forty-six patients with probable AD were screened for a 16-week, double-blind study of parallel groups of patients with mild to moderate AD. The psychometric measures, which included AD assessment scale-cognitive subscale (ADAS-cog), and clinical dementia rating scale-sums of boxes, were performed to monitor the global cognitive and clinical profiles of the patients. Patients were randomly assigned to receive capsule saffron 30 mg/day (15 mg twice per day) (Group A) or capsule placebo (two capsules per day) for a 16-week study.

RESULTS:

After 16 weeks, saffron produced a significantly better outcome on cognitive function than placebo (ADAS-cog: F=4·12, d.f.=1, P=0·04; CDR: F=4·12, d.f.=1, P=0·04). There were no significant differences in the two groups in terms of observed adverse events.

WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION:

This double-blind, placebo-controlled study suggests that at least in the short-term, saffron is both safe and effective in mild to moderate AD. Larger confirmatory randomized controlled trials are called for.

Keywords:

Alzheimer’s disease, clinical trial, saffron

DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2710.2009.01133.x

http://www.nature4science.com/zaffronel/Saffron-and-alzheimer-clinical-study.pdf

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20831681

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1365-2710.2009.01133.x

 Abe K¹, Saito H.

1 – Laboratory of Chemical Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan

Abstract

Crocus sativus L., commonly known as saffron, is used in folk medicine for various purposes. Modern pharmacological studies have demonstrated that saffron extracts have antitumour effects, radical scavenger properties or hypolipaemic effects. Among the constituents of saffron extract, crocetin is mainly responsible for these pharmacological activities. In addition, recent behavioural and electrophysiological studies have demonstrated that saffron extract affects learning and memory in experimental animals. Saffron extract improved ethanol-induced impairments of learning behaviours in mice, and prevented ethanol-induced inhibition of hippocampal long-term potentiation, a form of activity-dependent synaptic plasticity that may underly learning and memory. This effect of saffron extract is attributed to crocin (crocetin di-gentiobiose ester), but not crocetin. Saffron extract or its active constituents, crocetin and crocin, could be useful as a treatment for neurodegenerative disorders accompanying memory impairment

Keywords:

Crocus sativus, saffron, crocetin ,crocin, learning behaviour, long‐term potentiation, hippocampus

DOI: – https://doi.org/10.1002/(SICI)1099-1573(200005)14:3<149::AID-PTR665>3.0.CO;2-5

http://memory-sure.weebly.com/uploads/2/7/5/9/27594461/crocin.pdf

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10815004

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/%28SICI%291099-1573%28200005%2914%3A3%3C149%3A%3AAID-PTR665%3E3.0.CO%3B2-5

Mohsen Khalili ¹; Zahra Kiasalari¹; Batol Rahmati¹; Jamshid Narenjkar²

¹Dept of Physiology and Neuroscience Research Center, Shahed University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran

²Dept of Pharmacology, Shahed University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Background and Objectives: There is well established the beneficial effects of Crocus sativus extract in learning and memory improvement. In the present study the effect of this plant in memory behavioral impairment and forbrain histological damage induced by STZ-icv model of Alzheimer disease were investigated. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted at Shahed University (Tehran) in 2007. Forty five male rats were divided into three 15 number groups: 1- Control which received CSF bilaterally two times in 1 and 3 days (10 µl in each injection ) 2- STZ-icv, streptozotocin (3 mg/kg) dissolved in CSF was injected (icv) to the animals. 3- STZ+CSE, the STZ-icv animals received the plant extract (30 mg/kg; i.p) one other day as treatment ones. All of the animal groups were weighted and subjected to memory behavioral passive avoidance test and brain histological damage analysis.      Results: STZ caused selective injury to the fornix and hippocampus and an enlargement as well as loss of ependymal cell in third ventricle. However, STZ-icv treated animals with CSE (30 mg/kg, i.p) one other day starting one day pre-surgery for three weeks show higher correct choice and lower errors in shuttle box test than vehicle-treated STZ-injected rats. But the same CSE treatment rats did not show any antagonizing effects on STZ-icv induced histological impairment. Conclusion: Our findings provide an explanation for effectiveness of CSE in preventing the cognitive deficits caused by STZ-icv in rats, which mediated by enzymes, metabolisms (glucose utilization) and other biochemical pathways, but not via histological injury repair. 

Keywords:
Memory; Crocus sativus; Streptozocin; Neurotoxicity Syndrome; Rat

http://ijp.iranpath.org/article_8868.html

https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/3c3f/ab6b4f8baed010cc6e3aac7dcde1787beeb3.pdf

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Behavioral-and-Histological-Analysis-of-Crocus-in-Khalili-Kiasalari/3c3fab6b4f8baed010cc6e3aac7dcde1787beeb3

Milajerdi A¹, Jazayeri S², Hashemzadeh N³, Shirzadi E³, Derakhshan Z³, Djazayeri A¹, Akhondzadeh S⁴.

1-Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

2-Department of Nutrition, School of Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

3-Isfahan Diabetes Society, Natanz, Isfahan, Iran.

4-Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Background: Metabolic control is a major concern in preventing diabetic complications. Saffron as a natural source of antioxidants could play a role in alleviating diabetes insults. The aim of this study was to investigate effect of saffron hydroalcoholic extract on metabolic control in type 2 diabetes (T2D) mellitus. Materials and Methods: This randomized triple blind study was included 54 T2D patients which randomly received either saffron (Group 1) or placebo (Group 2) twice daily other than routine antidiabetic treatments for 8 weeks. Serum concentration of fasting blood sugar (FBS), 2-h plasma glucose, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), total cholesterol, triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein, and high-density lipoprotein were measured as the markers of metabolic control. Anthropometric measures and blood pressure were also measured at the baseline, every 2 weeks during the intervention and the end of the study. Data analyzed using repeated measure analysis of variance test. Results: The baseline metabolic parameters were the same in two group (P > 0.01). FBS serum level significantly decreased within 8 weeks in the saffron group (128.84 ± 31.86) as compared to the placebo (153.76 ± 41.23), (P < 0.001). There was no statistical difference in other metabolic parameters such as serum lipids, blood pressure, and HbA1c (P > 0.01). Conclusion: Saffron hydroalcoholic extract may improve blood glucose control by reducing FBS in T2D patients. However, saffron extract has no significant effect on other aspects of diabetic control in diabetic patients.

Keywords:

Diabetes mellitus; fasting blood glucose; lipid; metabolic syndrome; saffron extract

DOI: 10.4103/jrms.JRMS_286_17

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29531568

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/The-effect-of-saffron-(Crocus-sativus-L.)-extract-2-Milajerdi-Jazayeri/c3eb8525a608f90f2ab68590dd3edff4c9034597

https://app.dimensions.ai/details/publication/pub.1101138498?and_facet_journal=jour.1103977

Crozet :Hameau de Sus-Rousset, Saint-Jean de DurefortParisFrance

Formation Continue Matière Médicale Pratique

First Online: 25 May 2012

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10298-012-0706-1

https://www.tib.eu/en/search/id/springer%3Adoi~10.1007%252Fs10298-012-0706-1/Crocus-sativus-L-Iridaceae-le-

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs10298-012-0706-1

AlirezaMilajerdi^a , KuroshDjafarian ^b

a-School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

b-Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Background and aims

Saffron is a spice with preventive and curative effects. This study aimed to review the toxicity of saffron extract and its constituents on normal and cancer cells.

Methods

We searched the PubMed, Science direct, SID and Magiran databases up to November 2015 using the following key words: toxicity, saffron, crocin, crocetin, safranal, cancer. Finally, 73 English and 5 Persian articles were selected to be recruited to be reviewed.

Results

Saffron has selective toxicity against cancer cells, through inhibition of RNA and DNA synthesis and increasing apoptosis. Crocin has been considered as the most important anticancer agent of saffron that plays a role in gene expression and apoptosis in cancer cells. Crocetin has an inhibitory effect on the cancer cells growth that may be due to reduced synthesis of DNA, RNA and protein in neoplastic cells, RNA polymerase II inhibition, and interaction with histone H1 and H1-DNA structures. Saffron and its crocin and crocetinhave also shown anticancer and cancer-preventive effects in animal models of cancer. Safranal also has shown antitumor activity with low toxicity. On the other hand, the lethal dose of 50% (LD50) for the saffron and its constituents against normal cells can be very high.

Conclusion

In conclusion, emerging evidence suggests that saffron extract and its crocin, crocetin and safranal have a selective toxicity effects against cancer cells and also may have cancer preventive functions. However, Saffron and its constituent’s toxicity against normal cells is negligible and they are even non-toxic in oral administration.

DoI https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jnim.2015.12.332

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352385915300116?via%3Dihub

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/289994359_The_toxicity_of_saffron_Crocus_sativus_L_and_its_constituents_against_normal_and_cancer_cells

Prasan R.Bhandari

Department of Pharmacology, S.D.M College of Medical Sciences & Hospital, Sattur, Dharwad 580009, Karnataka, India

Abstract

Cancer is one of the most feared diseases globally and there has been a sustained rise in its incidence in both developing and developed countries. Despite the growing therapeutic options for patients with cancer, their efficacy is time-limited and non-curative. Hence to overcome these drawbacks, an incessant screening for superior and safer drugs has been ongoing for numerous decades, resulting in the detection of anti-cancer properties of several phytochemicals. Chemoprevention using readily available natural substances from vegetables, fruits, herbs and spices is one of the significantly important approaches for cancer prevention in the present era. Among the spices, Crocus sativus L. (saffron; 番紅花 fān hóng huā) has generated interest because pharmacological experiments have established numerous beneficial properties including radical scavenging, anti-mutagenic and immuno-modulating effects. The more powerful components of saffron are crocin, crocetin and safranal. Studies in animal models and with cultured human malignant cell lines have demonstrated antitumor and cancer preventive activities of saffron and its main ingredients. This review provides a brief insight into the anticancer properties of saffron and its components.

Keyword

Anticancer; Cancer; Chemoprevention; Crocus sativus; Pharmacology; Saffron

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtcme.2014.10.009

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2225411014000194?via%3Dihub

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26151016

Mina Hemmati ¹ , Omid Mehrpour ², Mehdi Karamian³

1,2,3 : Birjand University of Medical Sciences

Abstract

Atherogenic dyslipidemia, characterized by an increased level of lipoprotein (a) and a decreased level of adiponectin, is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases in diabetic patients. To reduce cardiovascular risk in diabetic patients, use of agents with antidiabetic and anti-atherogenic potential is required. Using an animal model of diabetes, we investigated the antiatherogenic potential of extracts of three medicinal plants: jujube, barberry, and saffron. For this, serum level of fasting blood glucose, lipid profile, malondialdehyde, total antioxidant capacity, adiponectin and lipoprotein (a) in diabetic control and extract treated groups were measured. Statistical analysis of measurements showed that serum levels of fasting blood glucose, triglyceride, and VLDL decreased significantly (P < 0.05) in all treated groups. Treatment with all extracts reduced lipid peroxidation and increased antioxidant capacity of the experimental diabetic groups. Serum adiponectin levels increased in all treated groups, whereas lipoprotein (a) levels decreased, most markedly when treated with jujube extract. Jujube, saffron, and barberry extracts are beneficial in ameliorating oxidative stress and atherogenic risk of diabetic rats. This highlights the benefits of further investigating the cardio-protective potential of medicinal plant extracts and evaluating their usefulness as cardio protective agents in clinical practice.

DOI: .. http://dx.doi.org/10.17179/excli2015-232

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/281577126_Anti-atherogenic_potential_of_jujube_saffron_and_barberry_Anti-diabetic_and_antioxidant_actions

http://www.excli.de/vol14/Hemmati_04082015_proof.pdf

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4650949/

Duhamels 1728 treatise on the violet root rot of saffron crocus crocus sativus physical explanation of a disease that kills several plants in the gastinois and saffron in particular

Zadoks, J.C.

Mededelingen Landbouwhogeschool Wageningen 81(7): 1-8

1981

This paper offers a translation in English of DuHamel’s 1728 text, published in French, on the violet root rot of the saffron crocus (C. sativus L.), caused by the fungus currently called Helicobasidium purpureum Pat. (imperfect form Rhizoctonia crocorum (Pers.) DC). The original text is reproduced. The introduction contains some biographical, phytopathological and epidemiological notes. The paper reproduces the earliest experimental study in plant pathology presently known. 

https://eurekamag.com/research/005/198/005198587.php

Shati AA¹, Alamri SA.

1- Department of Biology, College of Science, King Khalid University, PO Box 10255, Abha 61321, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. shati100@yahoo.com

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To study the biochemical and molecular hepatotoxicity induced by aluminium chloride (AlCl3) and the protective role of saffron and honey against such toxicity.

METHODS:

This study was performed in the Department of Biology, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia between July and August 2009. Two mice strains, BALB/c and C57BL/6 (20 animals from each strain), were used and randomly divided into 4 groups: control group; AlCl3 group; AlCl3+saffron group; and AlCl3+honey group. Changes in liver biochemical markers such as gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and total bilirubin and lipid peroxidation levels were estimated. Induced and suppressed mRNA in the liver homogenate was scanned followed by up- and down- regulated genes were isolated, cloned, and sequenced.

RESULTS:

There was a significant increase in the cholesterol levels, triglycerides, GGT, ALT, AST, ALP, lipid peroxidation, and presence of hyperglycemia in the AlCl3 group compared to the control. However, treating those animals exposed to AlCl3 by saffron and honey improved the disrupted liver biochemical markers and alleviated the increase of lipid peroxidation. Seven down-regulated genes (3 BALB/c and 4 C57BL/6) and 5 up-regulated genes (2 BALB/c and 3 C57BL/6) were observed. Aa2-245 gene was observed as being up-regulated in AlCl3+ saffron and AlCl3+honey groups in the BALB/c strain.

CONCLUSION:

The use of saffron and honey minimized the toxic effect of AlCl3 in the liver by alleviating its disruptive effect on the biochemical and molecular levels.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20953525

https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/573d/fbb46a3ef7a290380695dff3379cc848e3d9.pdf

https://www.smj.org.sa/index.php/smj/article/view/7033/4807

Schmidt, Mathias¹/ Betti, Georges / Hensel, Andreas

1-Herbresearch Germany, Tussenhausen, Germany. schmidt@herbresearch.de

in Wiener Medizinische Wochenschrift ; 157 , 13 ; 315-319

Wiener Medizinische Wochenschrift

Springer-Verlag , Vienna; 2007

Abstract

Zusammenfassung

Safran (Stigmata von Crocus sativus L.) wird seit Jahrtausenden für medizinische Zwecke verwendet. Im Verlauf der Geschichte lässt sich regelmäßig die Verwendung gegen Krebsleiden und bei depressiver Verstimmung identifizieren. Diese Anwendungen waren auch Schwerpunkt der modernen Forschung. Vielversprechende und selektive Effekte gegen Krebs wurden in vitro und in vivo beobachtet, während antidepressive Effekte sowohl in vivo als auch in klinischen Pilot-studien bestätigt wurden. Safranextrakte haben daher das Potenzial, einen wesentlichen Beitrag zur rationalen Phytotherapie zu leisten.

Summary

Saffron (stigmates of Crocus sativus L.) has been used for medicinal purposes for millenaries. Throughout history, uses against cancer and depressive mood can regularly be identified. These applications have also been in the focus of modern research. Promising and selective anti-cancer effects have been observed in vitro and in vivo, but not yet in clinical trials. Antidepressant effects were found in vivo and in clinical pilot studies. Saffron extracts thus have the potential to make a major contribution to rational phytotherapy.

Keywords:
Crocus sativus , Pharmakologie, Klinische Verwendung, Depression, Krebs

Crocus sativus , Pharmacology, Clinical application, Depression, Cancer

Medicine & Public Health, Medicine/Public Health, general, Pharmacology/Toxicology, General Practice / Family Medicine, Geriatrics/Gerontology, Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10354-007-0428-4

https://www.tib.eu/en/search/id/springer%3Adoi~10.1007%252Fs10354-007-0428-4/Saffron-in-phytotherapy-Pharmacology-and-clinical/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17704979

   Lautenschläger M¹, Sendker J¹, Hüwel S², Galla HJ², Brandt S¹, Düfer M³, Riehemann K⁴, Hensel A⁵

1-University of Münster, Institute for Pharmaceutical Biology and Phytochemistry, Corrensstraße 48, D-48149 Münster, Germany.

2-University of Münster, Institute for Biochemistry, Wilhelm-Klemm-Str. 2, D-48149 Münster, Germany.

3-University of Münster, Institute for Pharmaceutical and Medical Chemistry, Department of Pharmacology, Corrensstraße 48, D-48149 Münster, Germany.

4-Center for Nanotechnology/Institute of Physics, Heisenbergstraße 11, D-48149 Münster, Germany.

5-University of Münster, Institute for Pharmaceutical Biology and Phytochemistry, Corrensstraße 48, D-48149 Münster, Germany. Electronic address: ahensel@uni-muenster.de

Abstract

Abstract Aims : Extracts of saffron ( Crocus sativus L.) have traditionally been used against depressions. Recent preclinical and clinical investigations have rationalized this traditional use. Tran s-crocetin, a saffron metabolite originating from the crocin apocarotenoids, has been shown to exert strong NMDA receptor affinity and is thought to be responsible for the CNS activity of saffron. Pharmacokinetic properties of the main constituents from saffron have only been described to a limited extent. Therefore the present in vitro study aimed to determine if crocin-1 and trans- crocetin are able to pass the intestinal barrier and to penetrate the blood brain barrier (BBB). Additionally, the intestinal conversion of glycosylated crocins to the lipophilic crocetin had to be investigated. Experiments with Caco-2 cells and two different porcine BBB systems were conducted. Further on, potential intestinal metabolism of saffron extract was investigated by ex vivo experiments with murine intestine. Methodology: In vitro Caco-2 monolayer cell culture was used for investigation of intestinal permeation of crocin-1 and trans -crocetin. In vitro models of porcine brain capillary endothelial cells (BCEC) and blood cerebrospinal fluid barrier (BCSFB) were used for monitoring permeation characteristics of trans -crocetin through the blood brain barrier (BBB). Intestine tissue and feces homogenates from mice served for metabolism experiments. Results : Crocin-1, even at high concentrations (1000 µM) does not penetrate Caco-2 monolayers in relevant amounts. In contrast, trans -crocetin permeates in a concentration-independent manner (10–114 µM) the intestinal barrier by transcellular passage with about 32% of the substrate being transported within 2 h and a permeation coefficient of P app 25.7 × 10 − 6  ± 6.23 × 10 − 6  cm/s. Trans -crocetin serves as substrate for pGP efflux pump. Trans -crocetin permeates BBB with a slow but constant velocity over a 29 h period (BCEC system: P app 1.48 × 10 − 6  ± 0.12 × 10 − 6  cm/s; BCSFB system P app 3.85 × 10 − 6  ± 0.21 × 10 − 6  cm/s). Conversion of glycosylated crocins from saffron extract to trans -crocetin occurs mainly by intestinal cells, rather than by microbiological fermentation in the colon. Conclusion : The here described in vitro studies have shown that crocins from saffron are probably not bioavailable in the systemic compartment after oral application. On the other side the investigations clearly have pointed out that crocins get hydrolyzed in the intestine to the deglycosylated trans- crocetin, which subsequently is absorbed by passive transcellular diffusion to a high extend and within a short time interval over the intestinal barrier. Crocetin will penetrate in a quite slow process the blood brain barrier to reach the CNS. The intestinal deglycosylation of different crocins in the intestine is mainly due to enzymatic processes in the epithelial cells and only to a very minor extent due to deglycosylation by the fecal microbiome. On the other side the fecal bacteria degrade the apocarotenoid backbone to smaller alkyl units, which do not show any more the typical UV absorbance of crocins. As previous studies have shown strong NMDA receptor affinity and channel opening activity of trans -crocetin the use of saffron for CNS disorders seems to be justified from the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic background…

DOI:  10.1016/j.phymed.2014.10.009

https://scinapse.io/papers/1983086924

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25636868

Mathias Schmidt ¹, Georges Betti ², Andreas Hensel³

1-Herbresearch GermanyTussenhausenGermany

2-Medicinal & Aromatic Plants R&D, Les Algorithmes – Aristote ASophia AntipolisFrance

3- Institute for Pharmaceutical Biology und PhytochemistryMünsterGermany

Abstract

Saffron (stigmates of Crocus sativus L.) has been used for medicinal purposes for millenaries. Throughout history, uses against cancer and depressive mood can regularly be identified. These applications have also been in the focus of modern research. Promising and selective anti-cancer effects have been observed in vitro and in vivo, but not yet in clinical trials. Antidepressant effects were found in vivo and in clinical pilot studies. Saffron extracts thus have the potential to make a major contribution to rational phytotherapy.

Keywords:

Crocus sativus  ,Pharmacology ,Clinical application, Depression ,Cancer 

DOI:   https://doi.org/10.1007/s10354-007-0428-4

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs10354-007-0428-4

https://www.tib.eu/en/search/id/springer%3Adoi~10.1007%252Fs10354-007-0428-4/Saffron-in-phytotherapy-Pharmacology-and-clinical/

Broadhead GK¹, Chang A¹, Grigg J¹, McCluskey P¹.

1-a Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney , Sydney , Australia.

Abstract

Saffron (Crocus savitus) is a Middle-Eastern herb with strong antioxidant properties. Its major constituents, safranal, crocin, and crocetin, are also antioxidants and bear structural similarities to other well-known natural antixodant substances, such as zeaxanthin. Given the role of oxidative stress in many diseases, considerable interest has been shown into the potential role of saffron supplementation as a treatment for a range of diseases. In vitro and animal studies have provided evidence that saffron and its constituents may be potent therapies for a range of pathologies, including Alzheimer’s disease, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cardiac ischemia. Whether these findings translate into clinical efficacy, however, has as of yet been incompletely assessed. This makes assessing the role of saffron supplementation in these diseases difficult. Here, we review the current human clinical evidence supporting saffron supplementation as a treatment for a range of pathologies and the underlying science supporting its use.

Keywords

Saffron, clinical studies, carotenoids, antioxidant

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2013.879467

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10408398.2013.879467

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25875654

Agha-Hosseini M¹, Kashani L, Aleyaseen A, Ghoreishi A, Rahmanpour H, Zarrinara AR, Akhondzadeh S.

1-Infertility Center of Dr Shariati Hospital, Vali Asr Reproductive Health Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1783/147118908786000361
https://srh.bmj.com/content/34/4/272.1

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18271889

https://srh.bmj.com/content/familyplanning/34/4/272.1.full.pdf

Safarinejad MR¹, Shafiei N, Safarinejad S.
1-Private Practice of Urology and Andrology, Tehran, Iran. safarinejad@urologist.md

Abstract

Male factor infertility is a multifactorial disorder that affects a significant percentage of infertile couples; however, many of them remained untreated. In recent years, considerable numbers of infertile men have sought ‘herbal remedies’ as an effective treatment. Among ‘herbal remedies’, saffron is recommended for male infertility in our community. The effect of saffron was evaluated compared with placebo for the treatment of idiopathic male factor infertility. The study included 260 infertile men with idiopathic oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT) who were randomized to saffron 60 mg/day (130, group 1) or a similar regimen of placebo (130, group 2) for 26 weeks. The two groups were compared for changes in semen parameters and total seminal plasma antioxidant capacity. Saffron administration did not result in beneficial effects. At the end of the study no statistically significant improvements were observed in either group in any of the studied semen parameters (sperm density, morphology and motility) (all p = 0.1). At the end of the trial, patients in group 1 had a mean motility of 25.7 ± 2.4%, which was not statistically different from the mean of 24.9 ± 2.8% in the placebo group (p = 0.1). Normal sperm morphology was 18.7 ± 4.7% and 18.4 ± 4.3%, in groups 1 and 2, respectively (p = 0.1). Patients treated with saffron and placebo had a mean sperm density of 20.5 ± 4.6% and 21.4 ± 4.6% per mL, respectively (p = 0.1). Saffron administration did not improve total seminal plasma antioxidant capacity, compared with baseline (p = 0.1) and placebo subjects (p = 0.1). Based on Pearson correlations, each semen parameter did not correlate significantly with treatment duration, including sperm density (r = 0.146, p = 0.13), percent of motile sperm (r = 0.145, p = 0.15) and percent of sperm with normal morphology (r = 0.125, p = 0.30). Saffron does not statistically significantly improve semen parameters in infertile men with idiopathic OAT. If medical professionals want to prescribe herbal remedies for male infertility, previous rigorous scientific investigations, documenting their safety and efficacy are required.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.3294

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20824894

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ptr.3294

Pitsikas N:  Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Panepistimiou 3 (Biopolis), Larissa 41500, Greece. npitsikas@med.uth.gr.

Abstract

Anxiety disorders and schizophrenia are common public health issues. The dried stigma of the plant Crocus sativus L., (C. sativus) commonly known as saffron are used in folk medicine for various purposes. Several lines of evidence suggest that C. sativus, crocins and safranal are implicated in anxiety and schizophrenia. Here, I intend to critically review advances in research of these emerging molecules for the treatment of anxiety and schizophrenia, discuss their advantages over currently used anxiolytics and neuroleptics, as well remaining challenges. Current analysis shows that C. sativus and its components might be a promising class of compounds for the treatment of the above mentioned psychiatric diseases.

Keywords

Crocus sativus L.; anxiety; schizophrenia; stress

DOI: 10.3390/molecules21030303

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26950102

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Constituents-of-Saffron-(Crocus-sativus-L.)-as-for-Pitsikas/8e2510dd3e7d5399c090c88552bc16ecd825f99f

https://www.purecrocin.com/en/blog/6/Constituents-of-Saffron-as-Potential-Candidates-for-the-Treatment-of-Schizophrenia/

  Giaccio M: Dipartimento di Scienze, Università “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, Viale Pindaro, 42, 65127 Pescara, Italy. giaccio@sci.unich.it

Abstract

The known properties of saffron (Crocus sativus, L.) and its components have been examined. Recently, hormone like effects in green algae and the anti-cancerogenic and anti-toxic effects, have been observed. In particular, the effects of crocetin, a carotenoids (8,8′-diapo-8,8′-carotenoic acid) present in saffron and characterized by a diterpenic and symmetrical structure with seven double bonds and four methyl groups, have been taken into consideration. It has been found that this compound enhances the oxygen diffusivity through liquids, such as plasma. As a consequence of this property, it has been observed that crocetin increases alveolar oxygen transport and enhances pulmonary oxygenation. It improves cerebral oxygenation in hemorrhaged rats and positively acts in the atherosclerosis and arthritis treatment. It inhibits skin tumor promotion in mice (i.e., with benzo(a)pyrene); it has an inhibitory effect on intracellular nucleic acid and protein synthesis in malignant cells, as well as on protein-kinase-C and prorooncogene in INNIH/3T3 cells. This is most likely due to its anti-oxidant activity. Furthermore, crocetin protects against oxidative damage in rat primary hepatocytes. It also suppresses aflatoxin B1-induced hepatotoxic lesions and has a modulatory effect on aflatoxin, B1 cytotoxicity, and DNA adduct formation on C3H10/T1/2 fibroblast cells. It also has a protective effect on the bladder toxicity, induced by cyclophosphamide. The experiments reported in the scientific literature and the interesting results obtained have been carried out in vitro or on laboratory animals, but not yet on man.

Keywords

crocetin, saffron, oxygen diffusivity in liquids, anti-oxidant, anti-toxic, anti-carcinogenic

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/10408690490441433

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10408690490441433

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15239370

Kianbakht & A. Ghazavi

Abstract

Saffron is the dried stigmata of the flowers of saffron (Crocus sativus L.). Saffron is rich in carotenoids and carotenoids affect immunity. Thus, in this randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled clinical trial with healthy men aged 21.4 ± 0.8 years (mean ± SE), the effects of taking one 100 mg saffron tablet daily for 6 weeks on the blood serum levels of IgG, IgM, IgA, C₃ and C₄ complements, counts and percentages of white blood cells, platelets, neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, lymphocytes and monocytes, levels of some hematological parameters and levels of creatinine, SGOT and SGPT were evaluated in 45 subjects and compared with the placebo group (n = 44). After 3 weeks, saffron increased the IgG level and decreased the IgM level compared with the baseline and placebo (p < 0.01), decreased the percentage of basophils and the count of platelets compared with baseline, but increased the percentage of monocytes compared with placebo (p < 0.05). However, these parameters returned to the baseline levels after 6 weeks. Saffron did not have any significant effects on the other parameters. No adverse effects were reported. The results suggest that the sub‐chronic daily use of 100 mg saffron has temporary immunomodulatory activities without any adverse effects. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key words
saffron   , immune system , humoral , innate , volunteer

DoI  : https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.3484

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/ptr.3484

Mohammad Nemat Shahi,¹ Atefeh Asadi,² Elham Behnam Talab,¹ and Mahbobeh Nemat Shahi¹

1.Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Abaresh, Iran

2.Health Department, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Abaresh, Iran

Abstract

Background and Objective. Drug dependence is one of the serious problems around the world. Saffron is one of those beneficial medicinal plants which is embedded with a similar mechanism to methadone (e.g., inhibition of serotonin reuptake). Thus, it can be helpful in reducing the withdrawal symptoms. The aim of this study was to reduce the daily dose of methadone usage and reduce its side effects using saffron in the form of medicinal supplements. Methodology. This study was categorized as a clinical trial. Accordingly, 44 clients of addiction treatment centers in Sabzevar parish were randomly selected to participate in this study in 2016–2017. While the experimental group was treated with methadone syrup and self-made saffron capsules, the control group received methadone syrup and placebo capsules. Results. The results showed that the use of saffron and methadone alleviated the symptoms of withdrawal syndrome (). Conclusion. Having reviewed the research participants, it was indicated that the introduction of saffron alleviated the symptoms of withdrawal syndrome in patients undergoing maintenance treatment for opioid addiction. Thus, it seems rational to make use of saffron in combination with methadone in order to alleviate the symptoms of withdrawal syndrome.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/1079132

https://www.hindawi.com/journals/amed/2017/1079132/

PDF : http://downloads.hindawi.com/journals/amed/2017/1079132.pdf

 https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/The-Impact-of-Saffron-on-Symptoms-of-Withdrawal-in-Shahi-Asadi/0ac9d7314311216b9b1714511b49d9ccf6850e3a#paper-header

JamshidTabeshpour^ab1FarzanehSobhani^c1 Seyed AlirezaSadjadi^d HosseinHosseinzadeh^eSeyed AhmadMohajeri^f OmidRajabi^g ZhilaTaherzadeh^h

a-Department of pharmacodynamy and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

b-Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

c-Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

d-Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

e-Pharmaceutical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

f-Pharmaceutical research center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

g-Department of Pharmaceutical Control, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iranh-Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Irani-Pharmaceutical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

Abstract

Introduction

Numerous adverse effects of antidepressants as well as the attitudes of breastfeeding mothers, who prefer to consume herbal medicine rather than chemical drugs, encouraged us to assess the effects of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) on mothers suffering from mild-to-moderate postpartum depressive disorder.

Methods

A double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled trial was conducted on 60 new mothers who had a maximum score of 29 on the Beck Depression Inventory-Second Edition (BDI-II). They were randomly assigned to the saffron (15 mg/Bid) or placebo group. The primary outcome was a change in the BDI-II scores 8 weeks after treatment compared to the baseline. The response and remission rates were considered to be secondary outcome measures.

DOI: .. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2017.10.005

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0944711317301447

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29157808

Efentakis P¹, Rizakou A¹, Christodoulou E², Chatzianastasiou A¹, López MG³, León R⁴, Balafas E⁵, Kadoglou NPE², Tseti I⁶, Skaltsa H⁷, Kostomitsopoulos N⁵, Iliodromitis EK⁸, Valsami G², Andreadou I⁹.

1-National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Athens, Greece.

2-National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Athens, Greece.

3-Departamento de Farmacología y Terapéutica, Instituto Téofilo Hernando, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.

4-Departamento de Farmacología y Terapéutica, Instituto Téofilo Hernando, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario la Princesa, Madrid, Spain.

5-Academy of Athens Biomedical Research Foundation, Centre of Clinical Experimental Surgery and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Athens, Greece.

6-Uni-Pharma S.A., Athens, Greece.

7-National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Department of Pharmacognocy and Chemistry of Natural Products, Faculty of Pharmacy, Athens, Greece.

8-National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Second University Department of Cardiology, Athens, Greece.

9-National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Athens, Greece. Electronic address: jandread@pharm.uoa.gr.

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND AIMS:

Saffron is an antioxidant herbal derivative; however, its efficacy as a nutritional cardioprotective agent has not been fully elucidated. We investigated the cardioprotective properties of a standardized saffron aqueous extract (SFE) against ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in Wild-Type (WT) and ApoE^(-/-) mice and the underlying molecular mechanisms.

METHODS AND RESULTS:

WT and ApoE^(-/-) mice were subjected to 30 min I and 2 h R, with the following per os interventions for 4 weeks: 1) WT Control Group, receiving Water for Injection (WFI); 2) WT Crocus Group, receiving SFE at a dose of 60 mg/kg/day; 3) WT Crocus + Wort group, receiving SFE as described above and wortmannin at a dose of 60 μg/kg bolus 15 min before R; 4) ApoE^(-/-) Control Group, receiving WFI; 5) ApoE^(-/-) Crocus Group, receiving SFE at a dose of 60 mg/kg/day and 6) ApoE^(-/-) Crocus + Wort: receiving SFE as described above and wortmannin at a dose of 60 μg/kg bolus, 15 min before R. Ischemic area/area at risk (I/R%) ratio was measured. Blood samples and ischemic myocardial tissue were collected at the 10th min of reperfusion for assessment of troponin I, malondialdehyde (MDA), nitrotyrosine (NT), p-eNOS, eNOS, p-Akt, Akt, p-p42/p-p44, p-GSK3β, GSK3β, IL-6, Nrf2, HO-1 and MnSOD expression. The effect of SFE on Nrf2 expression was also evaluated in vitro. SFE reduced infarct size in WT (16.15 ± 3.7% vs 41.57 ± 2.48%, ***p < 0.001) and in ApoE^(-/-) mice (16.14 ± 1.47% vs 45.57 ± 1.73%, ***p < 0.001). The administration of wortmannin resulted in partial inhibition of the infarct size limitation efficacy of SFE (in both WT and Apo-E^(-/-) mice). Mice receiving SFE showed increased levels of eNOS, p-Akt, p-ERK1/2, p-44/p-42 and p-GSK3β-Ser9 and reduced expression of IL-6 and iNOS; furthermore, SFE reduced the levels of MDA and NT. SFE induced Nrf2 expression and its downstream targets, HO-1 and MnSOD in the myocardium of the treated animals, and induced Nrf2 expression in vitro in a dose-dependent manner.

Keywords :

ApoE((−/−)) mice; Molecular signaling; Myocardial infarct size; Nrf2; Saffron

DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2017.08.005

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28964663

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Saffron-(Crocus-sativus)-intake-provides-against-in-Efentakis-Rizakou/4923a6dd75ecd7a1371def07d5196130f3e16478

http://isiarticles.com/bundles/Article/pre/pdf/158239.pdf

Zheng CJ¹, Li L, Ma WH, Han T, Qin LP.

1- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Guohe Road, Shanghai, PR China.

Abstract

CONTEXT:

Crocus sativus Linn. (Iridaceae), commonly known as saffron, becomes more and more popular due to its versatile biological and medicinal properties. At present, studies mainly focus on the traditional medicinal part, the saffron stigma, with less attention to the other parts of saffron, such as the perianth, the stamen, and the corm, which are high yield compared to the stigma and also possess various pharmacological effects.

OBJECTIVE:

To determine the chemical compositions, antifungal, cytotoxic, and antioxidant activities of the ether fractions from the stamen, perianth, and stigma of saffron.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The chemical constituents of the ether fractions from different parts of saffron were investigated by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Several pathogenic fungi isolates and tumor cell lines were employed to evaluate the antifungal and cytotoxic activities of these three ether fractions. 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl assay was used to determine the free radical-scavenging activity.

RESULTS:

The ether fractions composition of the three C. sativus parts are different from each other, but lauric acid, hexadecanoic acid, 4-hydroxydihydro-2(3H)-furanone, and stigmasterol were the common constituents shared by all the three fractions. The stamen ether fraction displayed the strongest antifungal and cytotoxic activities, whereas both of the saffron stamen and perianth ether fractions exhibited significant antioxidant activities.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION:

These findings demonstrate that the saffron stamen and perianth possess significant antifungal, cytotoxic, and antioxidant activities as well as the stigma, though not to the same extent, prompting us to expand the medicinal resource and make best use of this valuable plant.

DOI: 10.3109/13880209.2010.547206.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21639689

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.3109/13880209.2010.547206

Author(s) :Melnyk, J. P. ;  Wang, S. ;  Marcone, M. F.

Author Affiliation : Department of Food Science, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada.

Author Email : mmarcone@uoguelph.ca

Abstract

Saffron (Crocus sativus, L.) is traditionally used as a coloring or flavoring agent, but recent research has shown its potential to promote health. The constituents of interest include crocin, crocetin, picrocrocin, and safranal which have all demonstrated health promoting properties. Previous studies have found that biological activity of saffron constituents alleviate or prevent such health problems as gastric disorders, cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance, depression, premenstrual syndrome, insomnia, and anxiety. Saffron also shows promise in the prevention and maintenance of cancer due to its antioxidant properties. The present review article highlights the constituents that are important in the treatment of each disorder as well as the mechanisms. Many of the studies were conducted using purified forms of the constituents or completed on animal subjects. The need for human subjects using saffron in its natural form is evident to determine the possible health benefits of dietary saffron.

Keywords:

Saffron , Crocus sativus , Crocin , Crocetin , Picrocrocin , Safranal , Antioxidant , Health , Spice

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodres.2010.07.033

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0963996910002632?via%3Dihub

https://www.cabdirect.org/cabdirect/abstract/20103358404

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0963996910002632?via%3Dihub

Nikolaos Pitsikas

Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Panepistimiou 3, Biopolis, 41500 Larissa, Greece

Abstract

Memory-related disorders are a common public health issue. Memory impairment is frequent in degenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson disease), cerebral injuries, and schizophrenia. The dried stigma of the plant Crocus sativus L. (C. sativus), commonly known as saffron, is used in folk medicine for various purposes. Several lines of evidence suggest that C. sativus and its constituents are implicated in cognition. Here we critically review advances in research of these emerging molecular targets for the treatment of memory disorders, and discuss their advantages over currently used cognitive enhancers as well remaining challenges. Current analysis has shown that C. sativus and its components might be a promising target for cognition impairments.

DOI:  http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2015/926284

http://downloads.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2015/926284.pdf

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/The-Effect-of-Crocus-sativus-L.-and-Its-on-Memory%3A-Pitsikas/2733fa93b838d82f736377b1d25b34a93338ccb2

Mohammad Reza Khazdair,^1,2 Mohammad Hossein Boskabady,¹ Mahmoud Hosseini,^3,* Ramin Rezaee,⁴ and Aristidis M. Tsatsakis⁵

¹Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Postal Code 9177948564, Iran

²Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

³Neurocognitive Research Center and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Postal Code 9177948564, Iran

⁴Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran

⁵Center of Toxicology Science and Research, Division of Morphology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece

^*Corresponding Author: Tel:+98513800222, Fax:+985138828564, ‎Hosseinim@mums.ac.ir

Abstract

Saffron or Crocus sativus L. (C. sativus) has been widely used as a medicinal plant to promote human health, especially in Asia. The main components of saffron are crocin, picrocrocin and safranal. The median lethal doses (LD50) of C. sativus are 200 mg/ml and 20.7 g/kg in vitro and in animal studies, respectively. Saffron has been suggested to be effective in the treatment of a wide range of disorders including coronary artery diseases, hypertension, stomach disorders, dysmenorrhea and learning and memory impairments. In addition, different studies have indicated that saffron has anti-inflammatory, anti-atherosclerotic, antigenotoxic and cytotoxic activities. Antitussive effects of stigmas and petals of C. sativus and its components, safranal and crocin have also been demonstrated. The anticonvulsant and anti-Alzheimer properties of saffron extract were shown in human and animal studies. The efficacy of C. sativus in the treatment of mild to moderate depression was also reported in clinical trial. Administration of C. sativus and its constituents increased glutamate and dopamine levels in the brain in a dose-dependent manner. It also interacts with the opioid system to reduce withdrawal syndrome. Therefore, in the present article, the effects of C. sativus and its constituents on the nervous system and the possible underlying mechanisms are reviewed. Our literature review showed that C. sativus and its components can be considered as promising agents in the treatment of nervous system disorders.

Keywords:

Crocus sativus, Nervous system, Safranal, Crocin, Saffron

DOI 10.22038/ajp.2015.4503

http://ajp.mums.ac.ir/article_4503_4063c5b57e008139e828510da8bc4054.pdf

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4599112/

https://scinapse.io/papers/1886996212

Author(s)Leave a comment

Hosseinali Ettehadi, Seyedeh Nargesolsadat Mojabi, Mina Ranjbaran, Jamal Shams, Hedayat Sahraei, Mahdi Hedayati, Farzad Asefi

Affiliation(s)

Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, and Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Fat Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Institute of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran.
Neuroscience Research Center, Baqyiatallah (a.s.) University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Recent studies involving human and animal models have identified that saffron helps in the improvement of depression. Antidepressants are known to function in part by increasing brain serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine concentrations. Therefore, to identify the cellular and molecular mechanism(s) underlying this property of saffron, we measured changes in rat brain dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine and glutamate concentrations after administration of varying doses of an aqueous extract of saffron stigma. Male Wistar rats (250 ± 30 g) were administered a single dose of saffron extract (5, 25, 50, 100, 150, and 250 mg/kg, i.p.), fluoxetine (10 mg/kg, i.p.), and/or desipramine (50 mg/kg, i.p.) and were sacrificed 30 min later. Brains were removed, homogenized, and centrifuged at 4?C. The supernatant was used for subsequent neurotransmitter detection by ELISA. Our results indicated that the aqueous extract of saffron (50, 100, 150 and 250 mg/kg, i.p.) increased brain dopamine concentration in a dose-dependent manner compared with saline. In addition, the brain glutamate concentration increased in response to the highest dose of the extract (250 mg/kg, i.p.). Interestingly, the extract had no effect on brain serotonin or norepinephrine concentration. Our findings show that the aqueous extract of saffron contains an active component that can trigger production of important neurotransmitters in brain, namely, dopamine and glutamate. In addition, these results provide a cellular basis for reports concerning the antidepressant properties of saffron extract in humans and animals.

Keywords

Saffron; Glutamate; Dopamine; Norepinepherine; Serotonin

DOI:  10.4236/jbbs.2013.33031

https://www.scirp.org/journal/PaperInformation.aspx?PaperID=34789

https://file.scirp.org/pdf/JBBS_2013071810240060.pdf

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/260080975_Aqueous_Extract_of_Saffron_Crocus_sativus_Increases_Brain_Dopamine_and_Glutamate_Concentrations_in_Rats

Leone S¹, Recinella L¹, Chiavaroli A¹, Orlando G¹, Ferrante C¹, Leporini L¹, Brunetti L¹, Menghini L¹.

1- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy

Abstract

Crocus sativus L. (Saffron) has long been known for multiple target therapeutic uses. The plant metabolism is well investigated and the main metabolites related to saffron organoleptic qualities are crocin, crocetin, picrocrocin, and safranal. Particularly, the most abundant of them, such as crocin and safranal, are investigated for their multiple biological activities and known as potential drugs. We aimed to review the constituent features of the plant, along with its potential therapeutic effects in depression, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, cancer, and sexual dysfunction. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Medline, Scopus, and EMBASE, with particular attention to preclinical and clinical studies. Although saffron and its components showed potential clinical applications, further investigations are necessary to confirm the effective use of “Red Gold” and its real applications in clinical practice.

Keywords

Alzheimer; atherosclerosis; cancer; depression; saffron; sexual dysfunction

DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6181

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30136324

22 August 2018 https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.6181

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/ptr.6181

  Akhondzadeh Basti A¹, Moshiri E, Noorbala AA, Jamshidi AH, Abbasi SH, Akhondzadeh S.

1-Department of Food Hygiene, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Depression is one of the most common neuropsychiatric conditions, with a lifetime prevalence approaching 17%. Although a variety of pharmaceutical agents is available for the treatment of depression, psychiatrists find that many patients cannot tolerate the side effects, do not respond adequately, or finally lose their response. On the other hand, many herbs with psychotropic effects have far fewer side effects. They can provide an alternative treatment or be used to enhance the effect of conventional antidepressants. A number of recent preclinical and clinical studies indicate that stigma and petal of Crocus sativus have antidepressant effect. Our objective was to compare the efficacy of petal of C. sativus with fluoxetine in the treatment of depressed outpatients in an 8-week pilot double-blind randomized trial. Forty adult outpatients who met the DSM- IV criteria for major depression based on the structured clinical interview for DSM- IV participated in the trial. Patients have a baseline Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression score of at least 18. In this double-blind and randomized trial, patients were randomly assigned to receive capsule of petal of C. sativus 15 mg bid (morning and evening) (Group 1) and fluoxetine 10 mg bid (morning and evening) (Group 2) for a 8-week study. At the end of trial, petal of C. sativus was found to be effective similar to fluoxetine in the treatment of mild to moderate depression (F=0.03, d.f.=1, P=0.84). In addition, in the both treatments, the remission rate was 25%. There were no significant differences in the two groups in terms of observed side effects. The present study is supportive of other studies which show antidepressant effect of C. sativus.

Keywords

Crocus sativus , Depression , Fluoxetine , Herbal medicine , Petal

DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2006.11.010

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17174460

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/6626559_Comparison_of_petal_of_Crocus_sativus_L_and_fluoxetine_in_the_treatment_of_depressed_outpatients_A_pilot_double-blind_randomized_trial

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0278584606004040

Hossein Hosseinzadeh¹ and Hani M Younesi²

¹Department of Pharmacodynamy and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, PO Box 91775-1365, Mashhad, Iran

²Department of Pharmacodynamy and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, PO Box 91775-1365, Mashhad, Iran

Corresponding author.

Hossein Hosseinzadeh: moc.oohay@hhedazniessoh; Hani M Younesi: ri.ca.smum@ycamrahp-loohcs

Abstract

Background

Crocus sativus L. (saffron) is used in folk medicine, for example as an antiedematogenic agent. We aimed to evaluate the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity of saffron extracts in mice.

Results

We used aqueous and ethanolic maceration extracts of Crocus sativus L. stigma and petals. Antinociceptive activity was examined using the hot plate and writhing tests. The effect of extracts against acute inflammation was studied using xylene induced ear edema in mice. The activity of the extracts against chronic inflammation was assessed by formalin-induced edema in the rat paw. In the hot plate tests, intraperitoneal injection of both extracts showed no significant antinociceptive activity in mice. The extracts exhibited antinociceptive activity against acetic acid induced writhing. Naloxone partially blocked only the antinociceptive activity of the stigma aqueous extract. Only the stigma extracts showed weak to moderate effect against acute inflammation. In chronic inflammation, both aqueous and ethanolic stigma extracts, as well as ethanolic petal extract, exerted anti-inflammatory effects.

Conclusions

We conclude that aqueous and ethanolic extracts of saffron stigma and petal have an antinociceptive effect, as well as acute and/or chronic anti-inflammatory activity.

DOI: 10.1186/1471-2210-2-7

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC101384/

https://bmcpharma.biomedcentral.com/track/pdf/10.1186/1471-2210-2-7?site=bmcpharma.biomedcent

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Antinociceptive-and-anti-inflammatory-effects-of-L.-Hosseinzadeh-Younesi/fe9f27642d51eb56214a6580038bb69f9aac84af

Akhondzadeh S¹, Tahmacebi-Pour N, Noorbala AA, Amini H, Fallah-Pour H, Jamshidi AH, Khani M.

1-Pychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran. s.akhond@neda.net

Abstract

Depression is a serious disorder in today’s society, with estimates of lifetime prevalence as high as 21% of the general population in some developed countries. As a therapeutic plant, saffron is considered excellent for stomach ailments and as an antispasmodic, to help digestion and to increase appetite. It is also used for depression in Persian traditional medicine. Our objective was to assess the efficacy of the stigmas of Crocus sativus (saffron) in the treatment of mild to moderate depression in a 6-week double-blind, placebo-controlled and randomized trial. Forty adult outpatients who met the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition for major depression based on the structured clinical interview for DSM IV participated in the trial. Patients had a baseline Hamilton rating scale for depression score of at least 18. In this double-blind, placebo-controlled, single-centre and randomized trial, patients were randomly assigned to receive a capsule of saffron 30 mg[sol ]day (BD) (Group 1) or a capsule of placebo (BD) (Group 2) for a 6-week study. At 6 weeks, Crocus sativus produced a significantly better outcome on the Hamilton depression rating scale than the placebo (d.f. = 1, F = 18.89, p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in the two groups in terms of the observed side effects. The results of this study indicate the efficacy of Crocus sativus in the treatment of mild to moderate depression. A large-scale trial is justified.

Keywords

Crocus sativus; depression; herbal medicine; saffron.

DOI: 10.1002/ptr.1647

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15852492

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Crocus-sativus-L.-in-the-treatment-of-mild-to-a-and-Akhondzadeh-Tahmacebi-Pour/788ed1f2665296324b76cbaa7853aca4385189ca

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.1647

  Christodoulou E¹, Kadoglou NP^2,3, Kostomitsopoulos N², Valsami G¹.

1-Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics-Pharmacokinetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.

2-Center of Clinical Experimental Surgery and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece.

3-Department of inherited cardiovascular diseases, The Heart Hospital, University College London, London, UK.

Abstract

Objectives

Recently, a great deal of interest has been developed to isolate and investigate novel bioactive components from natural resources with health beneficial effects. Saffron is the dried stigma of Crocus sativus L. and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine mainly for its healing properties, as well as for the treatment of various pathological conditions. Objectives of the present review are to unravel its therapeutic properties and investigate the potential applications of saffron in contemporary therapy of a wide spectrum of diseases and summarize previous and current evidence regarding the biological/pharmacological activities of saffron and its active ingredients and their possible therapeutic uses.

Key findings

Recent phytochemistry and pharmacological experiments have indicated that crocin and safranal, the major active ingredients of saffron, exert important actions, such as antioxidant, anti‐tumor, anti‐diabetic, anti‐inflammatory and anti‐atherosclerotic. Unfortunately, the vast majority of those data derive from in vitro studies, whereas a limited number of in vivo experiments support the aforementioned effects. In addition to studies with mechanistic implications, very few clinical trials provide preliminary evidence of saffron potentiality to alleviate depression and increase cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.

Summary

The history and structural features of saffron constituents are given in the first part of the review, followed by a comprehensive and critical presentation of the published preclinical and clinical studies and review papers on the pharmacology and possible therapeutic uses of saffron and its main active components crocin and safranal.

Keywords

biological/pharmacological evaluation; crocin; drugs from natural sources; natural products; saffron; safranal

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1111/jphp.12456

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26272123

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jphp.12456

pdf: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/jphp.12456

 Sarris J¹, Panossian A, Schweitzer I, Stough C, Scholey A.

1-The University of Melbourne, Department of Psychiatry, Australia. jsarris@unimelb.edu.au

Abstract

Research in the area of herbal psychopharmacology has increased markedly over the past decades. To date however, a comprehensive review of herbal antidepressant, anxiolytic and hypnotic psychopharmacology and applications in depression, anxiety and insomnia has been absent. A search of MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library databases was conducted (up to February 21st 2011) on commonly used psychotropic herbal medicines. A review of the literature was conducted to ascertain mechanisms of action of these botanicals, in addition to a systematic review of controlled clinical trials for treatment of mood, anxiety and sleep disorders, which are common comorbid psychiatric disorders. Specific emphasis was given to emerging phytomedicines. Analysis of evidence levels was conducted, as were effect sizes (Cohen’s d) where data were available. Results provided evidence of a range of neurochemical, endocrinological, and epigenetic effects for 21 individual phytomedicines, which are detailed in this paper. Sixty six controlled studies were located involving eleven phytomedicines. Several of these provide a high level of evidence, such as Hypericum perforatum for major depression, and Piper methysticum for anxiety disorders. Several human clinical trials provide preliminary positive evidence of antidepressant effects (Echium amoenum, Crocus sativus, and Rhodiola rosea) and anxiolytic activity (Matricaria recutita, Ginkgo biloba, Passiflora incanata, E. amoenum, and Scutellaria lateriflora). Caution should however be taken when interpreting the results as many studies have not been replicated. Several herbal medicines with in vitro and in vivo evidence are currently unexplored in human studies, and along with use of emerging genetic technologies “herbomics”, are areas of potential future research.

Keywords

Herbal medicine; Antidepressant;Depression; Anxiolytic; Anxiety;Insomnia;Psychopharmacology;Herbomics; St John’s wort;Kava

DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2011.04.002

http://www.cdn.ueg.br/source/mestrado_ciencias_aplicadas_a_produtos_para_saude_184/conteudoN/3928/Herbal_medicine_review.pdf

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21601431

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Saffron%3A-a-natural-product-with-potential-Christodoulou-Kadoglou/664827e1d3e09c307dba48c4acbbf545f3d89e47