Comparison of Crocus sativus L. and imipramine in the treatment of mild to moderate depression: a pilot double-blind randomized trial [ISRCTN45683816]:https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15341662/
Saffron and Sleep Quality: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
ZitatIt seems that saffron has a beneficial influence on duration and quality of sleep. Saffron, crocin, and safranal induce hypnotic effects by increasing the duration of sleep. Research conducted so far provides initial support and safety for use of saffron to improve sleep quality.
ZitatCrocin is a yellow carotenoid pigment found in saffron, a popular, pricey spice that’s commonly used in Indian and Spanish cuisine.
Human and animal studies have shown that crocin offers many health benefits, including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, antidepressant, and antidiabetes effects. It may also protect against age-related cognitive decline (28, 29).
Test-tube and rodent studies demonstrate that crocin helps prevent age-related nerve damage by inhibiting the production of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are compounds that contribute to the aging process (30, 31).
Crocin has also been shown to help prevent aging in human skin cells by reducing inflammation and protecting against cellular damage induced by UV light (32, 33).
Since saffron is the world’s most expensive spice, it may be more cost-effective to take a concentrated saffron supplement.
Kommentar: Anscheinend hauptsächlich in Safran-Extrakt vorhanden und nicht/kaum isoliert erhältlich.
Crocin as a vision supplement
ZitatClinical evidence suggests that crocin improves outcomes in patients with retinal degenerations, retinal dystrophies, and glaucoma. Overall, crocin can be suggested as a potential vision supplement in healthy populations and patients with eye diseases. However, more clinical studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up durations are needed to confirm the current evidence.
Saffron as a Promising Therapy for Inflammatory Bowel Disease
ZitatData from clinical trials were assessed to determine the efficacy and safety of using saffron to counter inflammation in multiple diseases. Studies have shown that saffron may protect against inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) through several mechanisms by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6), reducing oxidative stress through antioxidant effects, enhancing mucosal barrier function by upregulating tight junction proteins, and modulating the gut microbiota composition to promote beneficial bacteria while suppressing pathogenic ones; these combined actions contribute to its therapeutic potential in managing and alleviating the symptoms of IBD. This will enable future research endeavors and expedite the translation of saffron-based interventions into clinical practice as a valuable adjunctive therapy or a potential alternative to conventional treatments, thereby enhancing the quality of life for individuals suffering from inflammatory diseases including IBD.
Saffron extract as an emerging novel therapeutic option in reproduction and sexual health: recent advances and future prospectives
ZitatIn terms of reproductive health, saffron’s impact on male reproductive health shows conflicting findings on semen parameters. However, in female reproductive health, saffron appears promising for managing dysmenorrhoea, reducing menstrual pain, regulating hormonal fluctuations, and improving overall menstrual health. Safety considerations highlight the importance of adhering to specified dosages, as excessive intake may lead to toxicity. Yet, within the therapeutic range, saffron is considered safe, relieving symptoms without serious side effects, according to clinical research.