Active constituents of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and their prospects in treating neurodegenerative diseases (Review)

Crocus sativus L. (saffron) is widely used as a traditional spice for flavoring, coloring and medicinal purposes. As a traditional Chinese herb, saffron promotes blood circulation, removes blood stasis, cools and detoxifies the blood, relieves depression and calms the mind. According to modern pharmacological studies, the active constituents of saffron, including crocetin, safranal and crocus aldehyde, exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, mitochondrial function-improving and antidepressant effects. Thus, saffron has the potential to treat neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) associated with oxidative stress, inflammation and impaired mitochondrial function, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis and cerebral ischemia. The present article provides a review of the pharmacological effects of saffron and its constituents in terms of neuroprotective effects, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and the improvement of mitochondrial dysfunction, as well as their clinical application in treating NDs.

Automated summary

Crocus sativus L. (saffron) is commonly used as a traditional spice and Chinese herb with various pharmacological effects. Its active constituents, including crocetin, safranal, and crocus aldehyde, have shown antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidepressant effects. Saffron has potential in treating neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and impaired mitochondrial function. This article reviews the neuroprotective effects of saffron, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, improvement of mitochondrial dysfunction, and its clinical application in treating NDs.