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Phytotherapic use of the Crocus sativus L. (Saffron) and its potential applications: A brief overview
Author(s) -
Leone Sheila,
Recinella Lucia,
Chiavaroli Annalisa,
Orlando Giustino,
Ferrante Claudio,
Leporini Lidia,
Brunetti Luigi,
Menghini Luigi
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
phytotherapy research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.019
H-Index - 129
eISSN - 1099-1573
pISSN - 0951-418X
DOI - 10.1002/ptr.6181
Subject(s) - safranal , crocus sativus , crocin , crocetin , medicine , traditional medicine , crocus , pharmacology
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.