| Crocus sativus Linn. (Saffron) is valued worldwide for its potential use in the management
of various degenerative disorders, including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs),
diabetes, cancer, metabolic syndrome (MetS), neurodegenerative diseases, immune
disorders, and sexual dysfunction. Previous reports, based on clinical trials, suggest
that crocetin, crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal are the main bioactive components of
saffron with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects. In this comprehensive
narrative review, we studied the recent clinical trials, investigating the
medicinal applications of saffron and/or its components. The present results can provide
important insights into the potential of saffron in preventing and treating different
disorders, with a special focus on the underlying cellular and molecular
mechanisms. However, further high-quality studies are needed to firmly establish the
clinical efficacy of saffron in treating some degenerative diseases. |