Medicinal Properties of Saffron Domina Petric, MD ABSTRACT Based on the so far published literature saffron capsules can be used as a safe over-the-counter supplement in patients with mild-to-moderate symptoms of depression. It has also been reported that saffron has anxiolytic, anticonvulsant and neuroprotective properties, but more clinical research is mandatory to determine the exact clinical efficacy and precise clinical indications. Saffron supplements might also be considered as complementary therapy for neuropathic pain. INTRODUCTION Saffron (Crocus sativus) is a perennial herb, mainly grown in Mediterranean Europe, western Asia, and Kashmir region of India. The dried stigmas of the C. sativus have been used as a spice, flavoring agent, and dyeing agent for 1000 years. Saffron is exploited for its medicinal properties in different traditional medicines such as an aphrodisiac, antispasmodic, against stomach ailments, and lumbar pain. Systematic investigations of saffron stigma have revealed that it mainly constitutes carotenoids (crocins and crocetins) and monoterpenes (picrocrocin and safranal) that contribute to its major pharmacological effects. Recent studies suggested that various chemical constituents of saffron have diverse medicinal properties including antineuropathic pain effects, anticonvulsant, and antidepressant. Saffron also serves as an antimicrobial, antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic, antiinflammatory, and therapeutic effect against cardiovascular diseases. Various in vitro and in vivo analysis have provided evidence for the use of saffron/or crocin derivative of saffron as a chemopreventive agent. Studies have provided evidence that saffron modulates the expression of various molecules such as dopamine, TNF-α, Wnt/β-catenin pathways, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and several other antioxidant molecules 1 . NEUROPSYCHIATRIC EFFECTS Results of a placebo controlled randomized clinical trial of Crocus sativus L. (saffron) on depression and food craving among overweight women with mild to moderate depression showed that saffron capsules were not effective in reducing food craving, but as a safe over-the- counter supplement, it may help reduce the symptoms of depression in patients who experience mild or moderate depression and are overweight 2 . There are more clinical trials conducted, 1