saffron ethanolic extract

Saffron ethanolic extract is a standardized preparation derived from the stigmas of Crocus sativus L., extracted in ethanol. It contains a complex mixture of bioactive compounds, including crocins, picrocrocin, safranal, flavonoids (notably kaempferol and quercetin derivatives), monoterpenes, and various carotenoids and polyphenols[2][5][8]. Notably, crocins are the main apolar active molecules, while picrocrocin and kaempferol derivatives are the major polar components[8]. The extract has demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-atherosclerotic, neuroprotective, antidepressant, anticonvulsant, and anxiolytic effects in preclinical and limited clinical studies[1][3][4][6][7]. Effects are thought to occur via modulation of neurotransmitter systems (serotonergic, dopaminergic, noradrenergic), antioxidant enzyme activity (SOD, GPx), and possible GABA-mimetic activity, with evidence supporting the attenuation of oxidative stress and improvement of cognitive impairment and emotional symptoms[1][3][6]. Main indications under investigation include neurodegenerative disorders (such as mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s disease, and multiple sclerosis models), atherosclerosis, depression, and anxiety, but the extract is not an approved pharmaceutical and is primarily employed as a dietary supplement or experimental therapeutic[4][6][7].

Other names

saffron extractCrocus sativus ethanolic extractsaffron alcohol extract