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Shafiee A, Jafarabady K, Seighali N, Mohammadi I, Rajai Firouz Abadi S, Abhari FS, Bakhtiyari M. Effect of Saffron Versus Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) in Treatment of Depression and Anxiety: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutr Rev 2024:nuae076. [PMID: 38913392 DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuae076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Saffron, a natural remedy with potential antidepressant and anxiolytic properties, has gained attention as a potential therapeutic option. OBJECTIVE This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of saffron versus selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in treating depression and anxiety. DATA SOURCE Electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane database, were searched from inception to April 31, 2023. DATA EXTRACTION Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing saffron intervention with SSRIs in adults with depression or anxiety were included. DATA ANALYSIS Random-effects meta-analysis using standardized mean differences (SMDs) and risk ratio (RRs) with their 95% CIs calculated continuous and binary outcomes, respectively. Meta-analysis of 8 studies assessing depression outcomes revealed a nonsignificant difference between saffron and SSRIs in reducing depressive symptoms (SMD = 0.10l 95% CI: -0.09 to 0.29). Four studies reporting anxiety outcomes showed a nonsignificant difference between saffron and SSRIs in reducing anxiety symptoms (SMD = 0.04; 95% CI: -0.22 to 0.29). With regard to safety, participants receiving saffron had fewer adverse events than the SSRI group (risk difference: -0.06; 95% CI: -0.09, -0.04; I2: 0%). CONCLUSION Saffron could be a potential SSRI alternative to reduce depressive and anxiety symptoms with fewer adverse events. Further research with larger sample sizes and in diverse populations is warranted to validate these findings and explore potential moderators of treatment response. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO registration no. CRD42023443236.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arman Shafiee
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Science, Karaj, Iran
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Kyana Jafarabady
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Science, Karaj, Iran
| | - Niloofar Seighali
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Science, Karaj, Iran
| | - Ida Mohammadi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahryar Rajai Firouz Abadi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Faeze Soltani Abhari
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Mahmood Bakhtiyari
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
- Department of Community Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, 3149779453, Iran
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Han S, Cao Y, Wu X, Xu J, Nie Z, Qiu Y. New horizons for the study of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and its active ingredients in the management of neurological and psychiatric disorders: A systematic review of clinical evidence and mechanisms. Phytother Res 2024; 38:2276-2302. [PMID: 38424688 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Saffron (Crocus sativus), as an herbal medicine, has been extensively investigated for treating neurological and psychiatric disorders. This systematic review aimed to assess the overall effects of saffron on cognition, depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified by searching PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Clinical Trials databases up to June 2023 according to search terms and inclusion criteria. The participants were either healthy or suffering from some diseases, including neurological and psychiatric disorders, and consumed saffron or its extracts as an intervention. The risk of bias was assessed according to the Cochrane guidelines, and the PRISMA statement was followed. The meta-analysis was performed using RevMan and STATA software. A random-effects or fixed-effects model was used to calculate the pooled effect sizes. Forty-six RCTs were enrolled, and the duration of these trials ranged from 4 to 48 weeks with saffron or its extracts, both alone or in combination with conventional drugs. Saffron was more effective than placebo in improving cognition, depression with an overall effect size of -4.26 (95% CI: -5.76, -2.77), anxiety of -3.75 (95% CI: -5.83, -1.67), and sleep disorders of -1.91 (95% CI: -2.88, -0.93). Saffron was non-inferior to conventional drugs for treating cognitive disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and OCD, and it exhibited good tolerance with few side effects. Saffron may exert protective roles for neurological and psychiatric disorders and represents a relatively favorable and safe treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shufen Han
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yifei Cao
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Xingrong Wu
- Male Department of General Psychiatry, Shanxi Provincial Mental Health Center and Taiyuan Psychiatric Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaoyang Xu
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Zizheng Nie
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Qiu
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
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Ebrahimi N, Javadinia SA, Salek R, Fanipakdel A, Sepahi S, Dehghani M, Valizadeh N, Mohajeri SA. Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial of Concurrent Use of Crocin During Chemoradiation for Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cancer Invest 2024; 42:155-164. [PMID: 38385429 DOI: 10.1080/07357907.2024.2319754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Crocin is the major active carotenoid of saffron (Crocus sativus L.). Its pluripotent effects have led to a growing body of literature investigating its antitumor properties as well as its diverse potentials for mood stabilization, normal tissue protection, and inflammation reduction; However, there is a gap in clinical trials testing this substance in cancer patients. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, patients with newly diagnosed esophageal squamous cell carcinoma were randomly assigned to either 30 mg/day of crocin or placebo, prescribed during the neoadjuvant chemo-radiotherapy. The primary endpoints were pathological response and toxicity, and secondary endpoints were depression and anxiety levels and survival analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nima Ebrahimi
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Alireza Javadinia
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
| | - Roham Salek
- Cancer Research Centre, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Azar Fanipakdel
- Cancer Research Centre, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Samaneh Sepahi
- Food and Beverages Safety Research Center, Urmia University of Medical sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mansoureh Dehghani
- Cancer Research Centre, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Niloufar Valizadeh
- Department of Radiology, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Seyed Ahmad Mohajeri
- Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Mahdavi M, Ghaderi A, Hazegh P, Baseri MHK, Vahed N, Nazemi S, Aghajani A, Ghoreishi FS, Sadeghi-Gandomani H, Kashani AT. Oral supplementation with crocin (a constituent of saffron) in subjects with cigarette smoking: a clinical trial. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-02970-7. [PMID: 38294505 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-02970-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Smoking is one of the main causes of death in the world. Cigarette use is related with various components of metabolic syndrome (e.g., insulin resistance, raised blood pressure, dyslipidemia, oxidative stress, inflammation state) and psychiatric disorders. This study was conducted to determine the effect of crocin (Cro) supplementation on nicotine dependence, anxiety, depression, and metabolic indices in smokers. A total of 50 smokers were selected and randomly categorized into two groups (crocin and placebo). The intervention group received crocin (30 mg per day; n = 25) and placebo (containing Avicel; n = 25) once a day. The primary (nicotine dependence, depression, and anxiety inventory) and secondary (metabolic indices) outcomes were assessed at the start of the intervention and after the 3 months. Multiple linear regression models were used to assess the treatment effects on the outcomes adjusting for confounding variables. The primary outcome results such as nicotine dependence, depression, and anxiety inventory did not have a significant difference among the intervention groups (P > 0.05). Also in the secondary outcomes, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), insulin, and homeostasis model of assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) levels did indicate a significant difference by Cro intervention (β - 3.27 mg/dL; 95% CI, - 5.23, - 1.31; P = 0.002; β - 0.76 μIU/mL; 95% CI, - 1.38, - 0.15; P = 0.01; β - 0.18; 95% CI, - 0.29, - 0.07; P = 0.002), respectively. There were also significant reductions in serum levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (β - 0.72 mg/L; 95% CI, - 1.37, - 0.07; P = 0.03), compared with the placebo. Cro intake may have favorable effects on the level of FPG, insulin, HOMA-IR, and hs-CRP in smokers. However, due to the small sample size and limited scientific reports on smokers, further studies are necessary. ClinicalTrial.gov Identifier: IRCT20170420033551N11.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojtaba Mahdavi
- Department of Addiction Studies, School of Medical, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Amir Ghaderi
- Department of Addiction Studies, School of Medical, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
- Clinical Research Development Unit-Matini, Kargarnejad Hospital, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
| | - Pooya Hazegh
- Department of Psychiatry, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hassan Karimipour Baseri
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Neda Vahed
- Research Center for Addiction and Risky Behaviors (ReCARB), Psychosocial Health Research Institute, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shekoofeh Nazemi
- Student Research Committee, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Ali Aghajani
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | | | - Hamidreza Sadeghi-Gandomani
- Department of Nursing, Borujen Faculty of Nursing, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Amene Taghdisi Kashani
- Student Research Committee, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
- Department of Pediatric, Faculty of Dentistry, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
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Chrastina M, Dráfi F, Pružinská K, Poništ S, Kamga KS, Khademnematolahi S, Bilka F, Novák P, Pašková Ľ, Bauerová K. Crocus sativus L. Extract (Saffron) Effectively Reduces Arthritic and Inflammatory Parameters in Monotherapy and in Combination with Methotrexate in Adjuvant Arthritis. Nutrients 2023; 15:4108. [PMID: 37836391 PMCID: PMC10574733 DOI: 10.3390/nu15194108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune disease, is characterized by inflammation that affects not only the liver but also other organs and the musculoskeletal system. The standard therapy for RA is methotrexate (MTX), which has safety limitations. The extract from Crocus sativus L. (saffron-SF) is also known for its anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, we decided to investigate the potential benefit of SF in monotherapy via two doses (SF1-25 mg/kg of b.w.; SF2-50 mg/kg of b.w.) and in combination with MTX (0.3 mg/kg of b.w., twice a week) using adjuvant arthritis in rats. To evaluate these therapeutic settings, we used biometric, immunological, and biochemical parameters, as well as the relative gene expression of the mRNA in the liver. Our results showed a statistically significant increase in the experimental animals' body weight and the arthritic score (AS) on day 14 for monotherapy with SF1 and SF2. The change of hind paw volume (CHPV) was significant only for SF2 monotherapy on the 14th day of the experiment. A combination of SF1 and SF2 with MTX significantly modulated all the biometric parameters during the experimental period. Additionally, AS and CHPV improved considerably compared to MTX monotherapy on day 21. Furthermore, all monotherapies and combination therapies were significant for the biochemical parameter γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT) in the joint. GGT activity in the spleen was less pronounced; only MTX in combination with SF1 significantly modified this parameter. The higher dose of SF monotherapy (SF2) was similarly significant with respect to immunological parameters, such as plasmatic IL-17A, IL-1β, and MMP-9 on day 21. The combination of both doses of SF with MTX significantly improved these immunological parameters, except for C-reactive protein (CRP), which was influenced only by the higher dose of SF2 in combination with MTX in plasma at the end of the experiment. A different effect was found for the relative expression of CD36 mRNA, where only SF1 significantly decreased gene expression in the liver. However, the relative gene mRNA expression of IL-1β in the liver was significantly reduced by the SF monotherapies and the combination of both SF doses with MTX. Our findings showed SF's partial antiarthritic and anti-inflammatory potential in monotherapy, but the effect was stronger in combination with MTX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Chrastina
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine SAS, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia; (M.C.); (K.P.); (S.P.); (K.S.K.); (S.K.)
- Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Malá Hora 10701/4A, 036 01 Martin, Slovakia
| | - František Dráfi
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine SAS, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia; (M.C.); (K.P.); (S.P.); (K.S.K.); (S.K.)
| | - Katarína Pružinská
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine SAS, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia; (M.C.); (K.P.); (S.P.); (K.S.K.); (S.K.)
- Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Malá Hora 10701/4A, 036 01 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Silvester Poništ
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine SAS, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia; (M.C.); (K.P.); (S.P.); (K.S.K.); (S.K.)
| | - Kevine Silihe Kamga
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine SAS, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia; (M.C.); (K.P.); (S.P.); (K.S.K.); (S.K.)
- Faculty of Science, University of Yaoundé 1, Yaoundé P.O. Box 812, Cameroon
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé 1, Yaoundé P.O. Box 1364, Cameroon
| | - Sasan Khademnematolahi
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine SAS, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia; (M.C.); (K.P.); (S.P.); (K.S.K.); (S.K.)
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava, Ilkovičova 6, 842 15 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - František Bilka
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University in Bratislava, Odbojárov 10, 832 32 Bratislava, Slovakia; (F.B.); (P.N.); (Ľ.P.)
| | - Peter Novák
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University in Bratislava, Odbojárov 10, 832 32 Bratislava, Slovakia; (F.B.); (P.N.); (Ľ.P.)
| | - Ľudmila Pašková
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University in Bratislava, Odbojárov 10, 832 32 Bratislava, Slovakia; (F.B.); (P.N.); (Ľ.P.)
| | - Katarína Bauerová
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine SAS, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia; (M.C.); (K.P.); (S.P.); (K.S.K.); (S.K.)
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Ruggieri F, Maggi MA, Rossi M, Consonni R. Comprehensive Extraction and Chemical Characterization of Bioactive Compounds in Tepals of Crocus sativus L. Molecules 2023; 28:5976. [PMID: 37630227 PMCID: PMC10458886 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28165976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Crocus sativus L. is largely cultivated because it is the source of saffron, a well-appreciated and valued spice, not only for its culinary use but also because of its significant biological activities. Stigmas are the main product obtained from flowers, but in addition, tepals, largely considered a waste product, represent a big source of flavonoids and anthocyanins. This study aimed to delve into the phytochemical composition of saffron tepals and investigate whether the composition was influenced by the extraction technique while investigating the main analytical techniques most suitable for the characterization of tepal extracts. The research focuses on flavonoids, a class of secondary metabolites, and their health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. Flavonoids occur as aglycones and glycosides and are classified into various classes, such as flavones, flavonols, and flavanones. The most abundant flavonoids in tepals are kaempferol glycosides, followed by quercetin and isorhamnetin glycosides. Overall, this review provides valuable insights into the potential uses of tepals as a source of bioactive compounds and their applications in various fields, promoting a circular and sustainable economy in saffron cultivation and processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Ruggieri
- Dipartimento di Scienze Fisiche e Chimiche, Università degli Studi dell’Aquila, Via Vetoio, Coppito, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (F.R.); (M.A.M.)
| | - Maria Anna Maggi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Fisiche e Chimiche, Università degli Studi dell’Aquila, Via Vetoio, Coppito, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (F.R.); (M.A.M.)
| | - Michela Rossi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Fisiche e Chimiche, Università degli Studi dell’Aquila, Via Vetoio, Coppito, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (F.R.); (M.A.M.)
| | - Roberto Consonni
- National Research Council, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Technologies “G. Natta” (SCITEC), Via Corti 12, 20133 Milan, Italy
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Saxena K, Kurian S, Kumar R, Arnold LE, Simkin DR. Mood Disorders in Youth: Complementary and Integrative Medicine. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am 2023; 32:367-394. [PMID: 37147043 DOI: 10.1016/j.chc.2022.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, probiotics, vitamin C, vitamin D, folic acid and L-methyl folate, broad-spectrum micronutrients, N-acetylcysteine, physical activity, herbs, bright light therapy, melatonin, saffron, meditation, school-based interventions, and transcranial photobiomodulation are reviewed, with a focus on their use for treating mood disorders in children and adolescents. For each treatment, all published randomized controlled trials are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirti Saxena
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Texas Children's Hospital, 8080 North Stadium Drive, Houston, TX 77054, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Moursund Street, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Sherin Kurian
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Texas Children's Hospital, 8080 North Stadium Drive, Houston, TX 77054, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Moursund Street, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Reena Kumar
- Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine, University of Arizona, 655 N Alvernon Way, Suite 120, Tuscon, AZ 85711, USA
| | - L Eugene Arnold
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, 395E McCampbell Hall, 1581 Dodd Drive, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Deborah R Simkin
- Department of Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, 8955 Highway 98 West, Suite 204, Miramar Beach, FL 32550, USA
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Matraszek-Gawron R, Chwil M, Terlecki K, Skoczylas MM. Current Knowledge of the Antidepressant Activity of Chemical Compounds from Crocus sativus L. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 16:58. [PMID: 36678554 PMCID: PMC9860663 DOI: 10.3390/ph16010058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychotropic effect of Crocus sativus L. (family Iridaceae) biologically active chemical compounds are quite well documented and they can therefore be used in addition to the conventional pharmacological treatment of depression. This systematic review on antidepressant compounds in saffron crocus and their mechanisms of action and side effects is based on publications released between 1995−2022 and data indexed in 15 databases under the following search terms: antidepressant effect, central nervous system, Crocus sativus, cognitive impairement, crocin, crocetin, depression, dopamine, dopaminergic and serotonergic systems, picrocrocin, phytotherapy, neurotransmitters, safranal, saffron, serotonin, and biologically active compounds. The comparative analysis of the publications was based on 414 original research papers. The investigated literature indicates the effectiveness and safety of aqueous and alcoholic extracts and biologically active chemical compounds (alkaloids, anthocyanins, carotenoids, flavonoid, phenolic, saponins, and terpenoids) isolated from various organs (corms, leaves, flower petal, and stigmas) in adjuvant treatment of depression and anxiety. Monoamine reuptake inhibition, N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonism, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-α agonism are the main proposed mechanism of the antidepressant action. The antidepressant and neuroprotective effect of extract components is associated with their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. The mechanism of their action, interactions with conventional drugs and other herbal preparations and the safety of use are not fully understood; therefore, further detailed research in this field is necessary. The presented results regarding the application of C. sativus in phytotherapy are promising in terms of the use of herbal preparations to support the treatment of depression. This is particularly important given the steady increase in the incidence of this disease worldwide and social effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Matraszek-Gawron
- Department of Botany and Plant Physiology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 15 Street, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
| | - Mirosława Chwil
- Department of Botany and Plant Physiology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 15 Street, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
| | - Karol Terlecki
- Department of Vascular Surgery and Angiology, Medical University of Lublin, Racławickie 1 Street, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Michał Marian Skoczylas
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Unii Lubelskiej 1 Street, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland
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Interactions of Apigenin and Safranal with the 5HT1A and 5HT2A Receptors and Behavioral Effects in Depression and Anxiety: A Molecular Docking, Lipid-Mediated Molecular Dynamics, and In Vivo Analysis. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27248658. [PMID: 36557792 PMCID: PMC9783496 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27248658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current study utilizes in silico molecular docking/molecular dynamics to evaluate the binding affinity of apigenin and safranal with 5HT1AR/5HT2AR, followed by assessment of in vivo effects of these compounds on depressive and anxious behavior. METHODS The docking between apigenin and safranal and the 5HT1A and 5HT2A receptors was performed utilizing AutoDock Vina software, while MD and protein-lipid molecular dynamics simulations were executed by AMBER16 software. For in vivo analysis, healthy control (HC), disease control (DC), fluoxetine-, and apigenin-safranal-treated rats were tested for changes in depression and anxiety using the forced swim test (FST) and the elevated plus-maze test (EPMT), respectively. RESULTS The binding affinity estimations identified the superior interacting capacity of apigenin over safranal for 5HT1A/5HT2A receptors over 200 ns MD simulations. Both compounds exhibit oral bioavailability and absorbance. In the rodent model, there was a significant increase in the overall mobility time in the FST, while in the EPMT, there was a decrease in latency and an increase in the number of entries for the treated and HC rats compared with the DC rats, suggesting a reduction in depressive/anxiety symptoms after treatment. CONCLUSIONS Our analyses suggest apigenin and safranal as prospective medication options to treat depression and anxiety.
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Rasi Marzabadi L, Fazljou SMB, Araj-Khodaei M, Sadigh-Eteghad S, Naseri A, Talebi M. Saffron reduces some inflammation and oxidative stress markers in donepezil-treated mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's Disease patients: A randomized double-blind placebo-control trial. J Herb Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hermed.2022.100574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Lian J, Zhong Y, Li H, Yang S, Wang J, Li X, Zhou X, Chen G. Effects of saffron supplementation on improving sleep quality: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Sleep Med 2022; 92:24-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2022.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Varzaghani V, Sharifi M, Hajiaghaee R, Bagheri S, Momtaz S, Tarassoli Z, Razmi A. Propolis add‐on therapy alleviates depressive symptoms; A randomized placebo‐controlled clinical trial. Phytother Res 2022; 36:1258-1267. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vahdad Varzaghani
- Medicinal Plants Research Center Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR Karaj Iran
| | - Masoomeh Sharifi
- Physiology Research Center Iran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Reza Hajiaghaee
- Medicinal Plants Research Center Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR Karaj Iran
| | - Sara Bagheri
- Medicinal Plants Research Center Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR Karaj Iran
| | - Saeideh Momtaz
- Medicinal Plants Research Center Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR Karaj Iran
| | - Zahra Tarassoli
- Medicinal Plants Research Center Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR Karaj Iran
| | - Ali Razmi
- Medicinal Plants Research Center Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR Karaj Iran
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Jomehpour H, Aghayan S, Khosravi A, Afzaljavan F. The Effect of Krocina™ on Decreasing Substance User Withdrawal Syndrome, Craving, Depression and Stress: A Double-Blind Randomized Parallel Clinical Trial. Subst Use Misuse 2022; 57:613-620. [PMID: 35068330 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2022.2026968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Due to the association between substance use abstinence with some psychological syndromes, the use of herbal medicines such as Crocus sativus L. have been considered as a proper approach to controlling withdrawal syndrome. The present study aimed to identify the effect of Krocina™ in reducing withdrawal symptoms, craving, depression, stress, anxiety and durability of treatment in the detoxification period and abstinence phase. METHODS In a double-blind randomized parallel clinical trial, 72 opioid users passing the detoxification period who were referred to the Soroush Center during 2020, randomly categorized into the two groups. Motivational interviewing sessions and 15 mg of Krocina™ twice a day were provided for six weeks for the cases. The placebo group received pills with the same coating and motivational interviewing. Withdrawal symptoms, craving, depression, stress and anxiety were assessed at the start of the study and then weekly using the Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale, Obsessive-Compulsive Drug Use Scale, and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21, respectively. SPSS-v16 was used for statistical analyses. RESULTS Drug withdrawal symptoms and craving did not indicate a significant difference by Krocina™ intervention during the time (p > 0.05). Furthermore, depression, stress and anxiety were statistically similar between Krocina™ and placebo groups (p > 0.05). Moreover, we found similar findings between the two groups when analyzing only patients with negative urinary test (F = 0.03;p = 0.86). CONCLUSION Our finding rejected the effectiveness of 30 mg/day of Krocina™ for six weeks as an effective substance for decreasing withdrawal symptoms, craving, depression, anxiety and stress at the detoxification period and abstinence phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Jomehpour
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Shahrokh Aghayan
- Sexual Health and Fertility Research center, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Ahmad Khosravi
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran; Ophthalmic Epidemiology Research Centre, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Fahimeh Afzaljavan
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Medical Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Effect of Crocus sativus (Saffron) Intake on Top of Standard Treatment, on Disease Outcomes and Comorbidities in Patients with Rheumatic Diseases: Synthesis without Meta-Analysis (SWiM) and Level of Adherence to the CONSORT Statement for Randomized Controlled Trials Delivering Herbal Medicine Interventions. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13124274. [PMID: 34959826 PMCID: PMC8706139 DOI: 10.3390/nu13124274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatic diseases (RDs) are often complicated by chronic symptoms and frequent side-effects associated with their treatment. Saffron, a spice derived from the Crocus sativus L. flower, is a popular complementary and alternative medicine among patients with RDs. The present systematic review aimed to summarize the available evidence regarding the efficacy of supplementation with saffron on disease outcomes and comorbidities in patients with RD diagnoses. PubMed, CENTRAL, clinicaltrials.gov and the grey literature were searched until October 2021, and relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were screened for eligibility using Rayyan. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane’s Risk of Bias-2.0 (RoB) tool. A synthesis without meta-analysis (SWiM) was performed by vote counting and an effect direction plot was created. Out of 125 reports, seven fulfilled the eligibility criteria belonging to five RCTs and were included in the SWiM. The RCTs involved patients with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia, and evaluated outcomes related to pain, disease activity, depression, immune response, inflammation, oxidative stress, health, fatigue and functional ability. The majority of trials demonstrated some concerns regarding overall bias. Moreover, the majority of trialists failed to adhere to the formula elaborations suggested by the CONSORT statement for RCTs incorporating herbal medicine interventions. Standardization of herbal medicine confirms its identity, purity and quality; however, the majority of trials failed to adhere to these guidelines. Due to the great heterogeneity and the lack of important information regarding the standardization and content of herbal interventions, it appears that the evidence is not enough to secure a direction of effect for any of the examined outcomes.
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Majidi N, Kosari Monfared M, Mazaheri-Eftekhar F, Movahedi A, Karandish M. The effects of saffron petals and damask rose petals on biochemical and inflammatory measurements. JOURNAL OF COMPLEMENTARY & INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 19:251-259. [PMID: 34624188 DOI: 10.1515/jcim-2021-0420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Diabetes is a chronic disease caused by high blood sugar greatly affected by diet. The chemical medicines applied to treat diabetes usually have side effects. This study aimed to investigate the effect of saffron petals, damask rose petals, and saffron-damask rose petal herbal teas on weight loss, fasting blood sugar, lipid profile, and the inflammatory factors of diabetic rats. METHODS In this study, 40 male Sprague Dawley rats with an average age of four weeks received a high-calorie, high-fat, high-sugar diet for nine weeks. The rats were then randomly assigned to five groups, including normal, control, saffron petal, damask rose petal, and saffron plus damask rose petal groups. For nine weeks, 3 mL of the herbal tea was administered to the intervention groups daily through oral gavage. The levels of FBS, lipid profile, Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), the high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1C), and glucose tolerance test (GTT) were measured following the intervention. RESULTS Saffron petals reduced weight gain, Triglyceride (TG), and HbA1c and increased hs-CRP and IGF-1 (all p < 0.05). The damask rose petal reduced weight gain, FBS, hs-CRP, and HbA1c and increased the IGF-1 (all p < 0.05). Saffron plus damask-rose petals reduced the weight gain, TG, hs-CRP and HbA1c, and increase IGF-1 factor (all p < 0.05) compared to the control group. No significant effect was found on visceral fat, LDL-C, and HDL-C. Compared with the normal group, saffron petals and damask rose petals increased the FBS, HDL, and LDL levels. Damask rose and the combination of saffron petals and damask rose decreased IGF-1 compared with the normal group (all p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Saffron and damask rose petals could have beneficial effects on improving the status of biochemical markers. The simultaneous use of saffron and damask rose may counteract the adverse effects of saffron on inflammatory indices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazanin Majidi
- Department of Nutrition, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Ariyo Movahedi
- Department of Nutrition, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Karandish
- Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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16
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Lu C, Ke L, Li J, Zhao H, Lu T, Mentis AFA, Wang Y, Wang Z, Polissiou MG, Tang L, Tang H, Yang K. Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and health outcomes: a meta-research review of meta-analyses and an evidence mapping study. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 91:153699. [PMID: 34419735 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2021.153699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although a number of systematic reviews and meta-analyses of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) have been published, no study has comprehensively summarized the clinical evidence from meta-analyses, or assessed the reporting or methodological quality of these reviews. PURPOSE The present meta-research study was designed to fill the gaps in knowledge to inform future studies and allow enhanced clinical decision-making on saffron. METHODS The PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and CNKI databases were systematically searched from inception to April 3 rd, 2021, for meta-analyses of clinical trials that assessed the efficacy and safety of saffron. PRISMA 2009 and AMSTAR-2 were employed to assess the reporting and methodological quality of meta-analyses identified in the search, respectively. The present study was registered on PROSPERO with registration number CRD42020220274. RESULTS Nineteen eligible systematic reviews with meta-analyses published in English were identified from 235 records. These meta-analyses were published in 12 peer-reviewed journals from 2013 to 2021. The heterogeneous results indicated that saffron significantly reduced fasting blood glucose, waist circumference, diastolic blood pressure, concentrations of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and improved symptoms of depression, cognitive function and sexual dysfunction compared with controls (mainly placebos). Common side effects of saffron consumption included nausea, dry mouth, poor appetite, and headache, but no serious adverse reactions were reported. Primary analysis and sensitivity analysis confirmed that the reporting and methodological quality of reviews included in the study were highly correlated (p < 0.001). The quality of meta-analyses of saffron requires improvement by including a structured abstract, a prospective protocol and registration, explanation of the study designs within each study that is reviewed, the searches, risk of bias assessment, literature selection, and reporting of funding sources. CONCLUSION The available evidence indicates that saffron is a safe plant for administration as a medicine and can improve diverse clinical outcomes, but the scientific quality of the published systematic reviews needs to be improved. Moreover, the clinical effects of saffron need to be confirmed through high-quality randomized trials in multiple countries with large sample sizes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cuncun Lu
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China; Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China.
| | - Lixin Ke
- Hepatobiliary and pancreatic center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Jieyun Li
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Haitong Zhao
- Evidence-Based Social Science Center, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Tingting Lu
- Institute of Clinical Research and Evidence Based Medicine, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Alexios Fotios A Mentis
- University Research Institute of Maternal and Child Health and Precision Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens 10183, Greece
| | - Youyou Wang
- National Resource Center for Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Zhifei Wang
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Moschos G Polissiou
- Laboratory of Chemistry, Department of Science, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens 10183, Greece
| | - Liyao Tang
- Clinical College of Chinese Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Hao Tang
- Clinical College of Chinese Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Kehu Yang
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China; Evidence-Based Social Science Center, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China.
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Roshanravan N, Ghaffari S. The therapeutic potential of Crocus sativus Linn.: A comprehensive narrative review of clinical trials. Phytother Res 2021; 36:98-111. [PMID: 34532906 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Roshanravan
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Samad Ghaffari
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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The Effect of Saffron Supplementation on Blood Pressure in Adults: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13082736. [PMID: 34444896 PMCID: PMC8398601 DOI: 10.3390/nu13082736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The favorable influences of saffron supplementation on metabolic diseases have previously been shown. We aimed to assess the effects of saffron supplementation on blood pressure in adults. Methods: A systematic search was performed in Scopus, Embase, and the Cochrane library databases to find randomized controlled trials (RCTs) related to the effect of saffron supplementation on blood pressure in adults up to March 2021. The primary search yielded 182 publications, of which eight RCTs were eligible. Results: Our results showed that saffron supplementation resulted in a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure (weighted mean difference (WMD): −0.65 mmHg; 95% CI: −1.12 to −0.18, p = 0.006) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (WMD: −1.23 mmHg; 95% CI: −1.64 to −0.81, p < 0.001). Moreover, saffron supplementation reduced DBP in a non-linear fashion, based on duration (r = −2.45, p-nonlinearity = 0.008). Conclusions: Saffron supplementation may significantly improve both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in adults. It should be noted that the hypotensive effects of saffron supplementation were small and may not reach clinical importance.
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Salek R, Dehghani M, Mohajeri SA, Talaei A, Fanipakdel A, Javadinia SA. Amelioration of anxiety, depression, and chemotherapy related toxicity after crocin administration during chemotherapy of breast cancer: A double blind, randomized clinical trial. Phytother Res 2021; 35:5143-5153. [PMID: 34164855 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The effects of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) on mood disorders have already been established. More recently, its anti-neoplastic effects have provoked a great attention. This study aims to assess the effects of crocin administration during doxorubicin-based chemotherapy of breast cancer on anxiety, depression, and chemotherapy toxicity profile. Seventy-two patients with non-metastatic Her2/neu positive or triple negative breast cancer were enrolled and randomly assigned to receive either 30 mg/day of crocin or placebo during chemotherapy [2:2]. Beck's Depression and Anxiety Inventories were used at baseline and end of the trial. In addition, the ECOG Common Toxicity Criteria were applied to assess chemotherapy side-effects. After the intervention, the degree of anxiety and depression decreased significantly in the crocin group (p = .001 for both) and increased significantly in the placebo-group (p = .006 and p = .036, respectively). There were significantly higher grade II-IV leukopenia (47.2% vs. 19.4%, p = .012) in the crocin group, and grade II-IV hypersensitivity-reaction (30.6% vs. 5.6%, p = .006) in addition to neurological disorders (66.7% vs. 41.7%, p = .03) in the placebo-group. The results indicate that using crocin during chemotherapy in patients with breast cancer has ameliorated anxiety and depression. Moreover, leucopenia increased whereas hypersensitivity reaction and neurological disorders decreased in the crocin group. In addition, a trend toward survival improvement was observed, which is going to be investigated on longer follow up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roham Salek
- Cancer Research Centre, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mansoureh Dehghani
- Consultant Physician, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran
| | - Seyed Ahmad Mohajeri
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ali Talaei
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Azar Fanipakdel
- Cancer Research Centre, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Alireza Javadinia
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
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Trkulja V, Barić H. Current Research on Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) in the Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder: An Evidence-Based Review. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1305:375-427. [PMID: 33834410 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-33-6044-0_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) encompasses a wide range of different non-mainstream therapies that have been increasingly used for treatment or adjunctive treatment of various ailments with mood disorders and "depressive difficulties" being two of the commonly CAM (self-)medicated conditions. We focus specifically on clinically diagnosed (in line with the standard criteria) depressive disorders, primarily major depressive disorder (MDD), and overview evidence of efficacy/safety of a range of CAM modalities addressing exclusively randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews/meta-analyses of RCTs. The list of addressed CAM interventions is not exhaustive: due to space limitation, addressed are interventions with at least a few conducted RCTs in the specific clinical conditions. We try to provide numerical and meaningful data as much as it is possible and to (a) indicate situations in which the reported data/estimates might have been "too enthusiastic" and (b) warn about heterogeneity of results that, together with other possible limitations (various biases and imprecision), results in uncertainty about the effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Trkulja
- Department of Pharmacology, Zagreb University School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Hrvoje Barić
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
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Cerdá-Bernad D, Valero-Cases E, Pastor JJ, Frutos MJ. Saffron bioactives crocin, crocetin and safranal: effect on oxidative stress and mechanisms of action. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2020; 62:3232-3249. [PMID: 33356506 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2020.1864279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is used as a spice for its organoleptic characteristics related to its coloring and flavoring properties, and it has been also used in traditional medicine to treat various diseases. The main chemical components responsible for these properties are crocin, crocetin and safranal. These compounds have been shown to have a wide spectrum of biological activities, including several properties as antigenotoxic, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiatherosclerotic, antidiabetic, hypotensive, hypoglycemic, antihyperlipidemic, antidegenerative and antidepressant, among others. This review article highlights the antioxidant effects of these bioactive compounds to reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the mechanisms of action involved, since there are a multitude of diseases related to oxidative stress and the generation of free radicals (FRs). Recent studies have shown that the effects of crocin, crocetin and safranal against oxidative stress include the reduction in lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde [MDA] levels) and nitric oxide (NO) levels, and the increase in the levels of glutathione, antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase [GPx]) and thiol content. Therefore, due to the great antioxidant effects of these saffron compounds, it makes saffron a potential source of bioactive extracts for the development of bioactive ingredients, which can be used to produce functional foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Débora Cerdá-Bernad
- Research Group on Quality and Safety, Food Technology Department, Miguel Hernández University, Orihuela, Spain
| | - Estefanía Valero-Cases
- Research Group on Quality and Safety, Food Technology Department, Miguel Hernández University, Orihuela, Spain
| | | | - María José Frutos
- Research Group on Quality and Safety, Food Technology Department, Miguel Hernández University, Orihuela, Spain
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Abbaszadeh-Mashkani S, Hoque SS, Banafshe HR, Ghaderi A. The effect of crocin (the main active saffron constituent) on the cognitive functions, craving, and withdrawal syndrome in opioid patients under methadone maintenance treatment. Phytother Res 2020; 35:1486-1494. [PMID: 33078480 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Individuals under methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) programs are susceptible to several complications, including withdrawal syndrome, craving, and cognitive deficits. This study was designed to elevate the effect of crocin administration on withdrawal syndrome, craving, and cognitive function in subjects under MMT programs. It was a clinical trial that was conducted among 60 patients referred to Soltan Mirahmad Clinic for addict patients in Kashan, Iran. The patients were allocated to two groups including placebo and intervention groups. The intervention group received 30 mg/day crocin (n = 30) and placebo (n = 30) once a day, in 12 weeks. Withdrawal syndrome, craving, and cognitive function parameters were measured before and after the intervention in subjects under MMT programs. Compared with the placebo group, crocin resulted in a significant improvement in craving score (p = .03), and withdrawal symptoms score (p = .01) in the intervention group. In addition, crocin supplementation did not affect cognitive function parameters (e.g., TMT, FAS test, and DGSP score). Overall, crocin supplementation for 12 weeks to patients under MMT programs had beneficial effects on craving and withdrawal symptoms score, but did not affect the cognitive function parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samira Abbaszadeh-Mashkani
- Trauma Nursing Research Center, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | | | - Hamid Reza Banafshe
- Physiology Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Amir Ghaderi
- Department of Addiction studies, School of Medical, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.,Clinical Research Development Unit-Matini/Kargarnejad Hospital, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
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