Effects of Saffron Extract Supplementation on Mood, Well-Being, and Response to a Psychosocial Stressor in Healthy Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel Group, Clinical Trial

Plant extracts and omega-3 supplementation modulate hippocampal oxylipin profile in response to LPS-induced neuroinflammation

OBJECTIVE AND DESIGN

Neuroinflammation is a protective mechanism but can become harmful if chronic and/or unregulated, leading to neuronal damage and cognitive alterations. Limiting inflammation and promoting resolution could be achieved with nutrients such as grapes and blueberries polyphenols, saffron carotenoids, and omega-3, which have anti-inflammatory and proresolutive properties.

METHODS

This study explored the impact of 18-day supplementation with plant extracts (grape, blueberry and saffron), omega-3 or both (mix) on neuroinflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 250 µg/kg) in 149 mice at different time points post-LPS treatment (30 min, 2 h, 6 h). Inflammatory, oxidative and neuroprotective gene expression; oxylipin quantification; and fatty acid composition were analyzed at each time point. PCA analysis was performed with all these biomarkers.

RESULTS

Mix supplementation induced changes in the resolution of inflammation. In fact, the production of proinflammatory mediators in the hippocampus started earlier in the supplemented group than in the LPS group. Pro-resolving mediators were also found in higher quantities in supplemented mice. These changes were associated with increased hippocampal antioxidant status at 6 h post-LPS.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that such dietary interventions with plant extracts, and omega-3 could be beneficial in preventing neuroinflammation and, consequently, age-related cognitive decline. Further research is needed to explore the effects of these supplements on chronic inflammation in the context of aging.

Plant extracts and omega-3 improve short-term memory and modulate the microbiota-gut-brain axis in D-Galactose model mice

BACKGROUND

Aging, characterized by a slow and progressive alteration of cognitive functions, is associated with gut microbiota dysbiosis, low-grade chronic inflammation, as well as increased oxidative stress and neurofunctional alterations. Some nutrients, such as polyphenols, carotenoids, and omega-3, are good candidates to prevent age-related cognitive decline, due to their immunomodulatory, antioxidant and neuroprotective properties.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to demonstrate the preventive effect of a combination of plant extracts (PE) containing Memophenol™ (grapes and blueberries polyphenols) and a patented saffron extract (saffron carotenoids and safranal), and omega-3 (om-3) on cognitive function in a mice model of accelerated aging and to understand the biological mechanisms involved.

METHODS

We used an accelerated aging model by injecting 3-month-old male C57Bl6/J mice with D-galactose for 8 weeks, during which they were fed with a balanced control diet, supplemented or not with PE and/or om-3 (n=15-16/group). Short-term memory was evaluated by Y-maze test, following by analyses of hippocampal and intestinal RNA expressions, brain fatty acid and oxylipin amounts and gut microbiota composition (16S rRNA gene sequencing). Statistical analyses were performed (t-test, ANOVA and Pearson's correlation).

RESULTS

Our results showed that oral administration of PE, om-3, or both (mix) prevented hippocampus-dependent short-term memory deficits induced by D-galactose (p<0.05). This effect was accompanied by the modulation of gut microbiota, altered by the treatment. PE and the mix increased the expression of antioxidative and neurogenesis markers, such as catalase and DCX, in hippocampus (p<0.05 for both). Moreover, om-3 and the mix showed a higher omega-3 level (p<0.05) and EPA-derived 18-HEPE (p<0.001) in prefrontal cortex. These changes may contribute to the improvement in memory.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that the mix of PE and om-3 could be more efficient at attenuating age-related cognitive decline than individual supplementations because it targeted, in mice, the different pathways impaired with aging.

Neuroprotective Action of Selected Natural Drugs Against Neurological Diseases and Mental Disorders: Potential Use Against Radiation Damage

Exposure to radiation, ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, is a significant concern in modern society. The brain is the organ that is most sensitive to radiation exposure. This review describes how exposure to radiation can affect neurotransmitters in different brain regions, affecting brain function. This review covers neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and neuroinflammation due to changes in neurons in the central nervous system, and the effects thereon of medicinal plants such as Allium cepa, Allium sativum, Centella asiatica, Coriandrum sativum, and Crocus sativus plants, used for centuries in traditional medicine. These herbal medicines exert free radical scavenging, and antioxidant as well as anti-inflammatory properties which can be beneficial in managing neurological diseases. The present review compiles the neuroprotective effects of selected natural plants against neurological damage, as well as highlights the different mechanisms of action elicited to induce and produce beneficial effects. The current review describes recent studies on the pharmacological effects of neuroprotective herbs on various neurological and mental illnesses, and shows the way further studies can impact this field, including potential effects on radiation-induced damage.

Oral supplementation with crocin (a constituent of saffron) in subjects with cigarette smoking: a clinical trial

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.

Bacillus subtilis stimulates plant growth and production of bioactive components in saffron

The effects of B. subtilis on the morphology and physiology of saffron were investigated using two types of soils. Three different bacterial suspensions were applied at 14-day intervals to treat saffron. Morphological attributes were recorded, and the amounts of α-crocin and safranal in the stigma extracts were quantified. The longest stigma, petal, and leaf were observed in the treated groups with 105 and 108 cfu/ml. The highest weight of stigma per corm belonged to the treated groups with 102 cfu/ml in unsterile soil and 105 and 108 cfu/ml in sterile soil. Treatment with 102 and 108 cfu/ml caused a significant increase in safranal production in sterile and unsterile peat/perlite. While treatment with 105 and 108 cfu/ml in sterile peat/perlite and exposure to 102 cfu/ml in unsterile peat/perlite soil resulted in an increase in α-crocin. The data showed that B. subtlis triggers the morphological and physiological processes in saffron.

Safety evaluation of saffron extracts in early and established atherosclerotic New Zealand white rabbits

Previous research has shown that natural medications pose health risks, especially in subjects with comorbidities. This study aimed to evaluate the safety of saffron ethanolic extract (SEE) administration in early and established atherosclerotic rabbits. Rabbits were given a high-cholesterol diet (HCD) for 4 and 8 weeks to induce early and established atherosclerosis respectively, and then they were treated with 50 and 100 mg/kg/day SEE. The body weight of the animals was recorded. Blood samples were collected at baseline, pre-treatment, and post-treatment for hematological studies, lipid profiles, and biochemical profiles. Tissue specimens of the vital organs were subjected to histological examination. The above parameters were significantly altered post-intervention with 4 and 8 weeks of HCD. No significant differences in body weight were observed in all the groups post-treatment with 50 and 100mg/kg of SEE compared to pre-treatment. However, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, serum urea, and glucose significantly decreased post-treatment with 50 and 100mg/kg/day SEE compared to pre-treatment in early and established atherosclerosis groups. Hematological parameters that were affected post-intervention with HCD returned to their baseline values post-treatment with 50 and 100mg/kg/day SEE. There was a significant improvement in the vital organs post-treatment with 50 and 100mg/kg SEE. SEE can safely be administered without causing harmful effects on the hematological, biochemical profiles, and vital organs. Notably, SEE exerts hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic effects on atherosclerotic conditions. Further clinical trials are warranted to ensure the safety of saffron administration in patients with atherosclerosis-related diseases.

Necroptosis in Pneumonia: Therapeutic Strategies and Future Perspectives

Pneumonia remains a major global health challenge, necessitating the development of effective therapeutic approaches. Recently, necroptosis, a regulated form of cell death, has garnered attention in the fields of pharmacology and immunology for its role in the pathogenesis of pneumonia. Characterized by cell death and inflammatory responses, necroptosis is a key mechanism contributing to tissue damage and immune dysregulation in various diseases, including pneumonia. This review comprehensively analyzes the role of necroptosis in pneumonia and explores potential pharmacological interventions targeting this cell death pathway. Moreover, we highlight the intricate interplay between necroptosis and immune responses in pneumonia, revealing a bidirectional relationship between necrotic cell death and inflammatory signaling. Importantly, we assess current therapeutic strategies modulating necroptosis, encompassing synthetic inhibitors, natural products, and other drugs targeting key components of the programmed necrosis pathway. The article also discusses challenges and future directions in targeting programmed necrosis for pneumonia treatment, proposing novel therapeutic strategies that combine antibiotics with necroptosis inhibitors. This review underscores the importance of understanding necroptosis in pneumonia and highlights the potential of pharmacological interventions to mitigate tissue damage and restore immune homeostasis in this devastating respiratory infection.

The Acute and Chronic Effects of Lion's Mane Mushroom Supplementation on Cognitive Function, Stress and Mood in Young Adults: A Double-Blind, Parallel Groups, Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

Given the bioactive properties and limited work to date, Hericium erinaceus (Lion's mane) shows promise in improving cognitive function and mood. However, much of the human research has concentrated on chronic supplementation in cognitively compromised cohorts.

OBJECTIVE

The current pilot study investigated the acute and chronic (28-day) cognitive and mood-enhancing effects of Hericium erinaceus in a healthy, young adult cohort.

DESIGN

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-groups design investigated the acute (60 min post dose) and chronic (28-day intervention) effects of 1.8 g Hericium erinaceus in 41 healthy adults aged 18-45 years.

RESULTS

Analysis revealed that following a single dose of Hericium erinaceus, participants performed quicker on the Stroop task (p = 0.005) at 60 min post dose. A trend towards reduced subjective stress was observed following 28-day supplementation (p = 0.051).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings tentatively suggest that Hericium erinaceus may improve speed of performance and reduce subjective stress in healthy, young adults. However, null and limited negative findings were also observed. Given the small sample size, these findings should be interpreted with caution. Further investigation in larger sample sizes is crucial, however the findings of this trial offer a promising avenue of interest.

Saffron (Crocus sativus) and its constituents for pain management: A review of current evidence

Pain can become a chronic and deliberating experience with a significant burden. In preclinical and clinical studies, Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) has shown analgesic activities. Considering the unsatisfactory results of current therapeutic management for chronic pain conditions, we aimed to review saffron's analgesic activity and underlying mechanisms. Saffron showed antinociceptive activities in formalin-, carrageenan-, and capsaicin-induced experimental pain models. Saffron analgesic activities affected several targets, including ion channels of nociceptors; the adrenergic system and central histaminic system; inhibition of inflammatory pathways, apoptotic pathways, and oxidative stress; regulation of NO pathway, and the endocannabinoid system. Clinical studies showed analgesia of Saffron in rheumatoid arthritis, after-pain following childbirth, dysmenorrhea, and fibromyalgia. Our literature review showed that saffron can be beneficial as an adjunct therapy to commonly used analgesics in practice, particularly in chronic pain conditions.

The Effect of the Rice Endosperm Protein Hydrolysate on the Subjective Negative Mood Status in Healthy Humans: A Randomized, Double-Blind, and Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

The rice endosperm protein (REP) hydrolysate containing the following rice endosperm protein derived oligopeptides QQFLPEGQSQSQK, LPEGQSQSQK, and pEQFLPEGQSQSQK (a N-terminal pyroglutamate residue-modified peptide) reportedly showed an antidepressant-like effect in an animal model. We investigated the effect of the REP hydrolysate on healthy humans who self-reported mental fatigue with subjectively low vigor. Seventy-six participants (age: 20-64 years) were randomly allocated to two groups. The influence of the REP hydrolysate on the mood state was evaluated in two studies: single intake (Study 1) and repeated intake over 4 weeks (Study 2). A salivary stress marker, Chromogranin A (CgA), was measured in Study 1. The single intake of the REP hydrolysate significantly improved the Profile of Mood Status 2nd edition for adults (POMS 2) subscale of Tension-Anxiety. Additionally, the salivary CgA concentrations were remarkably reduced after the single intake of the REP hydrolysate. Though a single intake of the REP hydrolysate did not significantly influence the other subscales and the TMD of the POMS 2 and the Euthymia Scale, both the subjective and objective results supported the possible effect of the REP hydrolysate on reducing anxiety and nervousness. No significant positive effects on the subjective mood state (Euthymia Scale and POMS 2) and sleep quality (Insomnia Severity Index) were observed in the trial setting employed for Study 2. In conclusion, a single intake of REP hydrolysate might help relax the subjective feelings of tension and anxiety. The effectiveness of repeated REP hydrolysate intake needs to be tested in a different clinical setting.

Acute Effect of a Saffron Extract (Safr'InsideTM) and Its Main Volatile Compound on the Stress Response in Healthy Young Men: A Randomized, Double Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study

According to animal studies, saffron and its main volatile compound safranal may reduce biological and behavioral signs of acute stress. However, little is known about its impact in humans. This study investigated the acute effect of a saffron extract and safranal on the biological and psychological stress responses in healthy men experiencing a laboratory stress procedure. In this double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, cross-over study, 19 volunteers aged 18-25 received a single dose of 30 mg saffron extract (Safr'Inside^TM), 0.06 mg synthetic safranal, or a placebo on three visits separated by a 28-day washout. Thirteen minutes after administration, participants were exposed to the Maastricht acute stress test (MAST). Salivary cortisol and cortisone were collected from 15 min before the MAST (and pre-dose), 3 min before the MAST, and then 15, 30, 45, 60, and 75 min after the MAST, and stress and anxiety were measured using visual analogic scales. Compared to the placebo, stress and anxiety were significantly toned down after Safranal and Safr'Inside^TM administration and coupled with a delay in the times to peak salivary cortisol and cortisone concentrations (p < 0.05). Safr'Inside^TM and its volatile compound seem to improve psychological stress response in healthy men after exposure to a lab-based stressor and may modulate the biological stress response.

The effect of Crocus sativus L. (saffron) herbal tea on happiness in postmenopausal women: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Evidence suggests that menopause can be associated with a variety of negative psychological changes such as depression and anxiety, and improving the mental health status of women during menopause is one of the important priorities and challenges of the health system. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of saffron (Crocus sativus L., Iridaceae) herbal tea on happiness in postmenopausal women.

METHODS

In this randomized clinical trial which was conducted in 2021, 72 postmenopausal women were enrolled and divided into intervention and control groups. The randomization blocks method was used for random allocation, and the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire was utilized to measure the scores. The intervention included the use of 30 mg of dried stigmas of the saffron plant, which was boiled once (in the morning, in 300 ml of boiling water for 10-15 min) and consumed with white rock candy as one cup of saffron tea daily. To compare the trend of changes and after removing the effect of other variables, generalized estimating equation (GEE) was used.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between the intervention and control groups in any of the quantitative and qualitative characteristics (p > 0.05). The results of paired samples t-test showed that the happiness mean score in the intervention group increased significantly (p < 0.001) from 42.93 ± 8.54 to 61.58 ± 8.24, while in the control group, there was no significant difference between the happiness mean score at the beginning and end of the study (p = 0.861). Also, after applying the treatment program in the intervention group, there was a significant difference between the two groups in terms of the happiness mean scores (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Saffron herbal tea had a positive effect on reducing depression and increasing the happiness score; thus, it is recommended that it should be used as a complementary treatment in consultation with the treating physician.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The present study was registered with the code of IRCT20210403050818N1 (Registration date: 09/04/2021) in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials. It was also approved by the Ethics Committee of Larestan University of Medical Sciences (Approval ID: IR.LARUMS.REC.1399.017).

The Therapeutic Impact of Plant-Based and Nutritional Supplements on Anxiety, Depressive Symptoms and Sleep Quality among Adults and Elderly: A Systematic Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

The emerging research in the literature continues to forecast a drastic and alarming increase in negative mental health and sleep health outcomes among populations, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly influenced people's way of life. With mental health pharmaceutical interventions continuing to be stigmatized and inaccessible among populations, natural supplements provide an opportunity for intervention.

OBJECTIVE

This study sought to conduct a systematic review of the literature on the most recent comprehensive evidence for which nutritional supplements have the greatest therapeutic impact on symptoms of anxiety, depression, and insomnia.

METHODS

A systematic search of the literature, utilizing several databases, including PubMed and Web of Science, was conducted on 29 April 2022. We used developed keywords and MeSH terms for the search. The study eligibility criteria included (1) a randomized control trial; (2) investigating a plant-based therapeutic or natural supplement as the intervention; (3) measuring at least one health outcome of the following: anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, or sleep health outcomes; (4) utilizing validated measurement tools to measure the outcome of interest; (5) written in the English language; (6) peer reviewed; and (7) focused on adults and elderly populations.

MAIN RESULTS

Following the PRISMA guidelines, 76 studies were included in this review. We used the revised Risk of Bias tool (RoB2) to assess the quality of all included randomized control trials. A qualitative data synthesis was conducted. Overall, we found several valuable insights from the evidence in the literature, including evidence that demonstrates the benefits of probiotics and vitamin B complexes on anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, and sleep quality. Implication of Key Findings: This review provides the most updated findings in the literature on the topic, including an abundance of research that was published in the past 5 years. Given the expected rise in negative mental and sleep health outcomes following the pandemic, the supplements and therapeutics identified in this study should be the target of intervention measures to increase their accessibility and affordability and allow them to be incorporated into clinical guidelines of treatment. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022361130.

Depression and Its Phytopharmacotherapy-A Narrative Review

Depression is a mental health disorder that develops as a result of complex psycho-neuro-immuno-endocrinological disturbances. This disease presents with mood disturbances, persistent sadness, loss of interest and impaired cognition, which causes distress to the patient and significantly affects the ability to function and have a satisfying family, social and professional life. Depression requires comprehensive management, including pharmacological treatment. Because pharmacotherapy of depression is a long-term process associated with the risk of numerous adverse drug effects, much attention is paid to alternative therapy methods, including phytopharmacotherapy, especially in treating mild or moderate depression. Preclinical studies and previous clinical studies confirm the antidepressant activity of active compounds in plants, such as St. John's wort, saffron crocus, lemon balm and lavender, or less known in European ethnopharmacology, roseroot, ginkgo, Korean ginseng, borage, brahmi, mimosa tree and magnolia bark. The active compounds in these plants exert antidepressive effects in similar mechanisms to those found in synthetic antidepressants. The description of phytopharmacodynamics includes inhibiting monoamine reuptake and monoamine oxidase activity and complex, agonistic or antagonistic effects on multiple central nervous system (CNS) receptors. Moreover, it is noteworthy that the anti-inflammatory effect is also important to the antidepressant activity of the plants mentioned above in light of the hypothesis that immunological disorders of the CNS are a significant pathogenetic factor of depression. This narrative review results from a traditional, non-systematic literature review. It briefly discusses the pathophysiology, symptomatology and treatment of depression, with a particular focus on the role of phytopharmacology in its treatment. It provides the mechanisms of action revealed in experimental studies of active ingredients isolated from herbal antidepressants and presents the results of selected clinical studies confirming their antidepressant effectiveness.

Current Knowledge of the Antidepressant Activity of Chemical Compounds from Crocus sativus L

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.

Complementary medicine in psychology practice: an analysis of Australian psychology guidelines and a comparison with other psychology associations from English speaking countries

Background

Psychologists, and their clients, are engaging with complementary medicine (CM). Increasing evidence for CM approaches, such as improved nutrition and St John’s wort, has led to their inclusion in the Royal Australian New Zealand College of Psychiatrists clinical practice guidelines for mood disorders. This research aims to determine in what ways, and to what extent, Australian psychology regulatory bodies and associations consider CM relevant to psychology practice. Specifically, how these regulatory bodies and professional association’s ethical and practice guidelines engage with CM.

Methods

Documents from Australian regulatory bodies and professional associations, that relate to the governance or guidance of psychologists’ clinical practice, were systematically searched for key terms relating to CM.

Results

There were no direct references to CM in the 58 ethical and practice guidelines reviewed. There was also no reference to the relevance of CM to ethnocultural groups, such as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander traditional healing practices.

Conclusion

While other mental health care disciplines are working toward integrating CM, the discipline of psychology in Australia is not currently engaged in such developments. Given the exponential rise of CM use amongst those with mental health problems, psychology associations should consider developing resources and guidelines to assist psychologists in navigating CM in relation to clinical practice to help minimise risks, such as patient safety associated with concurrent CM use.

Combining Topical and Oral Botanicals for Skin Redness, Pigmentation, Sleep, and Mood: A Randomized Controlled Study

External and internal stressors have been found to adversely affect skin health and overall wellness. There is growing interest in the use of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant plant-derived ingredients, such as ashwagandha, saffron, l-theanine, and tocopherol, to mitigate the impact of these stressors. In this study, we evaluate the effectiveness of oral and topical products (InnerCalm and SuperCalm, respectively) that contain naturally derived ingredients on skin redness, skin pigmentation, sleep, and mood in healthy females with Fitzpatrick skin type 1−4 and self-perceived sensitive skin. Subjects were randomized to an oral (oral group), a topical (topical group), or a combination of both the oral and topical interventions (combined group). Standardized photography-based image analysis was used to assess skin redness and pigment. Self-assessments of mood and sleep were measured with the abbreviated profile of mood states (POMS) questionnaire, and the Pittsburgh sleep-quality index (PSQI), respectively. Assessments were made at the baseline, 1-week, 4-weeks, and 8-weeks of the intervention. The average facial redness decreased in the topical group at 8-weeks (p < 0.001) and in the combined group at 4-weeks (p < 0.05) and 8-weeks (p < 0.001), relative to the baseline. The average facial pigmentation decreased in the oral (p < 0.05) and combined (p < 0.05) cohorts at 8-weeks, relative to the baseline. The oral group exhibited an improvement in sleep quality at 1-week relative to the baseline (p < 0.05) and at 8-weeks relative to the baseline (p < 0.05). Finally, the combined group demonstrated improvement in fatigue (p < 0.01) and confusion (p < 0.05) at 8-weeks relative to the baseline, though total mood disturbance increased in all 3 groups over the course of the study. Measured outcomes relating to mood may be confounded with the timing of the study, which ran during the COVID pandemic. Overall, we demonstrate the role of oral and topical herbs and of nutraceuticals for skin health and wellness. Further research will be needed to elucidate synergistic effects in oral and topical combination regimens.

The chronic effects of a combination of herbal extracts (Euphytose®) on psychological mood state and response to a laboratory stressor: A randomised, placebo-controlled, double blind study in healthy humans

BACKGROUND

Global lifetime prevalence of anxiety disorders has been estimated at approximately 16.6%, with subclinical prevalence likely much higher. Herbal approaches to reduce anxiety may be as effective as pharmacological treatments and are less likely to be associated with adverse side effects. The herbal species, namely, valerian, passionflower, hawthorn and ballota, have a long history of use as anxiolytics in traditional medicine, further supported by recent pre-clinical and clinical trials.

AIMS

To assess the effects of chronic (14 days) supplementation with a multi-herb extract preparation (MHEP, Euphytose^®) on psychological state and psychological and physiological stress responses during a laboratory stressor.

METHODS

In this crossover study, 31 healthy participants (aged 19-58 years) received a MHEP and placebo for 14 days with a 28-day washout. Anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory), mood and physiological measures of stress (heart rate, galvanic skin response, salivary α-amylase and cortisol levels) were measured before and after an Observed Multitasking Stressor. Cognitive performance was also assessed.

RESULTS

MHEP was associated with reduced tension-anxiety (p = 0.038), with participants showing an attenuated response to the observed multitasking psychosocial stressor following MHEP, evidenced by lower salivary α-amylase (p = 0.041) and galvanic skin response (p = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of herbal extracts contained within the MHEP reduced subjective anxiety in a healthy population and lowered electrodermal skin conductance and concentration of salivary α-amylase in response to a psychosocial stressor, compared to placebo. The study was registered on clinicaltrials.gov (identifier: NCT03909906).

Authentication of Iranian Saffron (Crocus sativus) Using Stable Isotopes δ13C and δ2H and Metabolites Quantification

Saffron is a very high value-added ingredient used in the food supplement market and contains a high level of safranal. Adding synthetic safranal to saffron, which is significantly cheaper, and falsifying the origin of saffron may represent recurrent fraud. Saffron from different countries was analyzed to determine the stable isotope ratios δ13C and δ2H from safranal by gas chromatography coupled with isotope-ratio mass spectrometry (GC-C/P-IRMS) and the concentration of saffron metabolites with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detector (UHPLC-DAD). The isotopic analysis highlighted a higher ratio of δ2H in synthetic safranal than in natural safranal; the mean values were 36‰ (+/− 40) and −210‰ (+/− 35), respectively. The δ13C between Iranian, Spanish and other saffron was significantly different and represents median values of −28.62‰, −30.12‰ and −30.70‰, respectively. Moreover, linear and quadratic discriminant analyses (LDA and QDA) were computed using the two isotope ratios of safranal and the saffron metabolites. A first QDA showed that trans-crocetin and the δ13C of safranal, picrocrocin, and crocin C3 concentrations clearly differentiated Iranian saffron from other origins. A second model identified δ13C, trans-crocetin, crocin C2, crocin C3, and picrocrocin as good predictors to discriminate saffron samples from Iran, Spain, or other origins, with a total ability score classification matrix of 100% and a prediction matrix of 82.5%. This combined approach may be a useful tool to authenticate the origin of unknown saffron.

Saffron Extract Attenuates Anxiogenic Effect and Improves Cognitive Behavior in an Adult Zebrafish Model of Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has the highest mortality rates worldwide, yet effective treatment remains unavailable. TBI causes inflammatory responses, endoplasmic reticulum stress, disruption of the blood-brain barrier and neurodegeneration that lead to loss of cognition, memory and motor skills. Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is known for its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, which makes it a potential candidate for TBI treatment. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) shares a high degree of genetic homology and cell signaling pathways with mammals. Its active neuro-regenerative function makes it an excellent model organism for TBI therapeutic drug identification. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of saffron administration to a TBI zebrafish model by investigating behavioral outcomes such as anxiety, fear and memory skills using a series of behavioral tests. Saffron exhibited anxiolytic effect on anxiety-like behaviors, and showed prevention of fear inhibition observed after TBI. It improved learning and enhanced memory performance. These results suggest that saffron could be a novel therapeutic enhancer for neural repair and regeneration of networks post-TBI.

Crocins for Ischemic Stroke: A Review of Current Evidence

Crocins (CRs) and the related active constituents derived from Crocus sativus L. (Saffron) have demonstrated protective effects against cerebral ischemia and ischemic stroke, with various bioactivities including neuroprotection, anti-neuroinflammation, antioxidant, and cardiovascular protection. Among CRs, crocin (CR) has been shown to act on multiple mechanisms and signaling pathways involved in ischemic stroke, including mitochondrial apoptosis, nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of B cells pathway, S100 calcium-binding protein B, interleukin-6 and vascular endothelial growth factor-A. CR is generally safe and well-tolerated. Pharmacokinetic studies indicate that CR has poor bioavailability and needs to convert to crocetin (CC) in order to cross the blood-brain barrier. Clinical studies have shown the efficacy of saffron and CR in treating various conditions, including metabolic syndrome, depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and coronary artery disease. There is evidence supporting CR as a treatment for ischemic stroke, although further studies are needed to confirm their efficacy and safety in clinical settings.

Circulating Human Serum Metabolites Derived from the Intake of a Saffron Extract (Safr'InsideTM) Protect Neurons from Oxidative Stress: Consideration for Depressive Disorders

Increases in oxidative stress have been reported to play a central role in the vulnerability to depression, and antidepressant drugs may reduce increased oxidative stress in patients. Among the plants exerting anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties, saffron, a spice derived from the flower of Crocus sativus, is also known for its positive effects on depression, potentially through its SSRI-like properties. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects and their health benefits for humans are currently unclear. Using an original ex vivo clinical approach, we demonstrated for the first time that the circulating human metabolites produced following saffron intake (Safr’Inside^TM) protect human neurons from oxidative-stress-induced neurotoxicity by preserving cell viability and increasing BNDF production. In particular, the metabolites significantly stimulated both dopamine and serotonin release. In addition, the saffron’s metabolites were also able to protect serotonergic tone by inhibiting the expression of the serotonin transporter SERT and down-regulating serotonin metabolism. Altogether, these data provide new biochemical insights into the mechanisms underlying the beneficial impact of saffron on neuronal viability and activity in humans, in the context of oxidative stress related to depression.

Prevention of Stress-Induced Depressive-like Behavior by Saffron Extract Is Associated with Modulation of Kynurenine Pathway and Monoamine Neurotransmission

Depressive disorders are a major public health concern. Despite currently available treatment options, their prevalence steadily increases, and a high rate of therapeutic failure is often reported, together with important antidepressant-related side effects. This highlights the need to improve existing therapeutic strategies, including by using nutritional interventions. In that context, saffron recently received particular attention for its beneficial effects on mood, although the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. This study investigated in mice the impact of a saffron extract (Safr’Inside™; 6.25 mg/kg, per os) on acute restraint stress (ARS)-induced depressive-like behavior and related neurobiological alterations, by focusing on hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, inflammation-related metabolic pathways, and monoaminergic systems, all known to be altered by stress and involved in depressive disorder pathophysiology. When given before stress onset, Safr’Inside administration attenuated ARS-induced depressive-like behavior in the forced swim test. Importantly, it concomitantly reversed several stress-induced monoamine dysregulations and modulated the expression of key enzymes of the kynurenine pathway, likely reducing kynurenine-related neurotoxicity. These results show that saffron pretreatment prevents the development of stress-induced depressive symptoms and improves our understanding about the underlying mechanisms, which is a central issue to validate the therapeutic relevance of nutritional interventions with saffron in depressed patients.