Cancer-Fighting Spice Has Multiple Health Effects
Antioxidants in the diet may help prevent cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute's web site. Fruits, vegetables, and spices are natural sources of antioxidants. Saffron is a spice made from the Crocus sativus flower that has received much attention in recent lab studies.
A research group led by S. A. Ordoudi in Greece reported that “saffron extracts exhibit a remarkable intracellular antioxidant activity” that may account for some of its health effects. Nathan Seppa reported in Science News that saffron may be beneficial in preventing cancer.
M. H. Modaghegh and colleagues at the Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Iran, conducted a study of saffron's safety in humans. At doses of 400 mg per day, changes were noted in blood pressure and blood chemistry. “However, these alterations were in normal ranges and they were not important clinically,” Modaghegh concluded.
Saffron has been tested in humans at lower doses for a number of indications. Successful tests include the following:
1.Obesity. In a study of mildly overweight women, 176.5 mg per day of Crocus sativus extract reduced snacking behavior. This work was performed by B. Gout and colleagues in France.
2.Alzheimer's disease. In a study of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease, 30 mg per day of saffron had effects similar to the drug donepezil. This work was performed by S. Akhondzadeh and colleagues in Iran.
3.Pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS). In a study of women aged 20 to 45 years, 30 mg per day of saffron was significantly more effective than placebo in treating PMS. This work was performed by M. Agha-Hosseini and colleagues in Iran.
Currently, saffron is in clinical trials for two eye conditions: age-related macular degeneration and Stargardt's disease. Both studies are led by Benedetto Falsini of Rome, Italy. The dosage is 20 mg per day in each case.
Saffron recipes are widely available online. This versatile spice adds flavor and color without adding calories. It may also help protect us from cancer, neurological degeneration, and possibly other conditions.
References:
1. National Cancer Institute. Antioxidants and Cancer Prevention: Fact Sheet
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