Positive Health Online

Abstract

ABE and SAITO, Laboratory of Chemical Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan reviewed recent evidence of the effects of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) extract on learning and memory in animals .

Background

Methodology

Results

Saffron extract improved ethanol-induced impairments in learning behaviours in mice. In electrophysiological studies, saffron extract prevented ethanol-induced inhibition of hippocampal long-term potentiation, a process that may underlie learning and memory. These effects are attributed to the saffron constituent crocin (crocetin di-gentiobiose ester) but not crocetin.

Conclusion

Saffron extract, or its active constituents crocetin and crocin, may be useful in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders accompanying memory impairment .

References

Abe K, Saito H. Effects of saffron extract and its constituent crocin on learning behaviour and long-term potentiation. Phytotherapy Research 14 (3): 149-52. May 2000.