Saffron the "Red Gold" and Its CNS Activity: A Challenge for Future Applications in Nutraceuticals

Saffron, indicated as "the red gold," is an extraordinary spice with a unique aroma and organoleptic properties that is largely diffused in food preparation as well as a traditional medicine in many countries of the world. In the last years, several studies have considered this spice for CNS-based disorders showing its potential usefulness. In this review, we considered the role of saffron as a nutraceutical for the management of the most diffused CNS diseases considering the important role of oxidative stress on the pathogenesis of such diseases. In fact, recent findings support a crucial role of oxidative stress in different CNS diseases suggesting an important role of antioxidants. Preclinical and clinical evidence of its efficacy in different physiopathological pathways involved in several CNS diseases were discussed showing evidence of pharmacological activities and beneficial effects in pathological models or in small trials. Due to low toxicity and significant activities on oxidative stress and inflammation as well as the ability to modulate mitochondrial function, the saffron extracts and their constituents appear to be promising nutraceutical active compounds in this area. Further investigations are in progress to assess the efficacy and safety of preventive agents as nutraceuticals or as adjuvant compounds to be used in combinations with other therapeutic approaches. Saffron nutraceuticals with significant antioxidant activity can be useful in improving the quality of life of patients suffering from several different pathological conditions related to CNS. In this review, we summarized the more recent studies showing that standardized saffron products can be a valuable instrument of well-being due to their effects on multiple targets that support the health of the brain and related tissues.