Systematic review, 2024
Can saffron help with PMS, dysmenorrhea, and other women's health problems?
Yes, saffron appears to help with dysmenorrhea, PMS, menopause, and other reproductive issues through its antioxidant and hormone-regulating properties, though most evidence comes from lab studies.
What they did
Systematic review searching PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Scientific Information Database through July 2023. The review included in vivo studies, in vitro studies, and human studies about saffron and its active compounds. A total of 50 studies were selected.
What they found
The 50 studies confirmed that saffron regulates sex hormones, supports ovulation and ovary function, and protects the ovary and uterus against oxidative stress. Saffron alleviates symptoms of dysmenorrhea, PMS, menopause, polycystic ovary disease, and sexual dysfunction. The main active compounds are crocin, crocetin, and safranal.
What it means for you
Saffron shows promise for many women's health problems through its chemical compounds, but most of the 50 studies were lab or animal studies rather than human trials. Larger human clinical trials are needed before doctors can recommend saffron confidently.
50
studies reviewed
3
main active compounds
About the study
- Original title
- Therapeutic effects of saffron (Crocus sativus L) on female reproductive system disorders: A systematic review
- Authors
- Hasheminasab FS, Azimi M, Raeiszadeh M
- Journal
- Phytotherapy research : PTR
- Year
- 2024
- Study design
- Systematic review
- What was tested
- Crocus sativus (saffron) and its compounds
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1002/ptr.8186
Topics
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