Immunoregulatory and anti-inflammatory properties of Crocus sativus (Saffron) and its main active constituents: A review.

The medicinal uses of saffron, the dried stigmas of Crocus sativus L., have very long history in food coloring agent, and flavoring agent as well as traditional medicine for the treatment of several diseases. Crocus sativus is rich in carotenoids that affect immunity. This review summarizes the putative immunoregulatory effects of saffron and its active its derivatives including crocin, crocetin and safranal. In modern studies, its active...