SAFFRON EXTRACT (CROCUS SATIVUS)(FLOWER)(STD. TO 0.3% SAFRANAL)

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) extract is derived from the dried stigmas of the saffron crocus flower, a highly prized botanical recognized globally for its distinct color, flavor, and profound therapeutic properties. Originating from ancient Greece, saffron cultivation has spread across various regions, with Iran, Spain, and India being prominent producers. The inherent value of saffron stems from its labor-intensive harvesting process, where each flower yields only three delicate stigmas. Our Saffron Extract is meticulously standardized to 0.3% Safranal, a crucial volatile compound responsible for saffron's characteristic aroma and a significant portion of its pharmacological activities. This standardization ensures consistent potency and reliable efficacy in formulations, reflecting its long-standing traditional use in various cultures for addressing a wide array of health concerns, from mood disturbances to digestive discomforts, solidifying its status as a valuable medicinal plant throughout history.

Saffron's extensive health benefits are primarily attributed to its rich profile of bioactive compounds, most notably the carotenoids crocin and crocetin, and the monoterpene aldehyde safranal. Crocin and crocetin impart saffron's vibrant red-orange hue and exhibit potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as evidenced by numerous in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrating their ability to scavenge free radicals and mitigate oxidative stress. Safranal, on the other hand, is a key component contributing to saffron's unique scent and has been extensively studied for its anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects. Research suggests these effects may be mediated through the modulation of neurotransmitter systems, including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine pathways, as supported by clinical meta-analyses indicating significant improvements in symptoms of mild-to-moderate depression and anxiety, often comparable to conventional pharmacological interventions without severe side effects.

This standardized Saffron Extract (0.3% Safranal) serves as an exceptional ingredient for a diverse range of supplement formulations, particularly those targeting mood enhancement, stress reduction, cognitive support, and sleep optimization. Its versatility allows for seamless integration into various delivery forms, including capsules, tablets, and even functional food applications. Ensuring product quality is paramount; therefore, reputable suppliers utilize advanced analytical techniques such as High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) to verify the extract's authenticity, purity, and precise bioactive compound profile, guaranteeing freedom from adulterants. Clinical research, including randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials published in journals like the Journal of Affective Disorders, consistently validates saffron extract's efficacy in alleviating depressive symptoms over sustained periods. Furthermore, emerging evidence indicates its potential in areas such as appetite regulation and age-related macular degeneration, broadening its therapeutic scope and reinforcing its value as an evidence-based botanical ingredient in the nutraceutical industry.