Saffron Extract's Effect on Lipid Profile in Hyperlipidaemic Models
Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: A Systematic Review on the Effect of Saffron Extract on Lipid Profile in Hyperlipidaemic Experimental Animal Models
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Iman Nabilah Abd Rahim, Noor Alicezah Mohd Kasim, Mohamad Rodi Isa, Hapizah Nawawi
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The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:
(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)
Full text available for: A Systematic Review on the Effect of Saffron Extract on Lipid Profile in Hyperlipidaemic Experimental Animal Models
Year: 2022 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2022.29.4.3
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Saffron, derived from the flower Crocus sativus L., has been traditionally used in medicine for centuries, including its application in treating hyperlipidaemia, a condition characterized by abnormal lipid levels in the blood. Dyslipidaemia, which involves high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, is linked to increased risks of cardiovascular diseases. Pharmacological treatments for hyperlipidaemia, primarily statins, are commonly associated with various side effects, prompting a search for natural alternatives like saffron extract (SE).
Benefits of Saffron Extract on Lipid Profile
Recent systematic reviews have demonstrated that SE possesses significant hypolipidaemic properties, specifically its ability to lower total cholesterol, LDL, and triglyceride levels while simultaneously increasing HDL levels in hyperlipidaemic animal models. Notably, studies revealed that doses of SE ranging from 40 mg/kg to 80 mg/kg resulted in substantial reductions of lipid profile parameters, with reductions in total cholesterol observed between 21.4% and 50%. The presence of bioactive compounds such as crocin and crocetin in saffron is believed to play a crucial role in these effects by inhibiting fat absorption and enhancing lipid metabolism. Importantly, the efficacy of SE in lipid management appears comparable to that of standard pharmacological treatments, providing a potential natural alternative for hyperlipidaemic patients.
Conclusion
This systematic review highlights the promising potential of saffron extract as a natural hypolipidaemic agent capable of positively impacting lipid profiles in individuals suffering from hyperlipidaemia. While the results demonstrated the ability of SE to effect significant changes in cholesterol levels and improve overall lipid profiles, further research is needed to establish dosage efficacy, optimal treatment durations, and extraction methods. The findings support the integration of SE into treatment strategies aimed at managing hyperlipidaemia and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, aligning with global health initiatives to prevent and control non-communicable diseases.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is saffron used for in traditional medicine?
Saffron is commonly used in traditional medicine for treating various disorders including hyperlipidaemia, depression, cardiovascular diseases, menstruation disorders, asthma, and digestive ailments.
How does saffron extract affect the lipid profile?
Saffron extract has been shown to significantly lower total cholesterol, low-density lipoproteins, and triglycerides while increasing high-density lipoproteins in hyperlipidaemic experimental animal models.
What extraction methods were used for saffron in studies?
The studies used aqueous, ethanolic, and hydroalcoholic extraction methods for saffron, with most utilizing aqueous extracts, which allowed for examination of its hypolipidaemic effects.
What are the recommended doses of saffron extract?
Recommended doses of saffron extract range from 10 mg/kg to 100 mg/kg, with significant effects observed at doses of 40 mg/kg and 80 mg/kg in clinical studies.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Saffron Extract's Effect on Lipid Profile in Hyperlipidaemic Models”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Study (Studying):
The term 'study' refers to a systematic investigation aimed at discovering or interpreting facts, theories, or principles. In the context of pharmacological research, it pertains to examining saffron extract's effects on lipid profiles. Such a study is essential for validating saffron's potential in managing hyperlipidaemia and enhancing medical science knowledge.
2) Animal:
'Animal' in this context pertains to experimental subjects used to investigate pharmacological effects. The studies in the text primarily utilized rats and hamsters to assess saffron's hypolipidaemic effects. Animal models are pivotal in pharmaceutical research as they help simulate human disease conditions, providing insights crucial for developing effective treatments.
3) Table:
'Table' refers to a structured format for presenting data clearly and concisely. In research articles, tables summarize findings, such as saffron extracts' effects on various lipid components. They enhance readability and allow for easy comparison of results across studies, aiding researchers and readers in grasping significant patterns in the data.
4) Disease:
'Disease' is a term encompassing a wide range of health impairments. The studies focus on diseases related to hyperlipidaemia, illustrating the relevance of saffron extract as a natural remedy. Understanding disease mechanisms is vital for developing effective treatments, and saffron's potential role in mitigating conditions like atherosclerosis highlights its therapeutic significance.
5) Food:
'Food' pertains to the substances consumed to sustain life and health. In pharmacological research, the effect of saffron as a dietary supplement is examined, as dietary components can influence diseases like hyperlipidaemia. The interaction of food with medicinal compounds is crucial in studying their efficacy, safety, and nutritional impact.
6) Blood:
'Blood' is vital for transporting nutrients, oxygen, and waste products throughout the body. In the context of the studies, blood parameters, such as lipid profiles, are measured to evaluate the effects of saffron. Monitoring blood composition is critical in understanding health outcomes and the impact of treatments on metabolic diseases.
7) Male:
'Male' refers to the gender of the experimental animals used in the studies. Gender can significantly influence physiological responses and disease susceptibility. By focusing on male subjects, researchers aim to control variables that could confound results, ensuring that findings regarding saffron's efficacy are valid and applicable to broader populations.
8) Substance:
'Substance' refers to the material being studied—in this case, saffron extract. Researching the pharmacological properties of a substance helps define its therapeutic potential and mechanisms of action. Understanding how a substance affects biological systems is critical for developing effective treatments and managing medical conditions like hyperlipidaemia.
9) Water:
'Water' is important in biological reactions and is often used as a solvent for extraction processes in pharmacological research. Saffron extracts can vary based on the solvent used; understanding water's role helps ascertain the efficacy of extraction methods in releasing bioactive compounds that may influence health outcomes.
10) Medicine:
'Medicine' encompasses the science of diagnosing, treating, and preventing illness. The research into saffron's effects contributes to the field of medicine by exploring natural alternatives for managing diseases related to lipid imbalances. Discovering effective medicinal compounds is crucial for enhancing therapeutic options in patient care.
11) Crocus sativus:
'Crocus sativus' is the scientific name for the saffron flower, whose stigmas are used for medicinal purposes. This plant draws significant attention for its bioactive compounds which may exhibit hypolipidaemic effects. Recognizing the plant's botanical classification aids in contextualizing its uses in traditional and modern medicine.
12) Toxicity:
'Toxicity' refers to the degree a substance can harm organisms. Researching saffron's safety profile is essential to establish safe usage guidelines. Evaluating the toxicity of medicinal compounds ensures that potential adverse effects are recognized, helping in drug development and justifying the therapeutic application of natural products.
13) Science (Scientific):
'Science' is a systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge through testable explanations and predictions. Pharmacological investigations of saffron's effects on health are integral to advancing scientific understanding. Rigorous scientific methods validate findings and enhance the credibility of treatments derived from natural substances like saffron.
14) Diet:
'Diet' refers to the habitual consumption of food and drink, influencing overall health, particularly in metabolic disorders. The studies on saffron examine its role in improving lipid profiles, elucidating how dietary interventions can manage conditions like hyperlipidaemia. Understanding dietary impacts is essential for developing effective health strategies.
15) Qian:
'Qian' likely refers to a researcher or scientist associated with studies mentioned in the text. Acknowledging individual contributions is vital in the scientific community as it highlights collaboration and credibility in research. Researchers named in studies ensure peer-reviewed work's reliability and facilitate knowledge advancement.
16) Inflammation:
'Inflammation' is a biological response to harmful stimuli, which can play a critical role in various diseases, including those related to hyperlipidaemia. Saffron's anti-inflammatory properties may mitigate lipid-induced damage, illustrating its potential therapeutic benefits. Understanding inflammation dynamics aids in creating effective treatment strategies for metabolic disorders.
17) Colouring (Coloring):
'Colouring' refers to the pigment properties of saffron, vital in both culinary and medicinal contexts. In the assessment of saffron extracts, coloring compounds may be linked to certain health benefits. Understanding these properties is important for food science and exploring saffron's full range of applications in health and nutrition.
18) Quality:
'Quality' addresses the standard of a substance and its systematic evaluation for efficacy and safety. In pharmacology, the quality of saffron extracts impacts their therapeutic potential. Ensuring high-quality preparations is essential for achieving consistent results in experiments, thereby enhancing the reliability and applicability of findings in clinical settings.
19) Sign:
'Sign' typically represents a marker or evidence of a phenomenon. In clinical research, signs can indicate treatment effectiveness or progression of a disease. Identifying signs related to saffron's effects on lipid profiles is essential for validating its potential as a therapeutic agent for managing hyperlipidaemia.
20) Hand:
'Hand' in research contexts often refers to the precise handling of substances, especially during the administration and evaluation of treatments. Accurate handling of saffron extracts in experiments ensures reliable dosing and administration, which are pivotal for obtaining valid and reproducible results in pharmacological studies.
21) Measurement:
'Measurement' is the process of quantifying variables in scientific studies. Accurate lipid profile measurements in the studies evaluating saffron's effects are crucial for assessing treatment outcomes. Reliable measurement techniques are essential for establishing standard protocols and ensuring consistency across different experiments in pharmacological research.
22) Discussion:
'Discussion' in academic articles analyzes the implications of findings, considering their significance and limitations. In research on saffron's effects, the discussion places results within a broader context, comparing them to previous studies and exploring potential mechanisms. This critical examination is vital for advancing understanding and guiding future research.
23) Developing:
'Developing' refers to the process of creating or advancing a concept or product. In the context of saffron research, it encompasses the formulation of new treatments based on traditional knowledge. Understanding the developing processes helps bridge the gap between traditional medicine and contemporary pharmacology, driving innovation in healthcare solutions.
24) Toxicology:
'Toxicology' is the study of the adverse effects of substances on living organisms. This field is crucial in assessing the safety of medicinal products like saffron extracts. Understanding toxicological profiles informs dosage guidelines and helps mitigate risks associated with herbal remedies, ensuring safe therapeutic usage.
25) Epidemic:
'Epidemic' refers to an occurrence of disease that affects a large number of individuals within a community. In relation to hyperlipidaemia, understanding its epidemic nature emphasizes the need for effective treatments. Researching saffron's potential benefits highlights proactive measures in addressing public health challenges associated with lipid disorders.
26) Activity:
'Activity' encompasses the functional effects or actions of a substance. In pharmacological research, assessing saffron's activity against dyslipidaemia is vital for establishing its therapeutic potential. Understanding the mechanisms of action provides insights into how saffron affects lipid metabolism and can inform clinical applications.
27) Samini:
'Samini' seems to refer to a contributor to the research or findings discussed in the text. Recognizing the work of authors and researchers is important for academic integrity and tracing the origins of scientific discoveries, fostering collaboration, and encouraging further exploration in pharmacological research.
28) Reason:
'Reason' relates to the justification behind observations or conclusions in research. In the context of saffron studies, understanding the reasons behind observed effects on lipid profiles can inform clinical practices and guide further research, leading to a deeper comprehension of the mechanisms involved in saffron's beneficial impacts.
29) Indian:
'Indian' likely refers to the geographical or cultural context of saffron use. While primarily associated with Iran, saffron has historical significance in Indian cuisine and medicine. Exploring its cultural connections enriches the understanding of saffron's applications and underlines its global relevance in dietary practices and therapeutic uses.
30) Sugar:
'Sugar' refers to simple carbohydrates, which are part of diet considerations but also linked to metabolic disorders. In research concerning lipid profiles, understanding sugar's interaction with lipid metabolism is crucial for developing dietary guidelines and therapeutic strategies aimed at managing conditions like hyperlipidaemia.
31) Rules:
'Rules' imply established guidelines or principles that govern research methodologies. In scientific inquiry, adhering to rigorous rules ensures the validity and reliability of findings. The application of proper research rules is paramount to maintain objectivity and standardization in pharmacological studies investigating substances like saffron.
32) Shani (Sani):
'Sani' appears to refer to a researcher or co-author involved in the studies discussed. Recognizing individuals contributing to research enhances accountability and highlights collaboration within the scientific community. This acknowledgment fosters a culture of cooperation and supports the promotion of transparent and credible scientific inquiry.
33) Arya:
'Arya' may refer to an author or contributor to the studies presented. Their involvement underscores the collaborative efforts in pharmacological research that enhance the credibility of findings. Recognizing contributions from various authors enriches the academic dialogue surrounding saffron's medicinal potential.
34) Pelu:
'Pelu' seems related to a researcher or author associated with the studies published on saffron. Acknowledging individual contributions within studies not only encourages collaboration among researchers but also provides context to the body of work associated with saffron's lipid profile effects.
35) Drug:
'Drug' refers to substances that can alter physiological functions or treat diseases. In the context of saffron, discussing it as a potential drug for hyperlipidaemia emphasizes its therapeutic prospects. Understanding how saffron functions as a drug can pave the way for incorporating natural remedies into conventional treatment strategies.
36) Pharmacological:
'Pharmacological' relates to the branch of medicine concerned with the uses and effects of drugs. Researching saffron's pharmacological properties helps elucidate its mechanisms of action and therapeutic potential, bridging traditional use and modern pharmaceutical science. This field is essential for verifying natural substances as viable treatment options in healthcare.
37) Calculation:
'Calculation' involves mathematical assessments used in research for analyzing data and outcomes. In the context of pharmacological studies, calculations of lipid levels or dosages are crucial for effective treatment development. Precise calculations enhance the reliability of research findings and contribute to the formulation of therapeutic guidelines.
38) Irritation:
'Irritation' refers to the unwanted inflammatory response that certain substances can provoke. Understanding irritation is fundamental in toxicology and pharmacotherapeutic studies, as it guides researchers in establishing safety profiles for substances. Assessing saffron's potential to cause irritation helps ensure safe usage in clinical applications.
39) Depression:
'Depression' is a mood disorder that can be influenced by various dietary components, including saffron. Recognizing saffron's historical use in treating depression highlights its broader therapeutic applications. Exploring its effects on mood disorders through research contributes to the overall understanding of its pharmacological benefits and promotes mental health interventions.
40) Harvesting (Harvest):
'Harvesting' relates to the collection of saffron stigmas, which is labor-intensive and conducted manually. This aspect contributes to saffron's high market value. Understanding harvesting methods is essential for comprehending the quality and efficacy of saffron used in clinical studies, impacting the outcomes of pharmacological research.
41) Knowledge:
'Knowledge' refers to the information and understanding gained through experience or education. In pharmacological research, knowledge is essential for advancing scientific inquiry and developing effective treatments. Research into saffron contributes to the collective knowledge base, enabling healthcare professionals to utilize such natural compounds in evidence-based practices.
42) Education:
'Education' is vital in disseminating information and cultivating understanding of health-related topics, including the benefits of saffron. Educating healthcare providers and the public about the potential role of saffron in managing conditions like hyperlipidaemia enhances awareness and encourages informed decisions regarding dietary and therapeutic practices.
43) Language:
'Language' refers to the system of communication used in conveying research and findings. In academic discourse, precise and standardized language is crucial for clarity and understanding. Effective communication in research writing ensures that findings regarding saffron's effects are accessible and impactful for both scientific and general communities.
44) Dealing:
'Dealing' indicates managing or addressing specific issues or challenges. In research contexts, dealing with variables such as dosage, extraction methods, and study designs is critical for obtaining valid results. Properly addressing these factors enhances the understanding of saffron's hypolipidaemic effects and facilitates better health outcomes.
45) Surface:
'Surface' typically pertains to the outermost layer of a substance. In pharmacological contexts, it may refer to the interface through which absorption occurs. Understanding how saffron compounds interact on a molecular level at the surface can inform drug design and application methods in therapeutic settings.
46) Death:
'Death' represents the cessation of life and is often a consideration in medical research. Understanding how diseases, such as hyperlipidaemia, can lead to increased mortality rates emphasizes the urgency for effective treatments. Research exploring saffron's potential health benefits may contribute to preventing life-threatening conditions.
47) Bile:
'Bile' is a digestive fluid produced by the liver, crucial for fat emulsification and absorption. In the context of lipid metabolism, understanding bile's role can reveal insights into how saffron may influence cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Investigating relationships between bile and dietary components like saffron can enhance dietary recommendations.
48) Wall:
'Wall' may reference cellular or anatomical boundaries within the context of pharmacological research. Understanding the structural integrity and functionality of cell walls in lipid metabolism is vital when assessing the effects of saffron extracts on cellular processes, particularly in relation to vascular health.
49) Line:
'Line' represents a sequence or connection in a study or argument. In pharmacological research, establishing a clear line of inquiry is essential for uncovering effects and mechanisms. Drawing connections between saffron's efficacy and its biochemical pathways enhances the understanding of its health applications.
50) Post:
'Post' is typically used to denote after a specific event or stage. In research, post-treatment evaluations are essential to determine the effects of interventions, such as saffron extract on lipid profiles. Recognizing post-therapeutic outcomes is key in understanding time-dependent effects of treatments in health studies.
51) Pur:
'Poor' describes conditions that lack quality or effectiveness. In health contexts, addressing poor lipid profiles and their implications for diseases is essential for improving patient outcomes. Researching saffron's potential benefits can offer insights into improving dietary practices and health strategies for managing poor lipid conditions.
52) Life:
'Life' denotes the existence and functioning of living organisms. In the medical field, understanding the complexities of biological life is fundamental in developing effective treatments. Researching natural remedies like saffron seeks to enhance life quality by addressing diseases that affect metabolic health, thus promoting overall well-being.
Other Health Sciences Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Saffron Extract's Effect on Lipid Profile in Hyperlipidaemic Models’. Further sources in the context of Health Sciences might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
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