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Effects of saffron aqueous extract and its main constituent, crocin, on health-related quality of life, depression, and sexual desire in coronary artery disease patients: A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial
Since depression and sexual problems are commonly seen in patients with coronary artery disease (and affecting their quality of life), this 2017 study was conducted to determine the efficacy of saffron and crocin (one of its main constituents) on improving mental health and quality of life in people with coronary artery disease. The patients (aged between 40-65 years) were divided into 3 groups: one placebo and 2 intervention groups. One of these intervention groups received 30 milligrams of saffron aqueous extract, while the other group was given 30 milligrams of crocin for 8 weeks. The study design was randomized and double-blind, meaning that neither the participants nor the researcher knew which treatment or intervention the subjects were receiving until the clinical trial was over. Compared to pre-treatment, both the saffron and crocin intervention groups saw significant reductions in depression scores in one of the measures (Beck’s Depression Inventory). There was no apparent difference in total depression score between the saffron and crocin groups. Both groups markedly enhanced patients’ quality of life, although they had no major effect on sexual desire. Ultimately, both saffron and crocin improved depression and quality of life in patients with coronary heart disease. [NPID: saffron, crocin, herbs, mental health, alternative, medicine, Iran, Iranian, depression, sexual desire, sexuality, coronary artery disease]
Year: 2017
