Advanced Orthomolecular Research3900 - 12 Street NE, Calgary, AB Canada T2E 8H9 Phone: 1-800-387-0177

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Saffron

MAIN FEATURES• Standardized pure saffron extract

• A natural neurotransmitter booster

• Supports healthy mood balance

• Helps manage stress

COMPLEMENTARY PRODUCTS

PRODUCT DESCRIPTIONWith over 150 identified compounds in this highly prized herb, Saffron has widespread traditional health-related uses, from reducing inflammation to PMS relief to digestive support. The growing body of research supporting saffron is confirming its therapeutic role in improving mood, balancing homocysteine levels, anxiety and more. It is a natural support for neurotransmitters, which modulate various functions including sleep and mood. Studies to date support its effective role in the management of depressive symptoms, with mechanisms of action thought to be similar to prescription antidepressants. Saffron has also been found to have GABA-like effects, which assists in relieving feelings of anxiety. Saffron has been clinically proven to help manage stress while supporting mood balance, and scientific studies continue to reveal its health-related advantages.

AOR ADVANTAGESaffron must be handpicked under particular conditions, leading to its status as one of the most luxurious and expensive herbs. As a result, many “saffron” products are adulterated with other cheaper herbs, but AOR’s saffron is a pure, standardized extract, sourced from Iran, and derived from a proprietary process that extracts the main active compounds of the stigma of saffron flowers without causing oxidative damage.

RESEARCHDepression: In a systematic review of the current scientific evidence, 12 randomized controlled trials were evaluated for the effects of saffron on depression, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), sexual dysfunction and weight loss. These studies found a significantly positive effect of saffron, and an equal effect compared to antidepressant drugs with fewer side effects. (Hausenblas et al. J Integr Med. 2015 Jul; 13(4): 231-40).

Postpartum depression: A double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 60 new mothers with mild-to-moderate postpartum depression were randomized to receive 15 mg twice daily of saffron or placebo. After eight weeks of treatment, the women given saffron had significantly decreased depression scores compared to the placebo group. Ninety-six percent of the saffron group achieved remission compared to only forty-three percent of the placebo group. (Kashani L et al. Pharmacopsychiatry. 2017 Mar; 50(2): 64-68).

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Why Is Saffron so Valuable?Saffron is the most expensive spice in the world, fetching upwards of 45,000 per kilo sometimes exceeding the price of gold. This is because the flowers of the Crocus sativus, which only blooms in the fall, must be harvested by hand, and it takes almost 200,000 flowers to get 80 grams a day. Then, the three stigmas of each flower must be manually separated and dried. Over the past millennia, saffron has been used as a traditional remedy for rheumatism and a painkiller in addition to as a fragrant cooking spice and a dye.

Active Constituents There are three main components identified in saffron that have been linked to saffron’s anti-inflammatory, antitumour, antioxidant, and antidepressant activities: crocetin, crocins, and safranal. However, there are multiple other compounds in the stigmas of saffron that contribute to its health and nutritional benefits including flavonoids, carotenoids, anthocyanins, vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients.

• Crocin The activities of crocin have been linked to benefits for memory and cognition, but also for mood. Crocin may actually inhibit the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, leading to a reduction in depressive symptoms

• Crocetin A unique carotenoid that can cross the blood-brain barrier and reach the central nervous system. Research suggests that crocetin may actually prevent the demyelination and degeneration of nerve cells. It may also reduce exercise-induced fatigue and support cardiovascular function by reducing cardiac damage and damage caused by high blood pressure

• Safranal Safranal is most commonly known for its antioxidant effects, and reducing oxidative damage in neurons. Additionally, safranal promotes antidepressant effects, anticonvulsant actions, and as shown in one study, can even help promote satiety by reducing snacking behaviour

Vegan Gluten FreeNon-GMO

Medicinal ingredients Per 1 capsuleCrocus sativus extract (2% safranal) 15 mg

DiscussionPRO Saffron provides a source of antioxidants for themaintenance of eye health.

NPN: 80074384

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