Saffron extract 0.3% | Crocus sativus

Properties: The list of saffron’s traditional uses is very wide. Many of them have been confirmed in scientific research. There have also been reports of completely new possibilities of supplementing with saffron. Its ability to regulate the metabolism of serotonin and dopamine results not only in a noticeable improvement in mood, but also in a decrease of appetite. Serotonin is responsible for  the feeling of satiety. Thus, it limits the amount of food consumed, and also reduces the need for unhealthy snacking between meals. The tradition of consuming saffron to improve cognitive abilities also turned out to be rooted in the neurotransmitter’s balance – specifically acetylcholine, the availability of which is increased by saffron intake. The health-promoting properties of C. sativus are not limited to the central nervous system. Clinical studies have confirmed its positive effect on immunity, anti-inflammatory effects, as well as the ability to lower cholesterol and regulate blood pressure. Also, the mythical properties of saffron as an aphrodisiac turned out to be scientifically founded, as it affects the balance of sex hormones.

Saffron extract shows strong antioxidant effects due to the content of many unique ingredients. By reducing the influence of free oxygen radicals, it slows down the photoaging processes of the skin while brightening its discoloration and improving color. In addition, it increases the level of hydration, effectively reducing moisture loss. As a result, the skin simply looks better. Cosmetics containing saffron extract are especially recommended in anti-aging skin care.

Occurrence: Crocus sativus is a perennial plant from the Iridaceae family. It probably comes from Asia Minor or from Southeast Europe. It has been known to mankind for over 3000 years. It was mentioned in the ancient Egyptian Ebers Papyrus about medicine (dated around 1555 BC), and even in the Bible (in the Song of Songs). In ancient Egypt, Persia and Assyria, it was a highly valued aphrodisiac, so strong that it was only recommended for young men. Some people believed that it is extremely effective in stimulating the female libido too. In medieval Europe, it was used to treat various diseases: scarlet fever, smallpox, asthma, cancer, respiratory infections, menstrual disorders, infantile colic and arthritis.

Biochemistry: Saffron contains numerous biologically active compounds. These include crocin and crocetin – substances from the group of carotenoids – and safranal, safranol, picrocrocin, zeaxanthin, lycopene, and kaempferol. It is also a source of minerals: magnesium, manganese, calcium, zinc, iron and potassium as well as vitamins C, B2, B3, B6 and B9.

Fun fact: Saffron is the most expensive spice in the world. It requires manual harvesting since only the flower’s female parts – pistils – can be used. Just 1 kilogram of saffron can cost up to 3000 EUR. To get this amount, pistils from 150-250 thousand flowers must be collected. They would cover the area of 3-5 football fields.