Neuroprotective Potency of Safranal Against Neurological Disorders

Curr Mol Med. 2023;23(9):952-959. doi: 10.2174/1566524023666221117104612.

Abstract

A great number of research has been focused on plants as a source of medicine against many diseases to overcome the many side effects of chemical drugs. Safranal, one of the main constituents of saffron [Crocus sativus], has a broad spectrum of pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiapoptotic effects. The present review elaborates on the current understanding of the neuroprotective effects of safranal. According to data published so far, safranal has the potential to exert neuroprotective effects in neurological disorders such as epilepsy, stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson, and Alzheimer's disease. Safranal could be considered a promising therapeutic agent in the future, although there is a great need for clinical trial studies.

Keywords: Safranal; anti-inflammatory; antioxidant; herbal medicine; neurological disorders; stroke.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cyclohexenes / pharmacology
  • Humans
  • Neuroprotective Agents* / pharmacology
  • Neuroprotective Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Plant Extracts / pharmacology
  • Stroke*
  • Terpenes / pharmacology
  • Terpenes / therapeutic use

Substances

  • safranal
  • Neuroprotective Agents
  • Terpenes
  • Cyclohexenes
  • Plant Extracts