Saffron (Crocus sativus L.): A Promising Phytochemical Source for Cancer Prevention and Treatment

Abstract

Saffron, scientifically named Crocus sativus L., is a medicinal plant with high anti-cancer activity. Its distinct components like crocin, crocetin, safranal and others showed selective cytotoxicity on cancerous but not normal cells without inducing any toxicity like other standard anti-cancer agents. Saffron and its constituents are reported to suppress the growth of cancer cells, induce apoptosis, inhibit metastasis and angiogenesis. This has been supported by preclinical studies while in some human clinical trials, anticancer property of saffron has been confirmed along with the safe dosage. The review is an extensive look into the ability of different parts of C.sativus plant in fighting against cancer