Results from a study that examined the effects of saffron on the retina's ability to respond to light in patients with mild to moderate age-related macular degeneration (AMD) were recently published in BMJ Open Ophthalmology.
Despite it's hefty price tag, saffron, which is a powerful antioxidant, is a popular dietary supplement used for a wide range of ailments including the improvement of cognitive function, mood booster and appetite suppressant. Saffron acts by reducing oxidative damage thereby preserving retinal function.
Researchers sought to build upon a previous clinical trial that evaluated the effect of three-months saffron supplementation by extending the study period to twelve months. The 3-month study demonstrated saffron's ability to slow the progression of mild-to-moderate AMD.
The results from the twelve month study mirrored the results from the three month study. In addition to revealing saffron's ability to preserve retinal function, it also showed that saffron supplementation resulted in a more marked effect on response density (indicator of photoreceptor survival). Researchers also noted that there wasn't any difference in response between participants who supplemented with an AREDS formula and those who did not supplement with an AREDS formula.
Researchers stress that additional studies are needed to further examine saffron's effect on AMD.
