Saffron, its main derivatives, and their effects on the respiratory system

Abstract Saffron or Crocus sativus L. is an autumn-flowering perennial plant and its major derivatives are safranal, crocin, and crocetin. This plant and its derivatives are used in the treatment of various diseases. Bronchodilation was previously reported as one of the preventive effects of saffron and its derivatives on respiratory diseases. This chapter highlights the effects of saffron and its derivatives on respiratory disorders in animal and cellular models. The study results included in this chapter show that C. sativus and its derivatives have relaxing effects on different smooth muscles, especially tracheal smooth muscles, as well as preventive effects for respiratory diseases. The studies also detail the mechanisms used to enact these effects. The results from experimental studies of saffron prove that further clinical investigations are needed to take advantage of the multiple pharmacological effects of this plant for the treatment of respiratory disorders.