Saffron: A Prized Herb with Therapeutic Potential Against Diabetes

The exponential rise in the incidence of diabetes mellitus worldwide is driving the current search for antidiabetic phyto-therapeutics as cheaper and safer alternative/adjunct to existing chemical/synthetic drugs. Based on folk and traditional medicine, a number of target plants have been identified. Amongst these, saffron has been established as a plant with potential ‘antidiabetic’ properties. Its bioactive compounds, namely, crocin, crocetin and safranal have the capacity to improve the sensitivity as well as the production of insulin for maintenance of hypoglycemic levels via the AMPK/ACC and AKT kinase-mediated pathways. These bioactive compounds can also overcome oxidative stress-mediated tissue damages and ameliorate patho-physiological conditions associated with diabetes. The different studies that have demonstrated these antidiabetic properties of saffron, its extracts and bioactive compounds in in-vivo and in-vitro models have been reviewed in this chapter. The aim is to collate available information for the future development of safe and efficacious nutraceuticals, dietary supplements and therapeutics for use against diabetes.