The first exploration of saffron in humans was published in 1998, establishing that saffron imparted in vivo antioxidant protection. Subsequently a 2004 intervention trial suggested saffron may have a role as an antidepressant. Since this time an explosion of human research has focused on saffron for a wide array of important clinical applications. To date, approximately 80 human intervention trials examine the role of saffron for use in depression, ADHD, autoimmune disease, neurodegenerative disease, metabolic syndrome, degenerative eye disease, sperm quality, and erectile function. The presentation will review studies in all of these realms, also showcasing situations where saffron has been safely combined with common prescription medications for the respective indications.
Learning objectives:
- Review botanical information of the herb, and historical progression of research to-date
- Develop working knowledge of the evidence- base as it pertains to clinical application of saffron
- Be aware of appropriate applications of the herb in a clinical setting, as well as appropriate dosage forms and dosing
- Develop working knowledge of available evidence pertaining to safety, as well as working knowledge of potential herb-drug interactions
CE Credits
CONO: Category A: General -1 credit
British Columbia: Category C- General-1.0 credit
AANP: General-0.75 credit; Pharmacy: 0.25 credit
OANP/OBNM: General-0.75 credit; Pharmacy: 0.25 credit
Dr Philip Rouchotas, MSc, ND
Dr Rouchotas practices at the Bolton Naturopathic Clinic in Bolton, Ontario. His areas of clinical focus include metabolic syndrome (overweight/ obesity, diabetes, cholesterol, hypertension), autoimmune concerns (arthritis, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis/eczema/acne), mental health concerns, and autism. Philip is also an Associate Professor with the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM), responsible for assimilation and delivery of the second year curriculum in Clinical Nutrition. He serves as the Editor-in-Chief of Integrated Healthcare Practitioners, a peer- reviewed journal reaching ND’s, MD’s, and DC’s across Canada. Philip graduated from CCNM in 2004, preceded by an honours undergraduate degree and Masters of Science degree, both from the University of Guelph in Nutritional Sciences.
