2023 journal article
Evaluation of saffron extract bioactivities relevant to skin resilience
JOURNAL OF HERBAL MEDICINE, 37.
author keywords: Tyrosinase; Collagenase; Collagen; Hyaluronic acid; Antioxidant activity; Crocus sativus
UN Sustainable Development Goal Categories
3. Good Health and Well-being
(Web of Science)
Source: Web Of Science
Added: February 20, 2023
Saffron, Crocus sativus L, is a perennial spice herb. It has been extensively studied for its antioxidant, antidepressant, and anti-inflammatory properties, and has recently gained new interest for use in high-end cosmetics. The present work aims to elucidate the skin-protective properties of saffron in human dermal fibroblasts. The skin-protective properties of saffron extract were evaluated in terms of tyrosinase and collagenase inhibition activities, antioxidant activity in mouse macrophage cells, collagen synthesis and hyaluronic acid synthesis and cell migration activity in primary dermal fibroblast normal human neonatal cells (HDFn). Saffron's main phytoactive constituents - crocins, picrocrocin, safranal, and crocetin - were quantified by LC-MS at 91.0, 61.5, 3.6, and 1.9 mg/g, respectively. Saffron extract inhibited tyrosinase and collagenase with IC50 0.78 mg/mL and 0.1 mg/mL, respectively. Saffron extracts (100–200 μg/mg) suppressed reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide generation in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cells and promoted collagen and hyaluronic acid synthesis in HDFn. Saffron extract at 25 μg/mg significantly promoted migration of HDFn cells (wound healing capacity) compared to control (no treatment). The findings highlighted the potential benefits of saffron extract relevant to skin resilience.