Insights into phytochemistry and bioactive potential of saffron (Crocus sativus L) petal

Abstract

The principal by-product of saffron processing, which is produced at a large level but has little market value, is saffron petals. Numerous constituents with profound bioactive potential, including safranal, crocin, picrocin, anthocyanins, glycosides, alkaloids, and kaempferol, are present in saffron petals. Saffron petal is an appropriate substitute for a variety of uses because it is less expensive and produced in greater quantities than saffron stigma. In this review, many pharmaceutical characteristics of the saffron petal have been discussed, including its anti-bacterial, antifungal, antispasmodic, immunomodulatory, antidepressant, antinociceptive, hepatoprotective, renoprotective, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, and antioxidant activity. This review also provides insight into the pharmacological characteristics of saffron and its components along with the related mechanisms of action.