Introduction

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) has been treasured for centuries as a culinary spice, but recent scientific studies suggest it may also play a powerful role in supporting vision health. With bioactive compounds like crocin, crocetin, and safranal, saffron shows promise for protecting the retina against oxidative stress and age-related damage (1).

What Does the Research Say?

Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have examined saffron’s impact on vision:

• In early age-related macular degeneration (AMD), saffron supplementation (20–50 mg/day) improved visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and retinal function over just 3 months (1).
• In patients with glaucoma, crocin supplementation reduced intraocular pressure and improved retinal electrophysiology in short-term studies (2).
• A recent long-term trial confirmed saffron’s safety and efficacy in slowing AMD progression (3).

How Does Saffron Work?

Saffron appears to benefit the eyes through multiple mechanisms:

• Antioxidant activity: neutralizing free radicals in retinal tissue (1).
• Neuroprotection: shielding photoreceptor cells from apoptosis (4).
• Anti-inflammatory effects: reducing harmful retinal inflammation (1).
• Improved retinal blood flow: supporting oxygen and nutrient delivery (5).

Is Saffron Safe?

At doses of 20–50 mg/day, saffron has been shown to be well tolerated in clinical trials (1,3). Adverse effects are rare, but very high doses (grams daily) may cause side effects.

Conclusion

Saffron is emerging as a science-backed natural option for supporting vision, especially in age-related macular health. While not a replacement for medical care, saffron supplements may offer meaningful support as part of a holistic eye-care plan.