28 Mar 2017
Saffron, the most expensive spice from the Middle East, is also well-known for its neuropsychological effects, apart from its culinary uses. Now, researchers from Savitribai Phule Pune University and University of Kansas Medical Centre have studied the potential of Safranal, a chemical present in saffron, for its anti-inflammatory and cancer fighting abilities. When tested on pancreatic cancer cells, Safranal was found to act against the enzyme COX-2, responsible for inflammation and pain and also as an antiproliferative agent that stops the spread of malignant cells inside the body. This research opens up another therapeutic application of this well-known spice, and thereby adding another weapon to our arsenal to fight cancer.