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This systematic review and meta-analysis examined 12 randomized controlled trials involving 570 participants to assess whether saffron and its component crocin affect blood sugar control. The analysis found that saffron and crocin were associated with lower fasting blood glucose levels (reduced by 16.16 mg/dL on average) and improved insulin resistance scores, but the effect on long-term glycemic control measured by HbA1c was uncertain, showing a trend toward reduction that was not statistically significant. The studies included diverse populations such as adults with diabetes, metabolic syndrome, or coronary artery disease, and adolescents with obesity and prediabetes.
Why it matters
If confirmed by larger, well-designed trials, saffron or crocin could potentially serve as accessible dietary supplements to help manage blood sugar levels in people with diabetes or metabolic dysfunction. However, the current evidence is insufficient to make clinical recommendations due to variability in study populations, preparation methods, and the lack of clear effects on HbA1c, which is the gold standard for assessing long-term glucose control.
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⚠️ Preprint – Noch nicht peer-reviewed
Dieser Artikel wurde noch nicht von unabhängigen Experten begutachtet. Die Ergebnisse sind vorläufig und sollten mit Vorsicht interpretiert werden.
Background: Saffron and its constituent crocin have been investigated as adjuncts for metabolic dysfunction. Their effects on longer-term glycemic exposure and fasting indices may differ. Objectives: To assess the effects of saffron and its constituents on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting glucose, and insulin resistance. Search methods: We searched PubMed Central on June 11, 2025, and PubMed on October 5, 2025. Selection criteria: Randomized controlled trials in humans comparing affron or its constituents with a control for at least four weeks and reporting a relevant glycemic outcome were eligible. Comparisons were selected to isolate the effect of saffron or crocin. Data collection and analysis: We synthesized continuous outcomes as mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), using inverse-variance random-effects models. HbA1c was the primary outcome. Fasting glucose and the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were secondary outcomes. Main results: Twelve trials contributed 570 participants to the analyzed comparisons. Populations included adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome or coronary artery disease, and adolescents with obesity and prediabetes. Seven trials (391 participants) reported HbA1c: the pooled MD was -0.25 percentage points (95% CI -0.58 to 0.08; I2 = 61%). Fasting glucose was lower with saffron or crocin across 12 trials (570 participants; MD -16.16 mg/dL, 95% CI -27.02 to -5.31; I2 = 74%). Five trials (212 participants) contributed to HOMA-IR (MD -1.19, 95% CI -2.25 to -0.12; I2 = 80%). Fixed-effect sensitivity analyses gave smaller estimates across the three outcomes. Authors’ conclusions: Saffron and crocin were associated with lower fasting glucose and HOMA-IR, whereas the HbA1c estimate remained compatible with both a reduction and little difference. Variation in populations, preparations, and trial sizes limits interpretation of the average effects. Larger trials with standardized preparations and adequate follow-up are needed to establish the persistence and clinical relevance of these findings. Funding: None