The Impact of Saffron Crocin on Clinical and Psychological Complications of Opioid Substance Withdrawal Syndrome: A Systematic Review of in vivo and clinical trial studies

Mitra  Tavakolizadeh; Ali  Akbari; Akram  Bakhtiari; Sina Sabeti  Bilondi; Vida  Alikhani

doi:10.18502/jabs.v14i3.16354

Mitra Tavakolizadeh Clinical Research Development Unit, Bohlool Hospital, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
Ali Akbari Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
Akram Bakhtiari Faculty of Medicine, Clinical Research Development Unit, Bohlool Hospital, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
Sina Sabeti Bilondi Clinical Research Development Unit, Bohlool Hospital, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
Vida Alikhani Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jabs.v14i3.16354

Keywords: Crocin, Substance Withdrawal Syndrome, Complications, Psychological Phenomena, Systematic Review

Abstract

Background & Objectives: Drug addiction constitutes a global issue associated with severe personal, economic, social, and health problems. Saffron, an herbal medicine, has demonstrated potential therapeutic applications for mental and physical symptoms. This review assesses the efficacy of saffron crocin in managing the clinical and psychological complications of opioid substance withdrawal syndrome(OWS).

Materials & Methods: The research methodology entailed a comprehensive literature review spanning from 2010 to 2023, utilizing databases such as Scopus, PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. The search focused on the impact of saffron crocin on clinical and psychological complications of OWS. Human randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and animal studies published in English were included for data synthesis. Subsequently, information was collated based on the following parameters: study author, number of studies, dosage, control group, duration, outcome criteria, and primary outcomes.

Results: Eight articles were analyzed, demonstrating the efficacy of saffron and crocin in treating OWS by ameliorating withdrawal symptoms and improving laboratory indicators.

Conclusion: While several RCTs support the effectiveness of saffron crocin in alleviating OWS symptoms, further rigorous studies are warranted to corroborate these findings.