Effects of Crocins in the Management of Neurodegenerative Pathologies: A Review

Flavonoids, in particular crocins (active compounds of Crocus and Gardenia ), have been extensively used in traditional medicine and been proposed to be effective in the management of various diseases, including neurodegenerative problems. Antiepileptic and anti-Alzheimer effects of crocins have been demonstrated. The efficacy of crocins in the treatment of cerebral ischemia and traumatic brain injury was also confirmed in experimental animal studies. Treatment with crocins increased dopamine levels in the brain of an experimental model of Parkinson’s disease. In addition, crocins modulate the opioid system and decrease the withdrawal syndrome. The review of the respective publications indicates that crocins can be considered effective auxiliary agents in the management of neurobiological diseases, mostly due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.