April 4, 2011 
Research has shown that saffron, which colors soup, stew and rice with a characteristic yellow color, helps with preserving vision…
The results of the experts at the University of Sydney have shown that this herb reduces the effect of age related macular degeneration of the eye, which is the most common cause of blindness in the elderly.
Research in Italy, where the saffron is widely cultivated;, included 25 retirees with age-related macular degeneration who took the pill with saffron over a period of three months. The following three months they took placebo. The second group also took both pills, but in reverse.
“All patients experienced improvement of vision while taking the pill with saffron, but when they stop taking it, the effect quickly disappeared,” commented Professor Silvia Bisti from the University of Sydney.
Chemical effects of saffron are quite complex. It is known for its antioxidant properties, but none has so far not investigated its effects on vision.
The leader of the research Bisti believes saffron affects the amount of fat stored in the eye, causing cells to be “more resilient and stronger.”
This is a spice used in traditional medicine for cancerous tumors and depression because its properties support the flow of oxygen and prevent cell death.
The next step of the researchers is to establish an ideal dose.
Known for its characteristic taste, “the king of spices” saffron is used as an addition to soups, rice, fish stews, vegetable soups or dishes based on seafood. It is also known as the most expensive spice in the world because it has a short season of bloom (just three weeks a year), and the process of production of spices is difficult.
Taken from: www.ordinacija.hr