Saffron Supplement for Eye Health

Affron Eye® is an extract of saffron with benefits for eye health. But before you take saffron for eye health, you need to understand what it is. Let’s take a closer look at saffron supplements for eyes.

What is Affron Eye®?

Affron Eye® is formulated from an extract of saffron obtained from the crocus flower, known scientifically as Crocus sativus. Though saffron is most commonly recognized as a culinary spice used in dishes around the world for thousands of years, its therapeutic properties are lesser known.

Yet, traditional Ayurvedic and Persian systems of medicine have long used Crocus sativus for its health properties, attributes which have been confirmed in numerous studies on the plant.

In recent years, scientists have succeeded in isolating extracts with a high content of active substances. Such research has also led to the formulation of our supplement that’s based on a saffron extract.

Our Affron Eye® supplement is formulated from a high-quality saffron extract standardized to 3% crocin. It can also be taken alongside our formulation Macula Plus, also available to buy at Supersmart.

Where does crocus sativus stigma extract come from?

A crocin supplement is produced from the crocus sativus flower; it's also known as saffron crocus.

Saffron originated in Greece, where the first known record of its cultivation occurred. However, today, the Affron saffron supplement ingredients can be sourced from a number of other countries, such as India, Morocco and Iran. And while the United States does produce some saffron, most of it is imported.

What benefits are associated with taking saffron for eye health?

Is saffron good for the eyes? Looking at the available research on Affron saffron extract benefits, it's easy to see why this particular natural spice is used to support eye health.

Saffron has an unusually complex composition; scientists have discovered that it contains more than 100 compounds, including active principles, such as carotenoids. Known for their antioxidant potency, these compounds are orange, yellow and red and are indeed responsible for saffron’s orange-red color.

Antioxidants — as they relate to eye health — have long been researched, and have been shown to provide benefits for a range of eye problems, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

For years, scientists have been increasingly interested in saffron's benefits for eyes and its potential for maintaining visual health. Of particular interest are two carotenoids called crocin and crocetin, which are naturally present in the Crocus sativus plant from which saffron is obtained.

These molecules have been shown in studies to have antioxidant potency and an anti-apoptotic effect. They also support the antioxidant defenses of retinal photoreceptors, according to some research.

Additional studies show that saffron can protect the retina from the daily, free radical-generated oxidative damage caused by exposure to high light levels and smoking. Other saffron vision benefits include an increased blood flow to the retina and choroid, according to some clinical trials.

Potential Benefits of Saffron for Macular Degeneration

So, why would someone take saffron for eye health? Saffron benefits for eyes go beyond the basics we just discussed; there's evidence that suggests saffron supplements may combat macular degeneration.

In addition to the crocus sativus health benefits that have already been discussed, research has also been done on saffron as it relates specifically to macular degeneration.

With its high antioxidant activity, saffron extract may offer protection against age-related macular degeneration, one of the most common eye problems that develops with age.

This silent, painless condition is characterized by a gradual deterioration of the central part of the retina, which ceases to function correctly. It is a major cause of loss of vision, primarily among individuals over the age of 60, and can potentially lead to complete blindness. People suffering from AMD find it increasingly difficult to carry out daily functions, such as reading or driving.

Studies show saffron for age-related macular degeneration may be beneficial for some people.

Side effects of Taking Affron Eye®

If you want the best saffron supplement for macular degeneration, it's important that you do your research first. While taking saffron supplements for eyes is suitable for most people, there's always a chance of unwanted side effects, depending on your current overall health and condition.

That’s why, before you start taking saffron for eyes, you should discuss it with your doctor. They will look for potential interactions between Affron Eye® and any other supplements or prescriptions you’re taking.

Additionally, Affron saffron is designed for healthy adults. So if you suffer from any underlying conditions, you’ll need to talk to your physician before you start taking a saffron supplement.

Saffron supplements for eye health have also not been studied for use in pregnant or nursing women. Until more research is done, it's best to avoid saffron supplements until you’re done nursing.

More studies will be performed about the safety of taking eye vitamins with saffron. Until then, you should follow the advice of your doctor. Additionally, if you have any unusual side effects after you start taking saffron for eyesight, you should cease supplementation immediately and talk to your physician.

Only after the supplement has been cleared by your doctor should you resume taking saffron for AMD.