Objective:

To evaluate the efficacy of crocin in alleviating depressive symptoms and its effective t in biomarkers in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) through a meta-analysis of available clinical trials.

Background:

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory neurodegenerative disease characterized by oxidative stress and inflammation. Saffron, containing the active constituent crocin, has shown potential in managing neurodegenerative disorders. However, evidence on crocin's efficacy in treating depression specifically in MS patients remains limited.

Design/Methods:

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, Ovid, and Scopus. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effects of crocin on depression in MS patients. Data were extracted and pooled as standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results:

This systematic review ncluding four studies with 105 participants, found no significant difference in depressive symptoms between the crocin and placebo groups (SMD = -0.83, 95% CI: [-2.41, 0.75], P = 0.30). However, crocin treatment significantly increased Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) compared to placebo (SMD = 0.66, 95% CI: [0.26, 1.07], P = 0.001). While Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels did not show a significant difference between groups (SMD = -0.31, 95% CI: [-0.86, 0.25], P = 0.32).

Conclusions:

This meta-analysis suggests that crocin may not be effective for treating depression in MS patients, calling for further research with larger and more diverse populations. Future studies should also explore potential biomarkers associated with crocin's effects on depression and oxidative stress in MS patients.