Crocus sativus improves cognitive functions and reduces anxiety-like behavior in aged rats exposed to chronic cold temperature-induced stress
Vijayan Priya, Faraz Ahmad · 2026
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Description
Vijayan Priya and Faraz Ahmad tested saffron extract as a shield for the aging brain under long cold stress. Daily cold exposure can disturb memory and raise anxiety, yet few countermeasures exist. Their 2026 study first profiled the extract with several lab methods, confirming its known active parts, crocin and safranal, plus rich plant compounds and strong antioxidant power. Aged rats then endured half an hour at four degrees daily for four weeks.
Cold-stressed rats showed weaker memory and stronger anxiety-like behavior across mazes and exploration tests. Rats given saffron fared better: they calmed in the anxiety tests, alternated more sharply in a memory maze, and recognized new objects more reliably. They also mark the boundary of the work: behavior improved, but the chemical steps inside the brain behind the rescue were not traced. Follow-up studies must supply that mechanism before saffron is more than a promising lead.
Catalog record
| CREATOR | Vijayan Priya, Faraz Ahmad |
|---|---|
| YEAR | 2026 |
| COLLECTION | PAPERS |
| FORMAT | TXT |
| FILE SIZE | 46816 |
| LICENSE | https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 |
| RIGHTS | CC BY |
| SOURCE | Europe PMC |