A new study on the aphrodisiac properties of saffron indicates that the chemical crocin is responsible for the libido-boosting power of this spice. Previous research showed that saffron could increase sexual behaviors in lab studies, although the exact chemical responsible was not known (and safranal was suspected). This study provides good evidence that the yellow carotenoid pigment crocin is the enhancing substance.

Like previous studies, the 2007 report found that male mice given crocin had an increase in erections, mounting attempts and ejaculation (intromission).

Unlike previous studies, the role of 2 major saffron chemicals (crocin and safranal) was investigated. It was shown that crocin had major effects on sexual behavior, while safranal had essentially none.

Molecular diagram of Crocin

Crocin is a carotenoid pigment; other types of carotenoids are found in carrots, tomatoes, corn, squash and other plants. The only other significant source of this crocin I came across is in the fruits of Gardenia jasminoides, which is used in traditional Chinese medicine.

In India, Crocin is the name for an over-the-counter pain reliever containing paracetamol. This type of Crocin has no relation to the ingredient in saffron, and there is no evidence that it has any aphrodisiac properties.

Links

• Aphrodisiology's Saffron Page (in need of edits after this new research.)
• PMID 17962007