Dose–Response Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of a De-Oiled Saffron Petal Fraction in Diabetic Neuropathic Pain
Keywords:
saffron petals, diabetic neuropathy, analgesia, inflammation, dose response, oxidative stressAbstract
Background: Diabetic neuropathic pain involves peripheral sensitisation, inflammatory activation and oxidative injury. Saffron petals are an underused botanical by-product containing potentially bioactive compounds.
Objective: To define the dose–response profile of a de-oiled saffron-petal fraction in experimental diabetic neuropathy.
Methods: Diabetes was induced in 72 rats and neuropathy confirmed four weeks later using mechanical and thermal testing. Animals were randomised to vehicle, three extract doses, pregabalin or non-diabetic control. Treatments continued for 21 days. Behavioural outcomes were measured serially, while sciatic-nerve oxidative markers, TNF-α, IL-1β and histomorphometry were assessed at study end.
Results: The 200 mg/kg dose produced the most consistent response, increasing mechanical withdrawal thresholds by 52% from pretreatment values and prolonging thermal withdrawal latency by 39%. The 400 mg/kg dose did not provide additional behavioural benefit. Compared with diabetic controls, the 200 mg/kg group showed lower malondialdehyde, higher glutathione and superoxide-dismutase activity, and reduced TNF-α and IL-1β concentrations. Histological scoring demonstrated less axonal degeneration and endoneurial oedema. No clinically meaningful changes in alanine aminotransferase, creatinine or body weight were observed across treatment groups.
Conclusion: A mid-range dose of the de-oiled saffron-petal fraction produced the best balance of analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in diabetic neuropathy. The non-linear dose response highlights the need for chemical standardisation and pharmacokinetic work before translational studies.
Publication format: research abstract. No full-text manuscript accompanies this record.
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