# Crocetin

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/crocetin
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-20
**Evidence Score:** 6 / 10
**Category:** Compound
**Also Known As:** trans-Crocetin, 8,8'-diapocarotene-8,8'-dioic acid, Saffron carotenoid, Crocin aglycone, Dicarboxylic carotenoid, Kesar extract compound, Zafferano pigment

## Overview

Crocetin is a carotenoid dicarboxylic acid derived from saffron that acts as the primary bioactive compound responsible for saffron's therapeutic effects. It supports [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) by improving microcirculation and reducing [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) through its antioxidant properties.

## Health Benefits

[{"benefit": "Supports cardiac recovery after acute myocardial infarction by improving ST-segment resolution.", "evidence_quality": "Based on one double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial (n=90) where 46.7% of the crocetin group achieved this outcome versus 20% in the placebo group [2]."}, {"benefit": "May reduce liver cell death (apoptosis) following severe blood loss (hemorrhagic shock).", "evidence_quality": "Based on a preclinical study in a rat model, which showed reduced cytosolic cytochrome c and caspase-3 [1]."}, {"benefit": "May protect heart cells from sepsis-induced dysfunction by enhancing [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) enzymes.", "evidence_quality": "Based on an in-vitro study using H9c2 cells, which showed upregulation of SOD and GSH-Px [3]."}, {"benefit": "May inhibit the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells, a factor in atherosclerosis.", "evidence_quality": "Based on preclinical research showing downregulation of cyclin D1 and upregulation of p27kip1 [3]."}, {"benefit": "May protect mitochondria from damage and fragmentation under cellular stress.", "evidence_quality": "Based on preclinical and in-vitro studies in models of hemorrhagic shock and sepsis [1, 3]."}]

## Mechanism of Action

Crocetin enhances oxygen diffusion through tissues by reducing blood viscosity and improving erythrocyte deformability. It activates the Nrf2 [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) pathway while inhibiting NF-κB [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) signaling. The compound also modulates calcium channels and protects [mitochondrial function](/ingredients/condition/energy) through its direct radical-scavenging activity.

## Clinical Summary

One double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial (n=90) demonstrated that crocetin significantly improved ST-segment resolution after acute myocardial infarction, with 46.7% of participants achieving this outcome versus 20% in the placebo group. The evidence base remains limited with only this single cardiac study available. Additional preclinical research suggests benefits for [memory](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) and neuroprotection, but human clinical data is lacking for these applications.

## Nutritional Profile

Crocetin (C₂₀H₂₄O₄, molecular weight 328.4 g/mol) is a naturally occurring apocarotenoid dicarboxylic acid, not a conventional nutrient with macronutrient or micronutrient content. It is the aglycone (sugar-free) form of crocin, the primary pigment of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) stigmas and gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides) fruit. Key bioactive characteristics: (1) Structure — a 20-carbon conjugated polyene chain with seven trans-double bonds and terminal carboxylic acid groups, classifying it as a diapocarotenoid; (2) Natural concentration — saffron stigmas contain approximately 6–16% crocins (by dry weight), which upon hydrolysis yield crocetin; gardenia fruit yields comparable crocin levels; (3) Bioavailability — crocetin is significantly more bioavailable than its parent glycoside crocin due to its smaller molecular size and moderate lipophilicity (log P ~2.3); oral administration in humans shows rapid absorption with peak plasma concentrations (Cmax) typically reached within 1–2 hours; in a pharmacokinetic study, oral crocetin at 22.5 mg achieved a Cmax of approximately 100–200 ng/mL; it is absorbed via passive transcellular diffusion across intestinal epithelium; (4) Key bioactive properties — potent [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) (quenches singlet oxygen and scavenges free radicals owing to its extended conjugated double-bond system), [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) activity (inhibits NF-κB signaling and reduces TNF-α, IL-6 production), and carotenoid-like [photoprotect](/ingredients/condition/skin-health)ive properties; (5) Typical supplemental/research doses — 7.5 mg to 22.5 mg per day in human clinical trials (e.g., the cardiac recovery trial used doses in this range); (6) No appreciable vitamin, mineral, fiber, or protein content as it is a single purified phytochemical compound; (7) Stability notes — crocetin is sensitive to light, heat, and oxidation due to its polyene chain; formulations often require protection from UV exposure and may use microencapsulation to enhance stability; (8) [Metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) — undergoes glucuronidation in the liver, with mono- and di-glucuronide conjugates identified as primary metabolites in human plasma; elimination half-life is approximately 6–7 hours.

## Dosage & Preparation

In a clinical trial for acute myocardial infarction, the dosage used was 0.5 mg/kg of intravenous trans sodium crocetinate administered pre-procedure, followed by 7.5 mg oral crocetin tablets daily for three days. Standardized dosage ranges for consumer powders or extracts have not been established in clinical research. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Crocetin appears generally well-tolerated based on limited clinical data, with no serious adverse effects reported in the available trial. It may theoretically interact with anticoagulant medications due to its blood-thinning properties, though specific interactions have not been documented. Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. Individuals with bleeding disorders should exercise caution when considering crocetin supplementation.

## Scientific Research

The primary clinical evidence for crocetin comes from a single double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial in 90 patients with acute myocardial infarction, which found that a crocetin derivative significantly improved ST-segment resolution (PMCID: PMC12872059, PMID: 41647447). Most other available evidence is preclinical, including a rat model of hemorrhagic shock that demonstrated improved survival and reduced hepatic apoptosis (PMID: 21224437). No meta-analyses on crocetin were identified in the research.

## Historical & Cultural Context

As a key component of saffron, crocetin has been part of traditional Asian medicine for a long period. However, the provided research does not specify its use within particular systems, such as Traditional Chinese or Persian medicine, or the exact historical duration.

## Synergistic Combinations

Crocin, Safranal, Picrocrocin

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the effective dosage of crocetin for heart health?

The clinical trial showing cardiac benefits used crocetin derived from saffron extract, though the exact crocetin dosage was not specified. Typical saffron supplements contain 0.3-3mg of crocetin per dose.

### How long does crocetin take to show cardiovascular effects?

In the myocardial infarction study, crocetin's effects on ST-segment resolution were measured after the acute treatment period. The timeline for cardiovascular benefits in healthy individuals has not been established.

### Can crocetin be taken with blood pressure medications?

No specific interactions between crocetin and blood pressure medications have been studied. However, crocetin may have mild blood-thinning effects, so consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended before combining with cardiovascular medications.

### Is crocetin the same as crocin from saffron?

No, crocetin and crocin are related but different compounds. Crocin is a glycoside ester of crocetin, while crocetin is the aglycone form that appears to be the primary bioactive component.

### What foods naturally contain crocetin?

Crocetin is primarily found in saffron (Crocus sativus) stigmas, which are the most concentrated natural source. Small amounts may be present in gardenia fruit, but saffron remains the predominant dietary source.

### What does the research show about crocetin's effects on heart attack recovery?

Clinical evidence suggests crocetin may accelerate cardiac recovery after myocardial infarction, with one double-blind randomized trial (n=90) showing that 46.7% of crocetin recipients achieved ST-segment resolution compared to only 20% in the placebo group. ST-segment resolution is an important marker of improved blood flow and reduced heart muscle damage following a heart attack. However, this benefit has been demonstrated primarily in a single trial, indicating that more research is needed to confirm these findings across larger populations.

### Who is most likely to benefit from crocetin supplementation?

Individuals with cardiovascular concerns—particularly those recovering from acute coronary events or at risk for myocardial infarction—appear to be the primary candidates for crocetin supplementation based on current evidence. People with compromised blood flow or tissue oxygenation issues may also potentially benefit from its oxygen-carrying properties. Anyone considering crocetin for heart health should consult with a cardiologist to determine if it is appropriate for their specific condition.

### Does crocetin have protective effects on organs beyond the heart?

Emerging research suggests crocetin may reduce liver cell death (apoptosis) following severe blood loss and hemorrhagic shock, indicating potential organ-protective applications beyond cardiovascular support. This hepatoprotective mechanism may relate to crocetin's ability to improve oxygen transport and reduce ischemic injury in tissues. However, evidence in this area remains limited and requires further clinical validation to establish clinical utility in trauma or critical care settings.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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