Effect of the Aqueous Saffron Extract (Crocus sativus L.) on Skeletal System in Fetus of Rats

Crocus sativus L., commonly known as saffron is used for different purposes such as an antispasmodic and expectorant. Recent studies have demonstrated that saffron extracts have antitumor, radical scavenger, hypolipidemic, anticonvulsant effects and it improves activity on learning and memory. The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of aqueous saffron extract on weight, length, macroscopic and microscopic skeletal malformation in fetuses of rats. Study was carried on 3 groups of female Wistar rats. Group1 was kept as control and received normal saline with equal volume of extract; Group 2 received saffron extract with 80mg/kg-IP on 10th and 11th day of gestation; Group 3 received saffron extract with 200mg/kg-IP on 10th and 11th day of gestation. Rats were dissected on day 20 of gestation, embryos harvested by cesarean section. The living status and weight and length of fetuses were detected. After examination for determination of gross malformations, fetuses were placed in alcohol and stained by Alizarin red-Alcian blue method; then evaluation was carried by stereomicroscope. Saffron extract at dose of 80 mg/kg significantly increased the weights and body-lengths of fetuses in compare with saline and extract at dose 200 mg/kg. Macroscopic and Microscopic studies did not show any skeletal abnormalities by two above doses of saffron. The results show short time administration of saffron aqueous extract does not cause malformation on skeletal system.