Wonders of “Yellow Gold” in Oral Lichen Planus

Abstract

Crocus sativus, also known as "yellow gold," is a plant that is cultivated in countries such as Iran, India, and Greece. It is made up of dried red stigma and contains over 150 volatile compounds that are responsible for its aroma, including terpenes, terpene alcohol, and their esters. Two of its components, picrocrocin and safranal, contribute to its bitter taste and hay-like fragrance. This plant has several medicinal properties, including antioxidant, anti-tumorogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antidepressant effects, which make it effective in managing Oral Lichen Planus (OLP). A search of scientific journals was conducted to identify relevant articles on the potential use of crocus sativus in treating OLP. The literature suggests that crocus sativus can be used to successfully treat OLP, but more clinical studies are needed to establish its efficacy. The pharmacological properties of saffron, especially its crocin and safranal components, make it a potential therapeutic agent for various diseases, including cancer and oxidative stress. However, further laboratory-based research and clinical trials are needed to determine the precise mechanisms of action and establish its role as a novel therapeutic agent in OLP