Test findings suggest the spice reverses age-related macular degeneration (AMD) the most common cause of blindness in old people. "Patients' vision improved after taking the saffron pill," said Professor Silvia Bisti, of the University of Sydney, who carried out the research.

"When they were tested with traditional eye charts, a number of them could read one or two lines smaller than before, while others reported they could read newspapers and books again."

The study

In tests carried out in Italy  -  where saffron is widely cultivated  -  pensioners with AMD were given a daily saffron pill for three months followed by a dummy drug for a further three months. A second group took the supplements in the reverse order. Twenty-five took part in all.

"All patients experienced improvements in their vision while taking the saffron pill," Professor Bisti said. "But when they stopped taking it, the effect quickly disappeared." The finding is timely as it is thought the number of AMD sufferers will treble in the next 25 years as the population ages.

How does AMD proceed?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease associated with ageing that gradually destroys sharp, central vision. Central vision is needed for seeing objects clearly and for common daily tasks such as reading and driving.

AMD affects the macula, the part of the eye that allows you to see fine detail. AMD causes no pain.

In some cases, AMD advances so slowly that people notice little change in their vision. In others, the disease progresses faster and may lead to a loss of vision in both eyes. AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in people 60 years of age and older.

There are few treatments for the condition  -  and no cure.

Saffron remedy

Saffron has actually been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat a range of ailments, though Professor Bisti is the first to look at its effects on eyesight. She added, "The chemistry of saffron is quite complex. It is well-known as an anti-oxidant but no one has explored its effects on eyesight before."

She believes saffron, which is widely used in Spanish and Indian cooking, affects the amount of fat stored by the eye, making vision cells 'tougher and more resilient'.

Saffron is used in traditional medicine for treating conditions including cancerous tumours and depression. The spice also has properties which encourage oxygen flow and prevents cell death.

Researchers are now hoping to discover the ideal dosage. They will also look at saffron's ability to treat genetic eye diseases that can cause life-long blindness.

Pic: gökçe --