Blog title: What Is Affron Saffron Extract? A Plain-Language Guide to Standardized Saffron
Saffron is one of the most prized and expensive botanicals in the world, and lately it has been appearing in supplements as a standardized extract called Affron. If you have wondered what that actually means, this guide explains saffron, what “standardized extract” refers to, and how Affron appears in a product like Zinzino Viva+. This is an ingredient explainer, and no health claims are made for saffron here.
Saffron is a spice harvested from the stigmas, the tiny thread-like parts, of the Crocus sativus flower. Each flower yields only a few, and they are picked and processed by hand, which is why saffron is so costly by weight. It has been used in cooking and traditional practices for centuries. In supplements, it usually appears as a concentrated extract rather than the whole spice.
This is the key concept. A standardized extract is processed so that a specific natural component is present at a consistent, measured level in every batch, rather than varying like raw plant material does. It is a description of manufacturing consistency, not a claim about any effect.
Affron is a patented, standardized extract of Spanish saffron stigmas (Crocus sativus L.). Described factually, from the product information: it is standardized to at least 3.5% of a component group the manufacturer calls Lepticrosalides, with the two main naturally occurring compounds being safranal and crocins. It is standardized by HPLC and DNA certified as genuine Crocus sativus. In Viva+, Affron is included as a standardized botanical extract, part of the overall formulation.
The saffron used for Affron is grown and harvested in Spain in a way that, according to the manufacturer, avoids the microbial issues that can otherwise require heat or radiation treatment. Because those treatments can reduce the amount of the naturally occurring bioactive components, avoiding them helps retain them. The result is a consistent, HPLC-standardized extract rather than a generic saffron powder. This describes the sourcing and processing, not any effect on the body.
Saffron itself carries no authorized nutrient claim. The recognized nutrient roles in Viva+ come from its vitamins and minerals (magnesium, vitamin C, iodine, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12), obtained at the intake stated on the label. Individual results vary from person to person.*
Follow the serving directions on the product label. Always read the label and use only as directed. Viva+ is certified vegan by The Vegan Society and independently tested under Informed Sport and the Cologne List. It is a food supplement and is not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
A patented, standardized extract of Spanish saffron stigmas (Crocus sativus L.), standardized to at least 3.5% of the component group the manufacturer calls Lepticrosalides, verified by HPLC and DNA certified as genuine saffron.
That a specific natural component is present at a consistent, measured level in every batch, rather than varying like raw plant material. It describes manufacturing consistency, not an effect.
The vitamins and minerals: magnesium, vitamin C, iodine, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12. Affron is included as a standardized botanical extract.*
Spanish-grown Crocus sativus, harvested and processed by hand.
Yes. It is certified vegan by The Vegan Society and independently tested under Informed Sport and the Cologne List.
Always read the label and use only as directed.
For adults. Read the label for the full ingredient and allergen declaration and use only as directed. Contains iodine. Consult a healthcare professional before use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking prescribed medication, under medical care or managing a condition. Keep out of reach of children. A food supplement is not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Individual results vary from person to person and depend on a balanced diet, regular exercise, hydration, rest and other lifestyle habits. A food supplement is not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. For adults. Consult a physician before use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking prescribed medication, managing a medical condition or under medical care.