Attitudes and Tendencies Toward the Medicinal Use of Saffron Among Academic Communities in Herat

Abstract Saffron (Crocus sativus L.), valued in traditional Asian medicine, contains bioactive compounds such as crocin and safranal with antioxidant, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, and cognitive-enhancing properties. This study assessed attitudes, awareness, and consumption of saffron among educated individuals in Herat, Afghanistan, emphasizing its potential as a complementary therapy. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 400 faculty members, students, and staff from Herat, Jami, and Ghalib Universities. Data were collected using a structured Likert-scale questionnaire and analyzed in SPSS (v26) with Student’s t-test and multiple regression to identify predictors of therapeutic use. Over 90% of participants reported positive attitudes toward saffron as a medicinal supplement. Commonly cited benefits included mood enhancement (mean = 3.62), improved sleep (mean = 3.57), and stress reduction. The questionnaire demonstrated strong reliability (Cronbach’s α = 0.834). Participants from medical sciences (50% of the sample) exhibited significantly greater awareness of therapeutic properties. Regression analysis identified prior positive experiences, belief in natural remedies, and preference for herbal treatments as significant predictors of willingness to use saffron therapeutically. In conclusion, saffron is widely accepted as a complementary supplement in the academic community of Herat. Strengthening awareness and validating efficacy may enhance integration into health strategies and reduce reliance on synthetic pharmaceuticals.