Saffron Inhibits 78% of Lung Cancer Cells in Vitro: An extract of saffron prepared from dried and ground up stigma of the saffron flower (Crocus sativus L.) was shown to reduce viability of human non-small cell lung cancer cells (A549) by 78% at the highest concentration used after 72 hours of treatment in vitro. The #saffron extract inhibited the cancer cells via multiple pathways, potently reducing proliferation, and causing programmed cell death (apoptosis) in over 45% of the #cancer cells outright. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer related death worldwide, with non-small cell lung cancer making up 85% of the cases. Saffron is well known as a spice for cooking but has also been used in traditional medicine for centuries for a variety of ailments. Recent research has focussed on saffron's ability to protect the eyes (macular degeneration) and to treat metabolic syndrome with two clinical trials currently ongoing and recruiting patients. No clinical trials have started for treating cancer yet, but early lab research has shown significant activity against breast cancer, prostate cancer, colon cancer and others. Typical doses of saffron used in current clinical trials range from 20 mg per day for macular degeneration, 100 mg daily for treating metabolic syndrome, and 400 mg daily for pain management (but just for two days).