Crocetin, a carotenoid compound found in saffron (Crocus sativus), has been investigated for its potential lipid-lowering effects, including on triglycerides. Several preclinical studies and a few small clinical trials suggest that crocetin may help reduce serum triglyceride levels, possibly by influencing lipid metabolism, enhancing antioxidant capacity, and improving hepatic function. For example, animal studies have demonstrated that crocetin supplementation can decrease triglyceride accumulation in the liver and lower plasma triglyceride concentrations in models of hyperlipidemia.^[1][2]

Human evidence is more limited but includes a small number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). In one study, saffron supplementation (containing crocetin and related compounds) led to modest reductions in triglyceride levels in adults with metabolic syndrome.^[3] However, these effects are not consistently observed across all studies, and many trials use saffron extracts rather than isolated crocetin, making it difficult to attribute the results solely to crocetin. Meta-analyses indicate that saffron may have a mild triglyceride-lowering effect, but data specifically on crocetin remain sparse and preliminary.

In summary, there is some scientific evidence, mostly preclinical and a few small clinical trials, suggesting crocetin may help lower triglycerides. However, the evidence is limited in size and quality, so the overall rating is modest.