A new research has revealed that Indian yellow spice saffron may help people to keep their vision sharp.

The new study pointed out that saffron is an effectual weapon to prevent age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which is the commonest cause of blindness in the elderly.

The discovery is timely as it is believed that the number of AMD patienets will increase threefold by the next 25 years. There is no treatment available to cure the condition.

Prof. Bisti praised the study outcomes and stated that the yellow spice may hold the key to prevent the most common cause of blindness in old people.

In experiments conducted in Italy, old people suffering from AMD were administered a daily saffron capsule for a period of 3 months followed by a dummy drug for an additional period of three months.

The second group had the supplements in the reverse order whiereas twenty-five participated in all.

Study lead author Professor Silvia Bisti of the University of Sydney, stated, "All patients experienced improvements in their vision while taking the saffron pill," Bisti said. "But when they stopped taking it, the effect quickly disappeared."

"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."

Prof. Bisti said that saffron has an effect on the quantity of fat accumulated by the eye, turing vision cells harder.

The study researchers are now aiming to find out the perfect dosage. They will also consider saffron's capability to handle genetic eye problems, which can cause life-long blindness.