Daily saffron supplements have been shown to be more effective at preventing muscle weakness and pain after strenuous exercise than anti-inflammatory drugs, according to a study out of Iran.

The research, published in the Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine, builds on past studies that have shown that the popular spice produced from the flower of the Crocus sativus contains beneficial compounds called carotenoids, which are associated with cancer and heart-disease prevention, The Wall Street Journal reports.

The latest study shows that two saffron carotenoids, crocin and crocetin, may have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

Researchers tracked 39 men — 12 of whom took daily capsules containing 300 milligrams of powdered saffron, one week before and three days after a strenuous exercise session. Another 12 men took indomethacin, a nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory drug or NSAID, three times a day. Fifteen others received placebo pills.

The results showed the saffron group was pain-free for three days after the session. The indomethacin group experienced minor pain at 24 hours that disappeared after 72 hours. Those given a placebo reported severe muscle pain for three days.