Introduction
This study investigates the effects of saffron extract on sleep quality in subjects with mild to moderate sleep disorder associated with anxiety. Despite the known efficacy of saffron in depression and anxiety contexts, its impact on sleep quality using objective measures had not been thoroughly explored.
Methods
A randomized double-blind controlled trial was conducted with 66 participants, divided into placebo and saffron extract groups (15.5 mg per day) for 6 weeks. Objective sleep quality data were collected via actigraphy, while subjective assessments utilized the Leeds Sleep Evaluation Questionnaire (LSEQ) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI).
Results
Saffron supplementation resulted in:
- Increased time in bed as assessed by actigraphy.
- Improved ease of getting to sleep, evaluated by the LSEQ.
- Enhanced overall sleep quality, sleep latency, sleep duration, and global scores according to the PSQI, unlike the placebo group.
Conclusion
The findings suggest that saffron extract can serve as a natural and safe nutritional strategy to improve sleep duration and quality, marking a significant step forward in the search for effective sleep disorder treatments without the adverse effects associated with conventional medications.
Authors:
by Barbara D. Pachikian, Sylvie Copine, Marlène Suchareau, Louise Deldicque
Published:
19 March 2021 / Revised: 21 April 2021 / Accepted: 23 April 2021 / Published: 27 April 2021
