Insomnia affects up to 40% of the population, so if you’re reading this, chances are you (or someone you sleep near) suffers from this sleep disorder. The quest for restful sleep has many people trying various natural remedies. Among these, saffron, often referred to as “red gold,” emerges as a promising solution. This article explores the benefits of saffron for sleep , supported by scientific studies.

Several studies have shown that saffron can help improve sleep quality. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine* found that participants taking a saffron supplement for 28 days reported significantly improved sleep compared to those taking a placebo. Participants reported a reduction in the time it took to fall asleep and improvements in both the duration and quality of sleep.

Saffron works primarily by regulating serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is crucial for regulating mood and sleep. A study conducted by Murdoch University* in Australia demonstrated that the active components of saffron, such as crocin and safranal , increase the availability of serotonin, which helps promote restful sleep and reduce symptoms of insomnia.

“Not only does saffron prolong sleep duration, it also improves its quality.”

Additionally, a study published in Phytomedicine* examined the effects of saffron on sleep disturbances in adults with mild to moderate anxiety. The results showed that taking 30g of saffron for six weeks significantly improved sleep quality and reduced anxiety symptoms in participants. This suggests that saffron may be particularly beneficial for people whose sleep disturbances are related to stress and anxiety.

Saffron also has the advantage of having few side effects compared to traditional sleep medications. A meta-analysis of several clinical studies, published in the Journal of Integrative Medicine , confirmed that saffron's side effects are generally rare and mild, making the spice a safe option for improving sleep quality.

To incorporate saffron into your sleep routine, you can consume 30g per day of our Origin of Happiness saffron, which corresponds to 15 stigmas per day by infusing it in hot water before bedtime to soothe the mind and prepare the body for restful sleep.

In conclusion, saffron is a promising natural option to improve sleep quality. Backed by scientific evidence, it works by regulating serotonin levels and reducing anxiety, thus providing deeper and more restful sleep. Before starting any new supplementation, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, especially if you are already taking medications for sleep disorders or other conditions.

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*Sources:

1. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine (2019). “The effect of saffron supplementation on sleep quality: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.” Link to the study
2. Murdoch University Study (2018). "Saffron's role in the modulation of serotonin levels for sleep improvement." Link to the study
3. Phytomedicine (2018). "Saffron for treatment of anxiety and sleep disturbance: A clinical study." Link to the study
4. Journal of Integrative Medicine (2020). “Safety and efficacy of saffron supplementation: A meta-analysis of clinical trials.” Link to the study