Saffron Helps You Sleep. Plus!

If you are suffering from insomnia, this study suggests that saffron can do much more than help you sleep.

This double-blind study looked at the effect of saffron on adults between the ages of 18 and 65 who were suffering from moderate insomnia. The usual dose of saffron extract is 28-30mg. This study compared 20mg and 30mg doses to a placebo for 4 weeks. The saffron or placebo was taken one hour before bedtime.

There was significant improvement on an insomnia scale in both saffron groups compared to the placebo, especially for how people fell asleep and the duration of sleep. A sleep quality scale also showed significant improvement in quality of sleep in both saffron groups versus placebo.

But the benefit didn’t stop there. While there was no change in the people’s perception of stress in the placebo group, there was significant in both saffron groups. And there was also significant improvement in depression and anxiety in the 30mg saffron group versus placebo.

The saffron was well tolerated.

This study of people with moderate insomnia adds to the evidence that saffron is a powerful herb for insomnia, stress, anxiety and depression.

Sleep Med X. July 9, 2025;10:100147.

For the latest research to keep you and your family healthy, get The Natural Path delivered to your inbox each month for only $29.99 a year: Subscribe!

For much more on improving insomnia and mental health naturally, see our book The Family Naturopathic Encyclopedia.

For comprehensive natural help with your insomnia and mental health health, make an appointment to see Linda Woolven now. Linda’s clinic is now open for in person and virtual appointments.

The Natural Path is intended for educational purposes only and is in no way intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. For health problems, consult a qualified health practitioner for a comprehensive program.

Ask your health food store for The Natural Path Newsletter