Crocus Sativus for Insomnia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Level 1 - systematic review of randomized trials
Systematic review and meta-analysis of placebo-controlled trials
PubMed 36141931 · doi:10.3390/ijerph191811658
What was done
A systematic review and meta-analysis conducted following PRISMA guidelines searching PubMed/Medline and Cochrane Library through December 2021. The study evaluated the effects of Crocus sativus compared to placebo on insomnia outcomes using a random-effects model, I² heterogeneity statistic, and GRADE assessment.
What was found
Eight studies with 431 total participants were included: - Insomnia severity: SMD 0.53 (95% CI: -0.05 to 1.11; I² = 59%; p = 0.08). - Sleep quality: SMD 0.89 (95% CI: 0.10 to 1.68; I² = 90%; p = 0.03; 6 studies, 308 participants; very low-quality evidence). - Sleep duration: SMD 0.57 (95% CI: 0.21 to 0.93; I² = 40%; p = 0.002; 5 studies, 220 participants; moderate-quality evidence).
Why it matters
Synthesizes initial clinical evidence indicating saffron may serve as a non-pharmacological option to improve sleep quality and duration in insomnia.
Limits
The total sample size across 8 studies is small (431 participants). Statistical heterogeneity was very high for sleep quality (I² = 90%), the reduction in insomnia severity failed to reach statistical significance (p = 0.08), and overall evidence certainty ranged only from very low to moderate. Dosing, specific formulations, and safety profiles were not reported in the abstract.
Cited by
- partial Saffron and valerian root are clinically supported ingredients that can assist with falling asleep, staying asleep, and waking refreshed.