Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Saffranal is one of the main volatile compounds found in saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and is primarily responsible for its distinctive aroma. There is some emerging scientific evidence suggesting that saffranal may have sedative and sleep-promoting effects, which has led to its investigation as a potential support for insomnia. Preclinical studies in animal models have shown that saffranal can increase total sleep time and reduce sleep latency, possibly through positive modulation of GABAergic activity in the central nervous system—mechanisms similar to those of common sedative-hypnotic drugs. For example, research published in peer-reviewed journals has demonstrated that saffranal administration led to increased non-REM sleep and had anxiolytic effects in rodents.

However, clinical evidence in humans remains limited. Some small-scale trials using saffron extracts (which contain saffranal along with other compounds) have reported improvements in sleep quality in people with insomnia or sleep disturbances, but these studies do not isolate saffranal as the sole active component. No large-scale, high-quality randomized controlled trials have specifically evaluated purified saffranal for insomnia in humans. Thus, while there is a scientific rationale and preliminary evidence, the strength of the evidence is modest, and more robust human studies are needed to firmly establish efficacy and safety.

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5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)
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amino acids
anamu
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atractylone
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benegut perilla (proprietary)
betony
big quaking grass
black cumin
black seed
blackboard tree
blackthorn
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borassus palm
brahmi
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cactus
calamus
calcium
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cannabidiol
cannabinol
Capitate Valerian
carry me seed
Carthamus
cassia bark
catnip
Centella asiatica
Centella triterpenes
chamomile
cherimoya
cherry
Chinese salvia root
Chinese silkvine
chrysanthemum
cinnamon
citron
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corktree
Corydalis
cowslip
Cyathula
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Doxylamine succinate
dragonhead
elephant\'s head
elk antler
Embelia
Erodium cicutarium
European Elder
fennel
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ganoderma
Gardenia jasminoides
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geraniol
giant blazingstar
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goji berry
gooseberry
gotu kola
Greek mountain tea
heartwood
Homalomena
honeybush
hops
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jasmine
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jujube
jujubosides
kava
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kiwi
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magnolia
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Other health conditions supported by Safranal

Alzheimer's Disease
Anxiety
Anxiety Disorders
Depression
Insomnia
Memory and Brain Function
Stress

Products containing Safranal

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.