Science
Le bien-être est le résultat d'une prise en charge holistique de la qualité de vie. SCRIPS associe les acquis de la science moderne aux connaissances traditionnelles, ouvrant ainsi une voie totalement sûre et éprouvée vers l’harmonie et la serenite.
SaraPEPP™ Nu
Exclusive, natural, and premium Timut Pepper extract that has been clinically proven to reduce rates of mental fatigue, and to enhance cognitive function, focus and neural efficiency. It has significant acute effects on working memory, attention and mental performance after a single-dose intake. Moreover, it prolongs the lifespan of the nematode C. elegans. Given its notable resemblance to the human genome and brain function, C. elegans is commonly employed as a model organism for investigating cognition pathways.
Cognitive Performance and Brain-Aging
Both external and internal elements contribute to the aging of the brain, affecting cognitive performance in various ways.
As individuals reach midlife, a decline in cognitive performance becomes noticeable, and initial indicators of mild cognitive impairment may manifest, as illustrated by findings from the MIDUS study.
The aging process is associated with a reduction in the release of neurotransmitters (such as acetylcholine, gamma-aminobutyric acid, serotonin, and dopamine), as well as changes in receptor density and sensitivity in the brain.
Cognitive Benefits of SaraPEPP™ Nu are Mediated by Various Effects
Hydroxy-α-sanshool and Zanthoxylum extracts have been reported to exert many different potential mechanisms to improve brain activity:
Increased acetylcholine and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) release
Interactions with the transient receptor potential (TRP) channel receptors mediating cellular Calcium influx and tandem pore domain potassium channels (KCNK3), key regulation processes for neurotransmitter release
Structural similarities to monoamine neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine
Bioassay Study Results Longevity Effects in Nematode C. elegans
The nematode C. elegans is frequently used as a model organism to investigate aging processes, the neuronal development of the central nervous system and cognition pathways
Several compounds known to be active on the human central nervous system are extending lifespan in C. elegans
→ SaraPEPP™ Nu is able to significantly extend the mean lifespan of C. elegans
Clinical Data: Cognitive Performance and Cerebral Blood Flow
Randomized, double blind, and placebo controlled clinical trial
Study duration: 57 days
Study population: Healthy adults (n=81; mean age: 42.4y)
Study site: Brain, Performance and Nutrition Research Centre; Northumbria University; Newcastle; UK
Study registration: U.S National Library of Medicine; entry no. NCT03673930
Daily dosage: 2800 mg SaraPEPP™ Nu liquid; twice daily application (softgel caps)
Parameters:
Cognitive test battery (COMPASS)Cerebral blood flow (CBF)
Assessments: At day 1 (acute effects) and after 57 days chronic consumption; cognitive assessment at 3 different time points each 1 h, 3 h and 5 h after first and final intake
The alkylamide hydroxy-α-sanshool is discussed as the major active of Timut Pepper also mediating the numbing and tingling sensations
• Good bioavailability and blood-brain crossing is reported for alkylamides in general
• Brain health benefits (in vitro and in vivo) are reported for hydroxy-α-sanshool and other alkylamides
Clinical Data: Cognitive Performance
Acute effect:
Significant faster performance on the reaction times of all attention tasks. Average reaction times in msecs during the attention tasks: Choice Reaction Time and Rapid Visual Information Processing (3 repetitions)
→ SaraPEPPTM Nu treatment improves
mental performance right after its use
Clinical Data: Cognitive Performance
Acute effect:
Significant improved accuracy of RVIP (Rapid Visual Information Processing) performance, a test to measure working memoryand attention. Participants monitor digits flashing up rapidly on screen for either three odd or three even digits, and press responsebutton when they occur.
→ SaraPEPPTM Nu treatment immediately improves attention and working memory
Clinical Data: Cognitive Performance
Chronic effect:
Significant faster performance across all cognition tasks. Average reaction times for all of the nine tasks that return reaction time data– calculated as relative reaction time (Z score)
→ SaraPEPPTM Nu treatment improves long
term mental performance
Clinical Data: Cognitive Performance & Cerebral Blood Flow Study Arm
Chronic effect:
Significant reduced ratings of mental fatigue. Participants rate their current subjective ‘mental fatigue’ state directly after completion of cognitive demand battery
→ SaraPEPPTM Nu reduces signsof mental fatigue
Acute and chronic effects:
• Improvement of neural efficacy demonstrated in the CBF study arm in response to task
performance, mostly pronounced during RVIP attention task
• Similar effects are described for (nitrate-rich) red beet, green tea extract and caffeine
• Results indicates that the cognitive benefits of SaraPEPP™ Nu are mediated by rather a direct
neural mechanism and not a simple improvement of cardiovascular function in the brain
→ SaraPEPPTM Nu increases neural efficacy / improves brain function
Study results summary
Improved working memory and attention
Increased mental performance
Reduced ratings of mental fatigue
Improved neural efficacy
Significant acute effects on working memory, attention and mental performance after a single-dose
intake
SaraPEPP™ Nu was well tolerated during the clinical study without any signs of potential side effects
Study results are published by peer-reviewed journal: Nutrients. 2019 Dec; 11(12): 3022.
Lion's Mane
Hericium erinaceus (most commonly known as Lion's mane) is one of the most potent bioactive mushrooms, and has many beneficial effects on the body, especially the brain, heart, and gut. Good quality Lion's Mane extracts contain high levels of beta-glucan, which is a key ingredient responsible for mushrooms potential for immunomodulation. What does it mean? Lion's Mane based supplements stimulate your immune system, protecting your body and mind from plenty of diseases – spanning from allergies and inflammations to old-age health issues. It also helps keeping your blood sugar levels right, maintaining a balance between good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol and has anti-gastris and anti-ulcers effects. Lion's Mane shows potential for repairing neurological damage and even slowing down the development of diseases as serious as Alzheimer's. And still scientists only begin to understand the full potential of this complex mushroom.
Health Benefits
Among all culinary mushrooms has been widely reported to have therapeutic activities related to the promotion of nerve and brain health. Different compounds isolated from this mushroom inducing the expression of neurotrophic factors such as nerve growth factors (NGF) have been actively studied and reported. Hericenones were typically found in the fruiting bodies while erinacines were derived from the mycelia of the mushroom.
The possible advantages of Lion's Mane mushroom are vast and cover various aspects of physical, cognitive, and mental well-being. This mushroom contains natural bioactive compounds, which are beneficial substances present in specific foods and plants. Consequently, it demonstrates properties that combat diseases, such as antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.
Kawagishi H., Ando M., Sakamoto H., et al. Hericenones C, D and E, stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF)-synthesis, from the mushroom Hericium erinaceum. Tetrahedron Letters. 1991;32(35):4561–4564. doi: 10.1016/0040-4039(91)80039-9.
Lee E. W., Shizuki K., Hosokawa S., et al. Two novel diterpenoids, erinacines H and I from the mycelia of Hericium erinaceum. Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry. 2000;64(11):2402–2405. doi: 10.1271/bbb.64.2402.
Studies also indicate that Lion's Mane mushroom might safeguard nerves from diseases or degeneration., according to a 2015 abstract in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. The same study concludes the mushroom displays additional health-promoting benefits, such as:
Regulates blood sugar
Reduces high blood pressure
Promotes healthy energy levels and combats fatigue
Helps to prevent excess blood lipid accumulation
Protects heart health
Slows biological aging
Protects liver health
Protects kidney health
Ghosh S, Nandi S, et alBanerjee A, Sarkar S, Chakraborty N. Prospecting Medicinal Properties of Lion’s Mane Mushroom. Journal of Food Biochemistry. 2021;45(8).
Traditional Knowledge
Lion's Mane is a mushroom that has a rich history of being utilized both for medicinal purposes and in various culinary traditions in Asia and Europe. The use of this medicinal mushroom dates back to 450 BCE, when the Greek physician Hippocrates identified its potential anti-inflammatory properties and its role in wound cauterization, as outlined in a 2017 study published in the Journal of Restorative Medicine.
This mushroom thrives on the trunks of old or deceased broadleaf trees. Broadleaf trees undergo seasonal leaf shedding and disperse their seeds through vessels like fruit. Comprising two essential parts, Lion's Mane consists of the visible fruiting body (the mushroom) and the mycelium, a root-like structure at the base. Both the fruiting body and the mycelium contain compounds that contribute to potential health benefits.
Spelman K, Sutherland E, Bagade A. Neurological Activity of Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus). Journal of Restorative Medicine. 2017;6(1)19-26.
Bacopin®
Botanically Bacopa monniera is rich in bacosides, the active components responsible for enhancing memory-related functions. It supports normal memory function and reduces absent mindedness, promotes brain function and mental clarity, and reduces stress-related anxiety.
Traditional Knowledge
Bacopin® is botanically Bacopa monniera (syn. Herpestis monniera) or Brahmi, belonging to family Scrophulariaceae. Brahmi has been used by Ayurvedic medical practitioners in India since ancient times. The Ayurvedic physician, Charaka, in his treatise the Charaka Samhita, included Brahmi in formulations used in the management of mental conditions. According to Charaka, it acts as an effective brain tonic, boosting ones capabilities to think and reason. In India, it is a popular drug recognized as being effective in the treatment of mental illness and epilepsy. In the ancient Indian texts of Ayurveda, Brahmi has been described as sweet in taste, producing coolness. It also possesses the capacity to increase strength and endurance capabilities in individuals. Traditionally, Brahmi is attributed with detoxifying properties acting as a laxative and astringent. It is also described as "light" in digestion, attenuating brain functions and promoting longevity.
B. monniera has been used traditionally as a brain tonic to enhance memory development, learning, concentration and to alleviate symptoms associated with anxiety and epileptic disorders. The name ‘Brahmi’ is derived from the word ‘Brahma’ which translates to ‘mythical creator’ in Hindu mythology. According to Indian philosophy, the brain is considered to be the center of creative activity, thereby rightly naming a nutrient that improves this ability as ‘Brahm’.
Bacopin® obtained from the leaves of Bacopa monniera (Bacopa monnieri) is commonly known as a Natural Memory Enhancing Herb. The major constituents (actives) of Bacopa are Bacosides which was found to supplement cognitive function.
Mechanism of Action
Repairing damaged neurons: Bacosides are reported to promote nerve impulse transmission by repairing damaged neurons. This is done by enhancing kinase activity, neuronal synthesis and restoration of synaptic activity.
(Singh HK et. al (1997). Indian J.Pharmacol., 29:S359-365)
Inhibiting Acetylcholinesterase (AChE): Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) hydrolyzes the neurotansmitter Acetycholine. It is found at neuromuscular junctions and cholinergic brain synapses, where its activity serves to terminate synaptic transmission. Higher levels of AChE have been reported to play a major role in the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
B. monniera suppresses the function of AChE in the cerebral cortex, particularly in the parietal cortex and hippocampus, leading to increased availability of Acetylcholine. This facilitates enhanced attention, memory and cognitive processing thereby resulting in enhanced working memory.
Clinical studies
In a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study, 60 healthy elderly volunteers (mean age 62) consisting of 23 males and 37 females, received either a standardized extract of B.monniera (300 and 600 mg) or placebo daily for 12 weeks.
B. monniera at a dose of 300mg/day was found to
• Improve memory power
• Improve speed & continuity of attention
• Improve memory quality
• Decrease age related negative deflection (N100) and positive deflection (P300) latencies.
B. monniera extract (300mg/kg) suppresses AChE activity resulting in enhanced cholinergic function, which in turn enhances attention and memory processing and gives rise to increased working memory.
These results suggest that B. monniera can improve attention, cognitive processing, and working memory partly via the suppression of AChE activity.
Bacopa for Age Associated Memory Impairment
• Double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study on 40 subjects
• Daily supplementation with 300 mg of Bacopa extract for a period of 12 weeks provided significant improvement on mental control, logical memory and paired associated learning
Sangeetha Raghav et al., Indian J Psychiatry. 2006 Oct-Dec; 48(4): 238-242.
Bacopa for Alzheimer's disease
39 patients (60-65 years) given 300 mg Bacopa extract twice daily for 6 months
Treatment with Bacopa extract results in improvement in some aspects of cognitive functions in geriatric patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease
Goswami S. International Journal of Collaborative Research on Internal Medicine & Public Health. Vol. 3 No. 4 (2011).
Bacopa for Revitalizing Intellectual Functions
• Study was conducted to determine the effects of Bacopa monnieri in revitalizing the mental capacities of school children
• Bacosides repair the neurons, thereby promoting transmission of impulses and restores vital protein activity in hippocampus area (Brain)
Sharma, R. et al. (1987), J. Res. Ind. Med
L-Theanine
L-Theanine is an amino acid present in tea and certain mushrooms. L-Theanine bears a resemblance to glutamate, a naturally occurring amino acid that aids in transmitting nerve signals within the brain. Additionally, L-Theanine may affect the levels of certain chemicals in the brain. These include serotonin and dopamine, which influence mood, sleep, and emotion, and cortisol, which helps the body deal with stress.
Reducing stress and anxiety
Clinical studies have demonstrated that the administration of L-theanine supplements is associated with an elevation in GABA, dopamine, and serotonin levels, contributing to a state of relaxation and a reduction in anxiety levels.
A randomized trial observed that healthy adults undergoing a four-week regimen of L-theanine supplementation exhibited a notable reduction in symptoms related to stress. Although these findings are promising, it is imperative to acknowledge the individualized nature of stress reduction, influenced by the specific stress response and temporal context in which it occurs.
Pharm Biol 2019 Dec;57(1):65-73. doi: 10.1080/13880209.2018.1557698.
Improving sleep quality
It has been suggested that the administration of L-theanine prior to bedtime may be beneficial for individuals encountering disruptive sleep patterns or experiencing difficulties initiating sleep. A study conducted in 2019 investigated the potential advantages of a combination supplement comprising L-theanine and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) on the quality and duration of sleep. GABA is an endogenous neurotransmitter associated with the induction of a calming effect within the brain and is available as a dietary supplement. The study findings indicated a potential augmentation in both sleep duration and REM sleep with the use of this combination.
Pharm Biol 2019 Dec;57(1):65-73. doi: 10.1080/13880209.2018.1557698.
Boosting mental clarity
In cases of cognitive impairment characterized by brain fog or a subjective sense of malaise, L-theanine supplementation exhibits the potential to augment mental clarity and improve focus. According to the aforementioned 2019 study, L-theanine demonstrated efficacy in enhancing verbal fluency and sustaining attention in healthy adults, with heightened benefits observed in conjunction with caffeine.
Pharm Biol 2019 Dec;57(1):65-73. doi: 10.1080/13880209.2018.1557698.
Increasing cognitive performance
In 2016, researchers reviewed the existing research on the benefits of L-theanine and concluded that this compound could benefit a person’s mental and physical health. They noted that it seems to have neuroprotective effects, which improve brain function. On its own, L-theanine may improve a person’s attention and reaction times.
https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages2020013
Centellin®
A standardized extract derived from Centella asiatica, also known as Gotu kola. It has been scientifically proven to improve short-term memory, learning performance and attention. The clinical trials also demonstrated that the extract increases the intelligence quotient of children. Centella extract may also affect the biosynthesis of other neurotransmitters involved in learning and memory like Ach, Noradrenaline, 5HT, Dopamine.
Traditional Knowledge
This perennial herb is easy to identify by its small rounded leaves, more or less cordate, borne at the nodes of a long running stem. Umbels with very small flowers characterize this species. The plant contains several biologically important constituents, including an essential oil, sterols, flavonol glycosides, polyalkynes and saponins. Centella asiatica (Mandukaparni in Ayurveda) has been used traditionally, since ancient times, to treat dermatitis and heal superficial wounds.
Centella asiatica has been used as a medicine (as brain tonic) in the Ayurvedic tradition of India for thousands of years and listed in the historic 'Sushruta Samhita', an ancient Indian medical text. In China it is known as Got Kola and is reported as "miracle elixirs of life" for over 2000 years. Traditionally it is used for different ailments like asthma, skin disorders, ulcers, body aches, improving memory and as a nervine tonic.
Centellin® contains a minimum of 8% triterpenoids. The major known constituents of Centella are triterpenoidal saponins that include asiaticoside, centelloside, madecassoside, thankuniside, isothankunic acid, centellose, asiatic acid, centellic acid, madecassic acid, brahmoside, brahminoside and brahmic acid.
Kashmira J. Gohil et al. Indian J. Pharm. Sci. 2010; 72(5): 546-556.
Mechanism of Action
Centella is known to increase the level of neurotransmitter GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid) that is known to act on hippocampus in the brain.
It is found to improve short-term memory and learning performance due to its possible nootropic action that involves cholinergic and GABAergic modulation. It also affects the biosynthesis of other neurotransmitters involved in learning and memory i.e. Acetyl choline, Noradrenaline, 5 Hydroxy tryptophan, Dopamine.
Ji WQ, et al., Zhongguo Yao Li Xue Bao. 1995; 16: 380-382.
Hatfield Tet al., Neurobiol. Learn Mem. 1999; 71: 232-239.
Farr SA, et al., Banks WA Brain Res. 2000; 864: 263-269.
Cho YH et al., Behav. Brain Res. 1999; 98: 77-87.
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has a significant role in memory formation process, while oxidative stress causes memory impairment. It is reported that the ethanol extract of Centella asiatica leaf, increases memory performance and serum BD concentration and also decrease in Nitric Oxide level after chronic stress.
Clinical studies
In an open trial conducted on the case of educable mental retardation, Centella powder (2.5g Centella asiatica powder twice daily for 6 months) was found to improve Performance IQ, Social Quotient, Immediate memory span and reaction time.
A placebo study was carried out on forty one (22 females and 19 males) healthy middle age participants, who were given Centella asiatica capsules at various doses ranging 3 g to 4 g (according to body weight) once daily for 2 months. Cognitive performance was assessed using the Woodcock-Johnson Cognitive Abilities Test III (WJ CAT III) for a period of 90 days. i.e. prior to the trial (baseline), 40 days, 60 days and 90 days (after treatment). Males seemed to respond more to long term memory, visual partial thinking and speed processing after consuming Centella asiatica, while in females an increase in long term memory, short term memory, working memory, executive process and delayed recall was noticed. Based on the above study, Centella asiatica enhances many of the cognitive tests measured at different times between males and females.
Roxana dev et al., European Journal of Scientific Research 2009; 31(4): 553-565.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba has two primary active ingredients at varying concentrations: terpene lactones (which most notably include ginkgolides and diterpenes) and ginkgo flavone glycosides (which most notably contain ginkgetin, bilobetin, and sciadopitysin). It has been utilized for an extended period to address blood-related disorders and cognitive concerns. Its most prominent contemporary reputation lies in its potential to support cognitive function, particularly in maintaining sharp memory. Scientific investigations in laboratories have revealed that ginkgo enhances blood circulation through vasodilation, reducing blood viscosity. Additionally, it exhibits antioxidant properties.
Traditional Knowledge
Ginkgo biloba stands as the most ancient living species of trees, capable of enduring for up to 1,000 years and reaching towering heights of 120 feet. Characterized by short branches bearing fan-shaped leaves and malodorous, inedible fruits, ginkgos are recognized for their resilience and sturdiness. In certain regions of the United States, they are intentionally planted along urban streets. During the autumn season, the leaves undergo a spectacular transformation, displaying vibrant hues.
While traditional Chinese herbal medicine has employed both ginkgo leaves and seeds for millennia, contemporary research primarily focuses on the standardized Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) derived from dried green leaves. This concentrated extract appears to be more effective in addressing health issues, particularly those related to circulation, compared to the non-standardized leaf alone.
Psychiatric disorders
Researchers have identified over 40 constituents within ginkgo. Among them, only two are recognized for their medicinal properties: flavonoids and terpenoids. Flavonoids function as antioxidants derived from plants. Scientific investigations indicate that flavonoids play a protective role against damage to nerves, heart muscle, blood vessels, and the retina. On the other hand, terpenoids, exemplified by ginkgolides, enhance blood circulation by widening blood vessels and mitigating platelet adhesiveness.
Eye Health
Ginkgo biloba shows promise in the treatment of glaucoma and other eye diseases. It contains natural properties that act as antioxidants and improve blood flow. This effect has been shown to reduce retinal degeneration. There's also evidence of Ginkgo biloba producing color vision improvements.
Saccà SC, Corazza P, Gandolfi S, et al. Substances of interest that support glaucoma therapy. Nutrients. 2019;11(2). doi:10.3390/nu11020239
Anxiety
Some studies suggest that ginkgo biloba may be helpful for relieving symptoms of anxiety. One study found that people who took 480 mg of ginkgo biloba each day experienced a 45% greater reduction in their anxiety symptoms than those taking a placebo.
J Psychiatr Res. 2007;41(6):472-80. doi:10.1016/j.jpsychires.2006.05.004
Saffr'Activ®
The first saffron extract in Europe used for cognitive and mental health. Key saffron components, including crocin, and safranal, contribute to alleviating mental depression and anxiety. Additionally, clinical evidence supports its efficacy in improving sleep.
Traditional application
Crocus sativus more know under name “Saffron” is a spice well-known in traditional medicine since antiquity. Very studied in modern research, clinical trials and publication confirmed the effects of saffron on numerous human diseases and mainly on mental health and mood.
Well-known since 1500 BC in Asia and Europe, the sterile plant Crocus sativus (saffron) is issued from a wild precursor, the Crocus cartwirghtianus. Certainly, first cultivated in Greece, the origin of saffron is not clear, but the history of saffron usage dates back nearly 3000 years, spanning many continents, civilizations, and cultures.Used since Antiquity in medicine, effects of saffron were described in traditional medicine in various countries, like in Avicenna’s canon of medicine. In traditional medicine, saffron is described for numerous effects like analgesic, anti-inflammatory, effects on central nervous system, and eye disease.
Modern application
The effect of Crocus sativus on health are confirmed by various pharmacological and clinical studies. The modern research studied the effect of saffron and its compounds on the lot disorders and diseases, like neurodegenerative diseases, or anxiety, but also the safety of this plant. Several animal models (acute and sub-chronic studies) and clinical trials have been conducted for determination of saffron safety. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study consisting of one week treatment with 200 and 400 mg of saffron tablets per day, healthy subjects exhibited no changes in coagulation and anticoagulation factors. Those results were supported by another study presenting similar design where saffron has no deleterious effect on body weight, blood pressure, heart rate, kidney functions and circulating lipids.
Treating insomnia: Current and investigational pharmacological approaches. Ebert et al. 2006, Pharmacol. Ther., 112, 612–629.
Sleep quality and its psychological correlates among university students in Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study. Lemma et al. 2012, BMC Psychiatry 2012, 12, 237.
Mechanism of action
Biochemicals mechanisms of saffron on sleep, mood, cognition or Alzheimer disease are not totally elucidated, but publications explored different track to highlight these mechanisms. These publications show a lot of benefits of saffron on brain. Saffron interacts with hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and in literature, it was proved than crocins and safranal have effect on neurotransmitters, like serotonin, dopamine, glutamate, and norepinephrine, implicated in mood and depression. A dysfunction of neurotransmitters levels in brain induced several diseases, included depression and mood disorders.
For example, a low serotonin concentration is associated with anxiety, depression, bulimia, impulsivity, aggression, and suicidal behaviour. A correct dose of crocins allows to maintain and increase the serotonin, dopamine, glutamate, and norepinephrine levels. Safranal also increases serotonin level. Thus, saffron can support emotional balance.
Mol Nutr Food Res. 2012 Feb;56(2):304-8. doi: 10.1002/mnfr.201100181. Epub 2011 Oct 28.
CNS Neurosci Ther. 2012 Aug;18(8):623-30. doi: 10.1111/j.1755-5949.2012.00334.x. Epub 2012 May 28.
Sarris, J.; Panossian, A.; Schweitzer, I.; Stough, C.; Scholey, A. Herbal medicine for depression, anxiety and insomnia: A review of psychopharmacology and clinical evidence. Eur. Neuropsychopharmacol. 2011, 21, 841–860.
Ebert, B.; Wafford, K.A.; Deacon, S. Treating insomnia: Current and investigational pharmacological approaches. Pharmacol. Ther. 2006, 112, 612–629.
Saffron acts similar to Diazepam (benzodiazepine, sedative, analgesic, hypnotic agent), without side effects.
Pilot study (France, 2014)
Saffr’activ® eq. 0.8 mg crocins or placebo
42 days
30 subjects mild stress symptoms
Objective: effects of saffron on anxiety and sleep
Measurements: Heart rate and weight
Questionnaire: Depression symptoms, anxiety level, sleeping issue, hunger
Effects of Saffron Extract on Sleep Quality: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Clinical Trial, Pachikian et al. 2021, Nutrients
Clinical study (Belgium, 2021)
Double blind against placebo
Saffr’activ® eq. 0.9 mg crocins or placebo
49 days
60 subjects mild to moderate chronic primary sleep disorder mild to moderate anxiety
Objective: effects of saffron on sleep
Measurement by Motionwatch actimeter
Questionnaires (LSEQ, PSQI) Sleep quality assessment SF-36 general quality of life
H. Blasco-Fontecilla, E. Moyano-Ramírez, O. Méndez-González, M. Rodrigo-Yanguas, M. Martin-Moratinos, et M. Bella-Fernández, « Effectivity of Saffron Extract (Saffr’Activ) on Treatment for Children and Adolescents with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Clinical Effectivity Study », Nutrients, vol. 14, no 19, p. 4046, sept. 2022, doi: 10.3390/nu14194046.
ADHD Clinical study (Spain, 2022)
Saffr’activ® eq. 30 mg/day or Methyphenidate 1 mg/kg/day
90 days
63 subjects (11 years old on avg.), non-randomized.
Objective: efficacy of saffr’activ on ADHD symptoms and executive functions
Measurement by CPT-3 of impulsivity and sustained attention
Questionnaires: Severity by SNAP-IV, CPRS-R-IV, Executive functions by BRIEF-2, Sleep quality by SDSC