Science
We believe that being physically fine is just the first step toward a good life. SCRIPS aims at providing the ultimate route to holistic wellbeing.
SaraPEPP™ Nu
Unique, natural, and highest-quality Timut Pepper extract has been clinically proven to reduce mental fatigue and enhance cognitive function, focus, and neural efficiency. Its significant acute effects on memory, attention, and mental performance have been observed after a single-dose administration. In preclinical studies, the extract was proven to extend the lifespan of the nematode C. elegans, a model organism for investigating cognition pathways.
Cognitive Performance and Brain-Aging
Brain aging is influenced by a combination of external and internal factors, which collectively impact cognitive performance in various ways.
By midlife, individuals typically experience a discernible decline in cognitive abilities, with initial signs of mild cognitive impairment becoming apparent, as evidenced by research such as the MIDUS study.
This decline is associated with decreased release of neurotransmitters like acetylcholine, gamma-aminobutyric acid, serotonin, and dopamine, as well as alterations in brain receptor density and sensitivity.
Cognitive Benefits of SaraPEPP™ Nu are Mediated by Various Effects
Hydroxy-α-sanshool and Zanthoxylum extracts have shown promise in enhancing brain function through various mechanisms. These include promoting the release of neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which are crucial for cognitive processes.
Additionally, these extracts interact with receptors such as the transient receptor potential (TRP) channels and tandem pore domain potassium channels (KCNK3), which play vital roles in regulating cellular calcium influx and neurotransmitter release.
Furthermore, their structural similarities to monoamine neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine suggest potential benefits in modulating mood and cognitive functions.
Bioassay Study Results Longevity Effects in Nematode C. elegans
The nematode C. elegans serves as a common model organism for studying aging mechanisms, central nervous system (CNS) neuronal growth, and cognitive pathways.
Various compounds known for their activity in the human central nervous system have been found to prolong the lifespan of C. elegans.
→ SaraPEPP™ Nu has demonstrated a significant ability to extend the average lifespan of C. elegans, indicating its potential as a promising agent for research into longevity and neurological health in both animals and humans.
Clinical Data: Cognitive Performance and Cerebral Blood Flow
A randomized, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled clinical trial, spanning 57 days, was conducted with a study population comprising healthy adults (n=81; mean age: 42.4 years).
The trial was conducted at the Brain, Performance and Nutrition Research Centre, Northumbria University, Newcastle, UK, and registered with the U.S National Library of Medicine under entry no. NCT03673930.
Participants were administered a daily dosage of 2800 mg SaraPEPP™ Nu liquid, delivered via soft gel caps, twice daily. Parameters assessed included cognitive function using the COMPASS test battery and cerebral blood flow (CBF).
Cognitive assessments were conducted at three different time points on Day 1 to assess acute effects and after 57 days of continuous consumption, with evaluations performed 1 hour, 3 hours, and 5 hours after the first and final intake.
The primary active ingredient of Timut Pepper, alkylamide hydroxy-α-sanshool, is implicated in mediating numbing and tingling sensations.
Alkylamides, including hydroxy-α-sanshool, are reported to exhibit good bioavailability and cross the blood-brain barrier, with documented brain health benefits observed in vitro and in vivo studies.
Clinical Data: Cognitive Performance
Acute effect:
Significantly better performance on the reaction times of all attention tasks. Average reaction times in milliseconds during the attention tasks: Choice Reaction Time and Rapid Visual Information Processing (3 repetitions)
→ SaraPEPPTM Nu treatment improves mental performance immediately after its administration
Clinical Data: Cognitive Performance
Acute effect:
RVIP (Rapid Visual Information Processing), a test measuring working memory and attention, significantly improved accuracy. During the test, the participants monitor digits flashing rapidly on screen, waiting for either three odd or three even numbers, and press a button when they occur in such a combination.
→ SaraPEPPTM Nu treatment immediately improves attention and working memory
Clinical Data: Cognitive Performance
Long-term effect:
Significantly better performance across all cognition tasks was recorded. 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
Long-term effect:
Significantly reduced mental fatigue. Participants rate their current subjective ‘mental fatigue’ state directly after completion of a cognitive assessment battery
→ SaraPEPPTM Nu reduces signs of mental fatigue
Acute and long-term effects:
• Improvement of neural efficacy demonstrated in the CBF study arm in response to task performance, mostly evident during RVIP attention task
• Similar effects are identified for (nitrate-rich) red beet, green tea extract, and caffeine
• Results indicate that the cognitive benefits of SaraPEPP™ Nu are mediated by a direct neural mechanism, 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 mental fatigue
Improved neural efficiency
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, a key ingredient responsible for mushrooms' potential for immunomodulation. In other words, Lion's Mane-based supplements stimulate your immune system, protecting your body and mind from diseases –from allergies and inflammation to aging-related health issues. It also helps keep your blood sugar levels steady, maintaining a balance between good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol, and has anti-gastritis and anti-ulcer effects. Lion's Mane shows potential for repairing neurological damage and even slowing the development of serious diseases such as Alzheimer's. Still, scientists have only begun to understand the full potential of this complex mushroom.
Health Benefits
Among all culinary mushrooms, Lion’s Mane has been widely reported to exhibit therapeutic effects beneficial to nerve and brain health. Different compounds isolated from this mushroom are responsible for inducing the expression of neurotrophic factors such as nerve growth factors (NGF) and have been actively studied and reported. Hericenones were typically found in the fruiting bodies, while erinacines were derived from the mushroom's mycelia.
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 other foods and plants. Thus, it possesses antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
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.
Some studies also indicate that Lion's Mane mushroom might safeguard nerves from diseases or degeneration, as suggested in a 2015 publication 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 with a rich history of being used 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 decomposing broadleaf trees. Broadleaf trees undergo seasonal leaf shedding and disperse their seeds through vessels like fruit. Lion's Mane consists of two essential parts: the visible fruiting body (the mushroom) and the mycelium, a root-like structure at the base. 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 that enhance memory-related functions. It supports normal memory function, reduces absent-mindedness, promotes proper brain function and mental clarity, and reduces stress-related anxiety.
Traditional Knowledge
Bacopin® , botanically Bacopa monniera (syn. Herpestis
monniera) or Brahmi, belongs to the family Scrophulariaceae. Ayurvedic medical practitioners have used Brahmi in India since ancient times.
In his treatise, Charaka Samhita, the Ayurvedic physician,included Brahmi in formulations used to manage mental conditions. According to Charaka, it acts as an effective brain tonic, boosting one's capabilities in thinking and reasoning. 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, producing coolness. It also possesses the capacity to increase strength and endurance. 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, and 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 the center of creative activity, 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. Bacopa's major constituents (actives) are bacosides, which were 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 synaptic activity restoration.
(Singh HK et. al (1997). Indian J.Pharmacol., 29:S359-365)
Inhibiting Acetylcholinesterase (AChE): Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) hydrolyzes the neurotransmitter Acetylcholine. It is found at neuromuscular junctions and cholinergic brain synapses, where its activity terminates 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, improving working memory.
Clinical studies
In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 60 healthy elderly volunteers (mean age of 62), 23 males and 37 females, received either a standardized extract of B. monniera (300 and 600 mg) or a placebo daily for 12 weeks.
B. monniera at a dose of 300mg/day was found to
• Improve memory performance
• 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, enhancing cholinergic function, enhancing attention and memory processing, and improving working memory.
These results suggest that B. monniera can improve attention, cognitive processing, and working memory partly by suppressing AChE activity.
Bacopa for Age Associated Memory Impairment
• Double-blinded, placebo-controlled, randomized study on 40 subjects
• Daily supplementation with 300 mg of Bacopa extract for 12 weeks significantly improved mental control, logical memory, and associated learning impairment.
Sangeetha Raghav et al., Indian J Psychiatry. 2006 Oct-Dec; 48(4): 238-242.
Bacopa for Alzheimer's disease
39 patients (60-65 years) were given 300 mg Bacopa extract twice daily for 6 months
Treatment with Bacopa extract resulted in improvement of 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
• A study was conducted to determine the effects of Bacopa monnieri in revitalizing the mental capabilities of school children
• Bacosides repair the neurons, thereby promoting the transmission of impulses and restoring vital protein activity in the brain hippocampus area.
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 resembles 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, emotions, and cortisol levels, which help 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 of 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 stress-related symptoms. Although these findings are promising, it is imperative to acknowledge the individualized nature of stress reduction, which is 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 administering L-theanine before bedtime may be beneficial for individuals encountering disruptive sleep patterns or experiencing difficulties falling asleep. 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 the REM sleep phase with 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 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®
Centella extract is 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. Clinical trials also demonstrated that the extract increases children's intelligence quotient. Centella extract may also affect the biosynthesis of other neurotransmitters involved in learning and memory, like ACh, Noradrenaline, 5HT, and dopamine.
Traditional Knowledge
This perennial herb is easily identified by its small rounded leaves, more or less cordate, borne at the nodes of a long-running stem. Umbels with tiny flowers characterize this species. The plant contains several biologically important constituents, including essential oil, sterols, flavonol glycosides, polyalkenes, and saponins. Centella asiatica (Mandukaparni in Ayurveda) has been used traditionally to treat dermatitis and heal superficial wounds since ancient times.
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. It is known as Got Kola in China and has been reported as the "miracle elixir of life" for over 2000 years. Traditionally, it is used for different ailments like asthma, skin disorders, ulcers, body aches, memory improvement, and as a nervine tonic.
Centellin® contains a minimum of 8% triterpenoids. The major known Centella are triterpenoidal saponins that include constituents of 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 neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) level, which acts on the hippocampus in the brain.
It improves short-term memory and learning performance due to its possible nootropic action involving cholinergic and GABAergic modulation. It also affects the biosynthesis of other neurotransmitters involved in learning and memory, namely acetylcholine, noradrenaline, 5-hydroxytryptophan, and 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) plays a significant role in memory formation, while oxidative stress causes memory impairment. The ethanol extract of Centella asiatica leaf is reported to increase memory performance and serum BD concentration and decrease the 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 41 (22 females and 19 males) healthy middle-aged participants, who were given Centella asiatica capsules at various doses ranging from 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 90 days. i.e. before the trial (baseline), 40 days, 60 days and 90 days (after treatment). Males seemed to respond by enhancing long-term memory, improving visual partial thinking and speed processing after consuming Centella asiatica. In females, researchers observed increased long-term memory, short-term memory, working memory, executive process, and delayed recall. Based on the above study, Centella asiatica enhances many cognitive tests and seems to have gender-specific effects.
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 includes ginkgolides and diterpenes) and ginkgo flavone glycosides (containing ginkgetin, bilobetin, and sciadopitysin). It has been used historically to address blood-related disorders and cognitive problems. Its most prominent contemporary reputation lies in its potential to support cognitive function, particularly in maintaining sharp memory. Scientific laboratory investigations 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 some areas of the United States, they are intentionally planted along urban streets. During autumn, 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, than the non-standardized leaf alone.
Psychiatric disorders
Researchers have identified over 40 constituents within ginkgo. Among them, two chemical groups are recognized for their medicinal properties: flavonoids and terpenoids. Flavonoids function as antioxidants derived from plants. Scientific investigations indicate that flavonoids protect against nerve damage, 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 treating 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 that Ginkgo improves color vision.
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 help relieve 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 was 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 commonly known as “Saffron,” is a well-known spice in traditional medicine. The plant has been studied thoroughly, and modern research, clinical trials, and publications have confirmed its effects on numerous human diseases, mainly 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. Although it was first cultivated in Greece, the origin of saffron is not clear. Still, the history of saffron usage dates back nearly 3000 years, spanning many continents, civilizations, and cultures. Since antiquity in medicine, the effects of saffron have been described in traditional medicine in various countries, for example, in Avicenna’s canon of medicine. In conventional medicine, saffron is described for numerous effects, such as analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, on the central nervous system and eye disease.
Modern application
Various pharmacological and clinical studies confirm the effect of Crocus sativus on health. Modern research has studied the effect of saffron and its compounds on many disorders and diseases, like neurodegenerative diseases or anxiety, as well as the safety of this plant. Several animal models (acute and sub-chronic studies) and clinical trials have been conducted to determine saffron safety. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study of one week of treatment with 200 and 400 mg of saffron tablets daily, healthy subjects exhibited no changes in coagulation and anticoagulation factors. Those results were supported by another study presenting a similar design where saffron has no harmful 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
The biochemical mechanisms of saffron on sleep, mood, cognition, and Alzheimer's disease are not entirely understood, but publications have explored different tracks to highlight these mechanisms. These publications show a lot of benefits of saffron on the brain. Saffron interacts with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and in literature, it was proved that crocins and safranal affect neurotransmitters, like serotonin, dopamine, glutamate, and norepinephrine, implicated in mood and depression. A dysfunction of neurotransmitter levels in the brain induced several diseases, including depression and mood disorders.
For example, a low serotonin concentration is associated with anxiety, depression, bulimia, impulsivity, aggression, and suicidal behavior. A correct dose of crocins allows to maintain and increase the serotonin, dopamine, glutamate, and norepinephrine levels. Safranal also increases serotonin levels and 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
