Ancient Persian Secret Unlocks Perfect Sleep in 3 Weeks
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted June 7, 2025
If you’re among the millions tossing and turning at night, with sleep remaining frustratingly out of reach, I’ve got exciting news.
Scientists discovered an ancient spice—prized for its distinctive flavor and color—might hold the key to better sleep.
And unlike many sleep medications, this natural approach works without the morning grogginess or dependency potential…
Two new studies confirm that saffron extract can be a powerful, natural sleep aid.
The first study—randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled—examined the effect of saffron extract on sleep through the gut-brain axis. Fifty-two older adults experiencing sleep difficulties took one 30mg saffron extract gummy daily for four weeks.
The results were impressive. Participants taking saffron experienced significant improvements, including:
- A decrease in their global PSQI (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index) score
- Better sleep quality
- Increased sleep efficiency (the percentage of time in bed actually spent sleeping)
- Improvements in both falling asleep and staying asleep
And the surprises didn’t end there. When researchers analyzed the gut microbiomes of 26 participants, they found that those taking saffron had a significant increase in beneficial bacteria.
This suggests that the herb improves sleep by positively influencing gut health.
The gut-brain connection is a cutting-edge area of research, and this study provides compelling evidence that what happens in our digestive system significantly impacts our sleep.
The second study, which hasn’t been published yet, confirms saffron’s benefits.
This larger trial involved 165 participants 18-65 with sleep disorders. Those taking 20mg of saffron extract had measurable improvements in their sleep after just 21 days.
Saffron (Crocus sativus) has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly in Persian and Ayurvedic healing practices. It contains several bioactive compounds, including crocin, crocetin, and safranal, which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and mood-enhancing properties.
These same active compounds are believed to influence neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin, which plays a crucial role in sleep regulation.
This research offers an exciting alternative to risky sleep medications. However, remember that improving sleep often requires a multi-faceted approach.
Saffron works best when combined with good sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, limiting screen time before bed, and managing stress.
P.S. Study exposes the dark side of sleep meds!
Sources:
Leonie Lang, Annabel Ditton, Andi Stanescu, Vernisse Jainani, et al., A standardised saffron extract improves subjective and objective sleep quality in healthy older adults with sleep complaints: results from the Gut-Sleep-Brain Axis randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study, medRxiv, 2025.02.20.25322405; DOI:10.1101/2025.02.20.25322405
Effect of a saffron extract on sleep parameters in healthy adults with poor sleep: a randomized, double blind, 3 arm, placebo-controlled clinical study, Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices, German Clinical Trials, DRKS-ID: DRKS00033435 Register
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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