PSYCHOBIOTIC POTENTIAL OF SAFFRON (CROCUS SATIVUS): EFFECTS ON GUT MICROBIOTA AND SLEEP ARCHITECTURE IN PATIENTS WITH INSOMNIA

Abstract

Insomnia is a prevalent sleep disorder associated with dysregulation of the gut–brain axis, altered microbiota composition, and impaired neurochemical signaling. Emerging evidence suggests that psychobiotics—bioactive compounds influencing mental health via gut microbiota modulation—may offer novel therapeutic avenues. Saffron (Crocus sativus), traditionally used for mood and sleep disorders, contains bioactive constituents such as crocin, crocetin, and safranal with demonstrated neuroprotective and anxiolytic properties. This manuscript explores the psychobiotic potential of saffron, focusing on its effects on gut microbiota composition and sleep architecture in insomnia patients. We synthesize current preclinical and clinical evidence and propose mechanistic pathways linking saffron intake to improvements in sleep quality through microbiota-mediated modulation of neurotransmitters and inflammatory pathways. Finally, we outline future research directions and clinical implications.