By Hugo Francisco de SouzaApr 10 2024Reviewed by Benedette Cuffari, M.Sc. In a recent study published in Scientific Reports, researchers evaluate the efficacy of a novel nutraceutical formulation containing L-theanine supplemented with valerian, saffron, and lemon balm extracts to improve sleep quality.
Sleep represents a human biological process responsible for energy saving and restoration, tissue growth and repair, and memory consolidation. Sleep has also been associated with the breakdown and removal of noxious metabolites, including beta-amyloid. L-theanine, a tea derivative, has been shown to improve relaxation, sleep quality, mood, and cognitive performance. Likewise, lemon balm extracts appear to enhance sleep quality in patients with insomnia. Valerian and saffron extracts have similarly been tested and found to have significant positive effects on sleep with minimally adverse side effects.
Related StoriesData collection included sociodemographic, anthropometric, and medical histories of all participants. Blood pressure and heart rate metrics were collected using a sphygmomanometer and pulse oximeter. Study findings Of the 193 candidates initially screened, 67 met the study inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. Three participants eventually declined to complete the study, thus resulting in a final dataset of 64 participants, 35 and 29 of whom were randomized to receive the nutraceutical formulation and placebo, respectively.