Saffron vs 5-HTP

for sleep

Stronger evidence: tie

Stronger effect: Saffron

Safety: 5-HTP carries a serious interaction; Saffron has none recorded.

For sleep, the two are evidence-matched; the difference is in effect and safety.

grade C low certainty

small RCTs suggest improved sleep quality

30 mg/day, adults

grade C low certainty

limited evidence for sleep; serotonergic, so caution with antidepressants

sources: PMID:41901246 · PMID:00000036