ADHD in Children and Adolescents: Study on the Effects of Saffron as a Natural Alternative to Methylphenidate
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders affecting children and adolescents. It is characterized by difficulty in maintaining attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.
Some children struggle mainly with concentration and task completion, while others are hyperactive and impulsive, and some exhibit both.
ADHD is commonly treated with medication, psychotherapy, and psychoeducational interventions. Although the medications used are generally safe and cause mild side effects, many parents prefer natural options, leading to the exploration of alternatives such as saffron.
Some studies suggest that saffron may benefit the central nervous system, facilitating the release of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters involved in ADHD.
In Spain, a pilot study was conducted to compare the efficacy of saffron with methylphenidate, a commonly used medication for ADHD.
The open, non-randomized study involved 63 children and adolescents (ages 7-17) who had not received pharmacological treatment in the previous six months. Participants were divided into two groups: the first received 30 mg of saffron daily in the evening for three months, while the second took a daily dose of extended-release methylphenidate at 1 mg per kg of body weight in the morning. Both groups also followed a psychoeducation program.
Improvements were assessed through questionnaires (SNAP-IV and CPRS-R for ADHD severity, BRIEF-2 for executive function, SDSC for sleep disturbances), and an objective test (CPT-3 for impulsivity and attention).
At the end of the study, both saffron and methylphenidate showed positive effects on the main symptoms of ADHD and executive function, with saffron also linked to reduced sleep onset time.
However, saffron was found to be more effective for hyperactivity symptoms, while methylphenidate was more effective for inattention.
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