Sleep unfolds in roughly 90-minute cycles made up of several stages: light sleep (N1 and N2), deep sleep (stage N3, or nREM for non-Rapid Eye Movement) and REM sleep. Stage N3 is marked by slow, ample brain waves called delta waves, and it’s during this phase that the body regenerates most intensely — tissue repair, memory consolidation, hormonal regulation and overall energy recharge.

Deep sleep normally makes up 15-25% of total sleep time in adults, a proportion that naturally declines with age, but also with chronic stress and modern lifestyle habits, often leaving people feeling tired on waking even after seven or eight hours of sleep. Rather than promoting sleep onset through sedative mechanisms, this complex acts on the physiological mechanisms governing sleep depth and quality — a different approach from most sleep products on the market, which focus only on falling asleep.

Ashwagandha Shoden, the most concentrated extract on the market with a minimum 35% withanolide glycosides, helps reduce cortisol levels, the stress hormone that disrupts deep sleep phases. PeptiSleep, a brown rice protein hydrolysate developed by the Irish company Nuritas using AI-driven discovery, contains specific bioactive peptides identified for their action on receptors involved in regulating deep sleep.

Organic SAFFR’ACTIV saffron, a Sargol-grade organic extract standardised for crocins and safranal, acts on the serotonergic pathway, positively influencing mood and sleep quality. Finally, organic passionflower, standardised to 10% polyphenols and 4% vitexin, gently modulates GABA-A receptors in the central nervous system, without causing dependency or tolerance — a multi-target combination for a balanced, complementary action.

Take 2 capsules a day, around 30 minutes before bed, with a glass of water. Regular use is essential for the four actives to have their full effect on deep sleep quality; a minimum 4-week course is recommended to see initial results, and it can be extended over several months with no risk of dependency, as none of the actives used cause tolerance. Store the bottle away from heat, humidity and direct light.

A food supplement is not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Due to the saffron content, not recommended for people on antidepressants without prior medical advice. Ashwagandha is not recommended in case of autoimmune or thyroid conditions without medical supervision. For adult use only. If you take medication or have a specific medical condition, consult a healthcare professional before use. Do not combine with other supplements containing ashwagandha without medical advice. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Keep out of reach of children.

Does the Deep Sleep nREM Complex contain melatonin?

No. It works through four different mechanisms: reducing cortisol via ashwagandha Shoden, modulating deep sleep receptors via PeptiSleep, a serotonergic action via SAFFR’ACTIV saffron, and GABA-A modulation via passionflower — a good option for people who prefer to avoid melatonin or haven’t had results with it.

Can this be taken long term without becoming habit-forming?

Yes. One of this formula’s main strengths is that it doesn’t cause dependency or tolerance. The four actives used (ashwagandha, rice peptides, saffron, passionflower) don’t lose effectiveness over time, so long-term use is possible, following the usage precautions; a minimum 4-week course is recommended to see initial results.

What is the difference between deep nREM sleep and REM sleep?

Deep sleep (nREM stage N3) is the phase of maximum physical recovery, marked by slow delta brain waves, during which the body repairs tissue and consolidates memory. REM sleep is the dreaming phase, marked by intense brain activity and rapid eye movements. Both phases are complementary and necessary for fully restorative sleep; the nREM Complex specifically targets deep sleep, often insufficient in modern adult life.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.