Effects of red Indian water lily (Nymphaea Pubescens Willd.) tea on sleep quality and health-related quality of life in adults with sleep disorders: An uncontrolled pretest–posttest pilot Study

Abstract

This research aimed to assess the efficacy of Red Indian Water Lily (Nymphaea pubescens Willd.) tea on enhancing sleep quality and improving quality of life among individuals experiencing sleep disorders. Employing a one-group pretest-posttest research design, the study was conducted at the Udon Thani Provincial Public Health Office, Thailand, between July and September 2023. The sample comprised 53 adult participants diagnosed with sleep disorders, presenting a mean age of 43.3 ± 9.7 years. Participants consumed a daily dosage of 1200 mg of N. pubescens tea for a period of four weeks. Sleep quality was quantitatively evaluated using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), while quality of life was assessed through the EQ-5D-5L questionnaire. Additionally, sensory attributes were evaluated employing a 9-point hedonic scale. Post-intervention analysis revealed a statistically significant improvement in participants' overall PSQI scores, which decreased from a baseline mean of 8.92 ± 0.32 to 5.90 ± 0.25 (p < 0.001). Significant enhancements were specifically noted in sleep quality, sleep duration, and daytime dysfunction (p < 0.001). Furthermore, notable improvements in mental health were observed, with the EQ-5D-5L visual analogue scale scores showing a substantial rise from 73.7 ± 17.1 to 83.3 ± 8.3 (p < 0.001). The sensory evaluation indicated high consumer acceptance, with the highest satisfaction ratings for appearance (7.49 ± 1.05), whereas the taste/flavor attribute received the lowest ratings (6.58 ± 1.70). In conclusion, consumption of Red Indian Water Lily tea was effective in significantly enhancing sleep quality and alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression in individuals suffering from sleep disorders. Despite favorable overall acceptance, improvements in flavor profile could further enhance consumer appeal. Additional controlled trials are recommended to substantiate these findings.