Can “shanghuo” (excessive internal heat) cause insomnia?
Aug 10, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
Excess internal heat (“shang huo”) can cause insomnia. When liver fire disturbs the Heart, it commonly manifests as insomnia with vivid dreams—or even complete sleeplessness—along with irritability, anger, dizziness, red eyes, tinnitus, dry and bitter mouth, loss of appetite, a red tongue with yellow coating, and a wiry, rapid pulse. This pattern primarily arises from liver qi stagnation and Heart agitation. Treatment should focus on soothing the Liver, clearing fire, and calming the Shen (spirit). Clinically, Long Dan Xie Gan Tang (Gentiana Decoction to Drain the Liver) is commonly prescribed as the principal formula to clear excessive fire from the Liver and Gallbladder.
Spring is a season when many diseases occur frequently. During this time, people should pay closer attention to their diet, as dry weather can easily cause irritability and “excess internal heat” (a traditional Chinese medicine concept referring to an imbalance characterized by inflammatory or hyperactive symptoms).
Can “Excess Internal Heat” Cause Insomnia?
Yes, “excess internal heat” can lead to insomnia. When liver fire disturbs the heart, common manifestations include insomnia with vivid dreams—or even complete sleeplessness—irritability, anger, dizziness, red eyes, tinnitus, dry and bitter taste in the mouth, loss of appetite, a red tongue with yellow coating, and a wiry, rapid pulse. This pattern typically arises from liver qi stagnation combined with heart irritation. Treatment focuses on soothing the liver, clearing liver fire, and calming the mind. Clinically, Long Dan Xie Gan Tang (Gentiana Decoction to Drain the Liver) is commonly prescribed as the primary formula. It effectively clears excessive heat from the liver and gallbladder and drains damp-heat; the synergistic action of its constituent herbs helps alleviate insomnia triggered by emotional agitation.
“Excess internal heat” often reflects an anxious emotional state triggered by stressful events. However, ruminating repeatedly before bedtime can further impede sleep onset and contribute to insomnia. Therefore, avoid dwelling on feelings of “heat” right before sleeping. Instead, listen to soothing music to divert attention, ease anxiety, relax your mind, and fall asleep more quickly. Besides “excess internal heat,” other conditions—including sleep disorders and neuroses—can also cause insomnia. When insomnia severely interferes with daily work or studies, treatment under a physician’s guidance—using herbs that clear heat, calm the spirit, and promote restful sleep—is recommended.
In daily life, consume more vegetables and fruits and engage in moderate physical exercise. When facing challenges, maintain a calm and composed mindset. We hope this information proves helpful to you.
