Can the Chinese medicine Heishunpian treat insomnia?
Apr 07, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
If insomnia is not caused by kidney yin deficiency or heart blood insufficiency, but instead results from emotional depression, anxiety, excessive thinking, liver fire ascending, or other similar factors, then using Heishunpian (Black Prepared Slices) alone may be ineffective, and could potentially worsen the condition due to improper medication. Therefore, before using Heishunpian to treat insomnia, it is essential to identify the specific underlying cause of insomnia and use the medication appropriately under the guidance of a TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) physician.
Chinese herbal medicine Heishunpian (Black顺片) generally cannot treat insomnia. It is recommended to seek timely medical advice, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician.
If the cause of insomnia is not due to kidney yin deficiency or deficiency of heart blood, but rather results from emotional depression, anxiety, excessive thinking, or excessive internal heat from the liver, then using Heishunpian alone may be ineffective and could even worsen the condition due to incorrect medication choice. Therefore, before using Heishunpian for insomnia, it is important to determine the specific cause of insomnia and use the medication appropriately under the guidance of a TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) practitioner.
Heishunpian is primarily used to treat conditions such as yang deficiency collapse syndrome, cold extremities with weak pulse, impotence, cold uterus, cold abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea due to deficiency-cold, edema caused by cold syndrome, external contraction due to yang deficiency, and pain caused by cold-dampness. It is not specifically indicated for insomnia. Insomnia is commonly associated with excessive mental stress, environmental factors, difficulty falling asleep, or trouble maintaining sleep. For such cases, it is recommended to use medications like Anshen Butian Liquid (Nourishing Brain and Calming Liquid) or安定片 (Valium tablets), and to undergo standardized treatment under a physician's guidance.
Prior to using any medication for treatment, one should always consult a qualified physician to ensure safe and effective medication use. Maintaining good sleep habits, avoiding excessive fatigue and mental tension, can also help improve insomnia.
