What Chinese herbs can be used for insomnia?
Apr 27, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, insomnia may be caused by factors such as poor environment, dietary stimulation, neurasthenia, anxiety disorders, depression, and others. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation and, under a doctor's guidance, use medications such as Baizi Yangxin Pills, Tianwang Buxin Dan, Xiaoyao Pills, Wuling Capsules, and Shugan Granules for treatment. Additionally, it is important to maintain a positive mindset and avoid excessive mental stress in daily life.
In general, insomnia may be caused by unfavorable environment, dietary stimulation, neurasthenia, anxiety disorder, depression, and other factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation and, under the guidance of a physician, use medications such as Baozhi Yangxin Pills, Tianwang Buxin Pills, Xiaoyao Pills, Wuling Capsules, Shugan Granules, etc., for treatment. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Unfavorable Environment
Sudden changes in the sleep environment, such as noise, bright light, or uncomfortable temperature, may stimulate the sensory nerves, activate the brain's wakefulness system, and keep the brain in an excited state, making it difficult to fall asleep. Usually, medication is not required. It is recommended to create a quiet, comfortable, and temperature-appropriate sleeping environment by using soundproofing materials, blackout curtains, etc., and adjust the indoor temperature before bedtime.
2. Dietary Stimulation
Consuming large amounts of caffeinated beverages such as coffee or tea before bedtime, or eating spicy, greasy, or hard-to-digest foods, can stimulate the nervous system, increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract, and cause brain excitement, leading to insomnia. In general, medication is not necessary. It is advisable to avoid consuming coffee, tea, or similar beverages 4-6 hours before bedtime. Dinner should be light and easy to digest, without overeating.
3. Neurasthenia
Neurasthenia is usually caused by long-term mental stress, excessive pressure, extreme fatigue, and other factors. Prolonged tension of the brain nerves can easily lead to dysfunction of the nervous system, affecting the regulation of the sleep center, thus causing insomnia. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as difficulty concentrating and memory decline. Patients may take medications such as Baozhi Yangxin Pills, Tianwang Buxin Pills, Jieyu Anshen Granules, etc., under the guidance of a physician.
4. Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety disorders are often related to genetic factors, neurobiological factors, psychosocial factors, etc. Neurotransmitter imbalances in the brain of patients, such as abnormalities in serotonin and dopamine, may lead to emotional regulation disorders, causing excessive anxiety and keeping the brain in a continuous state of alertness and tension, which disrupts sleep. Symptoms such as palpitations and rapid breathing may also occur. Patients may take medications such as Xiaoyao Pills, Wuling Capsules, Guipi Pills, etc., as directed by a physician.
5. Depression
The causes of depression include genetic factors, changes in neurotransmitters, and alterations in brain neural structures. Decreased levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain may affect emotional regulation, sleep regulation, and other functions, potentially leading to insomnia. Symptoms such as low mood and reduced appetite may also occur. Patients may take medications such as Shugan Granules, Huoli Su Oral Liquid, Compound Difu Oral Liquid, etc., as advised by a physician.
In daily life, maintaining a positive mindset, avoiding excessive mental stress, engaging in appropriate outdoor activities, enhancing physical fitness, and improving sleep quality are recommended.
