What Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) herbs can be used for insomnia?
Jun 02, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
For insomnia, Jufang Zao Ren Capsules or traditional Chinese herbal medicines containing Ziziphi Spinosae Semen (jujube seed) may be used. For insomnia caused by kidney-yang deficiency—accompanied by fatigue, excessive dreaming, night sweats, and dizziness—Anshen Bunao Liquid is recommended. For insomnia resulting from low mood, anhedonia, or depression, Wuling Capsules or Shugan Jieyu Capsules may be prescribed. For insomnia due to yin deficiency with hyperactive fire, Bailaomian Capsules are indicated.
As life and work pressures continue to rise, a growing number of individuals experience insomnia at night, often accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness and nausea. So, which traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) are effective for insomnia?
Which Traditional Chinese Medicines Are Recommended for Insomnia?
For insomnia, Compound Zao Ren Capsules or other herbal formulas containing Ziziphi Spinosae Semen (jujube seed) may be used. For insomnia caused by kidney-yang deficiency—manifesting as fatigue, excessive dreaming, night sweats, and dizziness—An Shen Bu Nao Ye (Calming the Spirit and Nourishing the Brain Liquid) is recommended. For insomnia triggered by low mood, loss of interest in activities, or depression, Wu Ling Capsules or Shu Gan Jie Yu Capsules (Liver-Soothing and Depression-Relieving Capsules) may be prescribed. For insomnia due to yin deficiency with hyperactive fire, Bai Le Mian Capsules are appropriate. For insomnia resulting from dual deficiency of qi and blood or liver-kidney insufficiency, Yuan Qi Su may be used.
Insomnia refers to difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep, leading to insufficient sleep duration or poor sleep quality. Also termed “sleep-onset and sleep-maintenance disorder,” it is a common condition arising from multiple causes—including difficulty falling asleep, shallow or fragmented sleep, early morning awakening, inadequate total sleep time, or diminished sleep quality. Insomnia often imposes significant physical discomfort and psychological distress on patients and may lead to adverse effects from inappropriate or excessive use of hypnotic medications. Fortunately, numerous effective strategies exist to alleviate and treat insomnia.
During recovery, listening to soothing music or uplifting stories can help divert attention away from stressors. Avoid excessive anxiety or irritability, maintain open communication with family members, and engage in appropriate physical exercise—such as jogging or hiking—to enhance immunity and promote restful sleep. We hope this information proves helpful to you.
