Everyone knows that getting enough sleep is important, but many people still suffer from sleepless nights that lead to miserable days. Western doctors may prescribe sleeping pills or anti-depressants for chronic cases of insomnia, but practitioners of Chinese medicine will try to determine what sort of imbalance in the body is the reason for the insomnia. Treatments differ based on the root cause.
Suan Zao Ren
Dr. Wei Liu of the American Academy of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine says Suan Zao Ren is one of the most popular herbs in China for treating insomnia. She says the herb comes from a shrubby, thorny date plant that grows in mountainous areas of northern China and is commonly used for "calming the spirit" and helping people cope with stress. She prescribes it when patients are losing sleep due to a liver/heart imbalance. Bob Dorris, a doctor of oriental medicine, notes that this herb is excellent for long-term use to strengthen the imbalance that brought on the insomnia.
An Mien Pien
An Mien Pien, or Pian, is sometimes known as a "calm sleep tablet." Bob Dorris writes on the Natural Health Remedies website that this is a common, popular remedy that can help several different types of insomnia. He says it's especially good for people suffering from anxiety, panic or depression. It might also be used when people are experiencing vivid dreams or when the insomnia is brought on by eating too big a meal.
Gui Pi Wan
If a spleen/heart disorder is suspected, Gui Pi Wan may be prescribed for treatment of insomnia. Dr. Wei Liu says people with spleen/heart deficiencies may be "forgetful, have poor concentration, feel very fatigued" and worry a lot. She says it can be especially good for overworked students who are losing sleep.
Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan
When someone is losing sleep because the kidney and heart are not in harmony, Dr. Wei Liu says Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan is a time-honored Chinese remedy. She says this pattern of disharmony is commonly found in peri-menopausal women and the elderly. The herb is used to help people sleep more deeply and stay asleep for longer periods of time. She says it can help you awake feeling more refreshed and energetic.
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Wan
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Wan is another popular herb for sleeplessness. Bob Dorris writes on the Natural Health Remedies website that it may be recommended if someone suffers from insomnia and weariness, fatigue or exhaustion. It may also be used if the insomnia is combined with lack of strength, decreased appetite or nausea.
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