In traditional Chinese medicine, insomnia is treated with herbs to help achieve balance in the body. In the Chinese medical model, sleeplessness is brought about by imbalances in the energetic concepts of chi, yin and yang, as well as in between blood and essence. Herbs and herbal mixtures restore the benefits of a healthy night's sleep. Chinese herbs may have contraindications with other pharmaceuticals and should never be taken with alcohol or sedatives. Talk to your doctor before using any herbs if you are on medicine or have any health conditions.
Suan Zao Ren
Suan Zao Ren is the most popular Chinese herbal mixture for insomnia. Composed of a half a dozen herbs, this mixture is taken in a warm water infusion or tea. Also known as the Zizyphus Combination, Suan Zao Ren treats several of the body's imbalances by supporting yin and building blood in the kidneys, according to The International Academy of Medical Acupuncture. The effect is soothing, allowing for the quick onset of sleep, especially for those suffering from anxiety and a restless spirit.
Zizyphi Spinosi Semen
Zizyphi Spinosi Semen is the principal herb in Suan Zao Ren. Its effects have been studied by Western science for its sedative qualities. In a 2007 study published in the Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin, researchers found the activating agent in Zizyphi Spinosi Semen to be the alkaloidic compound sanjoinine A, which indirectly prolonges sleeping time as well as decreases the time it takes to get to sleep.
Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan
Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan is an oft-prescribed Chinese combination for insomnia caused by too little yin and too much heat from blood. The International Chinese Medical Journal of Daytona notes in a 2003 review of insomnia that this treatment is especially useful for those suffering from nervousness and vivid, disturbing dreams.
Bai Zi Ren
Bai Zi Ren is a sweet herb that rivals Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan in its ability to balance yin and heart. In fact, these two herbs are often used together, according to Yifan Yang MD, author of "Chinese Herbal Medicines." Restlessness, nightsweats and anxiety are softened through this herb's balancing properties. As with all herbs, it is recommended to see a licensed practitioner as opposed to experimenting with these herbs yourself, as the tenets of Chinese medicine are not simply linked to symptoms, but to personality, mood and other individual variables.
References
- International Academy of Medical Acupuncture: SL-749
- WebSciences International: Sanjoinine A isolated from Zizyphi spinosi semen augments pentobarbital-induced sleeping behaviors through the modification of GABA-ergic systems
- The International Chinese Medical Journal of Daytona: Insomnia and Clinically Useful Patent Chinese Herbal Medicines
- "Chinese Herbal Medicines"; Yifan Yang M.D., 2002
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