TCM Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine’s understanding and approach to insomnia.
Insomnia is a common ailment that affects millions of individuals around the world. While the occasional sleepless night is a normal part of life, chronic insomnia can lead to a host of physical and emotional issues, including fatigue, anxiety, and decreased quality of life. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach to understanding and treating insomnia, focusing on restoring balance within your body through acupuncture and herbal remedies.
The TCM Perspective on Insomnia
In TCM, insomnia is viewed as a symptom of underlying imbalances in the body rather than a standalone condition. The root causes can often be traced back to disturbances in the heart, kidneys, liver, and spleen, which can lead to either an excess of Yang energy or a deficiency of Yin energy. This imbalance can manifest as difficulty falling asleep, frequently wakening during the night, or waking too early in the morning.
The heart is considered the “Emperor” of the body in TCM, governing the mind and emotions. If the heart is weak or disturbed, it can result in anxiety and restlessness. The kidneys, associated with Yin energy, play a crucial role in nourishing the heart. If the kidney Yin is deficient, it can lead to an excess of heat that disturbs the mind, causing insomnia. Similarly, the liver is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi and emotions; if it becomes stagnant, it can lead to irritability and sleep disturbances.
Both acupuncture and herbal medicine treatment produce reliable results in many different types of insomnia.
Acupuncture as a Treatment for Insomnia
Acupuncture is a key component of TCM. For insomnia, practitioners often select points that calm the mind, nourish the heart, and strengthen the kidneys. Key acupuncture points for treating insomnia include:
- Shenmen (HT7): Located on the wrist, this point helps calm the mind and relieve anxiety.
- Sanyinjiao (SP6): Found on the inner side of the leg, this point is excellent for nourishing Yin and promoting relaxation.
- Anmian: This “peaceful sleep” point is located behind the ear and is specifically used to treat insomnia and anxiety.
During acupuncture sessions many patients report feeling a sense of relaxation and calm both during and after the treatment.
Chinese Herbal Medicine for Insomnia
Chinese herbal medicine provides effective treatment for reducing insomnia. Herbal formulas can be used as both a standalone treatment and alongside acupuncture. Formulas often include herbs such as Suan Zao Ren (Sour Jujube Seed), Bai Zi Ren (Arborvitae Seed), and Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis), which can nourish the heart and liver, calm the spirit, and promote restful sleep. TCM practitioners can tailor your herbal prescriptions to meet your individual specific needs alongside addressing the root cause of your insomnia.
At the Jade Centre we see many patients each year to help them to manage their health. Contact us now and book an appointment to get the support you need,
