TCM for Insomnia

TCM Treatment for Insomnia

Improving Your Sleep Quality Through Natural Therapies

Insomnia is more than just "poor sleep"; it is a significant issue affecting both physical and mental health. Many sufferers also experience a range of symptoms such as dizziness, forgetfulness, tinnitus, menstrual irregularities, and weight fluctuations. As the pace of modern life in Singapore accelerates and work pressure intensifies, insomnia has become increasingly prevalent. More local residents are choosing TCM for insomnia as a natural therapy that focuses on root-cause regulation without side effects.

The number of people suffering from insomnia in Singapore has been rising annually. Clinical observations suggest that approximately 20% of adults experience insomnia, with a slightly higher prevalence among women, typically aged between 30 and 55. Insomnia not only affects daytime productivity and emotional regulation but can also lead to endocrine imbalances, weakened immunity, and is even linked to chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, anxiety, and depression.

How TCM Views Insomnia

In TCM theory, insomnia is referred to as "Bu Mei" (Sleeplessness). TCM believes that sleep quality depends on the coordination of Yin and Yang within the body: "When Yang enters Yin, there is sleep; when Yang fails to enter Yin, there is sleeplessness." Factors such as long-term emotional distress, overthinking, improper diet, aging, or chronic illness can lead to an imbalance of Yin and Yang. This damages the functions of the Heart, Spleen, Liver, and Kidneys, causing "unsettled spirit" (Xin Shen Bu Ning), which results in insomnia.

Common clinical patterns include:

Heart and Spleen Deficiency

Caused by overthinking and insufficient Qi/blood. Symptoms include difficulty falling asleep, forgetfulness, and a pale complexion.

Yin Deficiency with Pathogenic Fire

Characterized by night sweats, irritability, waking up easily, and a red tongue with little coating.

Liver Qi Stagnation Transforming into Fire

Marked by irritability, anger, chest tightness, and vivid dreams during sleep.

Phlegm-Heat Disturbing the Heart

Often due to a greasy diet; symptoms include heavy limbs, chest oppression, and restless sleep.

TCM Treatment Approaches for Insomnia

TCM treatment for insomnia follows the principle of "Syndrome Differentiation," emphasizing personalized regulation to balance Yin and Yang. This is achieved through Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture, diet therapy, and emotional counseling.

1. Chinese Herbal Medicine

Depending on the specific type of insomnia, classic formulas are used to calm the mind, nourish Yin, tonify blood, or clear fire:

Heart & Spleen Deficiency: Gui Pi Tang or Suan Zao Ren Tang.
Yin Deficiency & Fire: Liu Wei Di Huang Wan or Huang Lian E Jiao Tang.
Liver Stagnation & Fire: Long Dan Xie Gan Tang or Chai Hu Shu Gan San.
Phlegm-Heat: Wen Dan Tang.

Modern research shows these formulas regulate the neuroendocrine system, helping patients fall asleep naturally.

2. Acupuncture for Insomnia

Acupuncture is a vital tool for insomnia, offering rapid, safe results without drug dependency. Clinical points often include Shenmen, Sanyinjiao, Anmian, Baihui, and Yintang. Acupuncture balances the excitation and inhibition of the cerebral cortex and promotes the secretion of neurotransmitters like serotonin and melatonin.

3. Psychological & Lifestyle Adjustment

Since emotional distress is a major cause of insomnia, physician guidance on sleep hygiene, stress management, and traditional exercises like Baduanjin are integrated to enhance the treatment's effectiveness.

Advantages of TCM for Insomnia

Personalized Regulation

Treats insomnia while addressing related imbalances like anxiety, constipation, or menstrual issues.

No Side Effects

Gentle and safe; avoids the dependency and daytime drowsiness often associated with sleeping pills.

Addresses the Root Cause

Focuses on harmonizing the internal organs and balancing Qi and blood rather than just inducing sleep.

Complementary to Modern Medicine

A safe and effective adjunct therapy for those already on medication or with refractory insomnia.

Case Study

Effective Regulation of Heart-Spleen Deficiency Insomnia

A 40-year-old female patient suffered from insomnia for two years, struggling to fall asleep and experiencing light sleep. She was dependent on sleeping pills, felt irritable, and suffered from daytime lethargy, tinnitus, and weight gain. Dr Li Rui diagnosed her with 'Heart and Spleen Deficiency' and prescribed Gui Pi Tang combined with twice-weekly acupuncture. After one month, she successfully tapered off her medication, her sleep depth improved significantly, her menstrual cycle normalized, and she felt mentally revitalized.

Dr Li Rui

MOH-registered TCM physician with a Master’s degree from the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences and over 30 years of clinical experience

Dr Li Rui is a senior TCM physician with over 30 years of clinical experience. She holds a Master's degree in TCM and a Bachelor's degree in Western Medicine. She specializes in internal medicine and gynecological regulation, particularly in treating insomnia, anxiety, menopausal syndrome, and menstrual disorders. Dr Li combines traditional formulas with modern research to help patients regain health and reduce drug dependency.

About Our Physician

Get In Touch With Us

Reclaim Your Healthy Sleep

If you are struggling with insomnia, we welcome you to book an appointment with Dr Li Rui at our Singapore clinic for a personalized TCM plan. We believe natural therapy can help you restore balance and regain high-quality sleep.

Locate Us

Shanghai Chinese Medicine Centre

Blk 925 Yishun Central 1
#01-243
Singapore 760925

Call Us

+65 6756 1528

Email Us

info@tcm-shanghai.com.sg

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