Insomnia is a common condition that affects many people worldwide. In Chinese Medicine, insomnia is viewed as a symptom rather than a disease. Chinese Medicine recognises different types of insomnia, each with its unique set of causes and symptoms. The treatment of insomnia in Chinese Medicine is tailored to the specific type of insomnia, and this often involves a combination of herbal medicine, acupuncture, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications. Some of the common syndromes of insomnia in Chinese Medicine and some basic self-help tips to improve sleep are below:

Heart and Spleen Disharmony

This type of insomnia is characterised by difficulty falling asleep, waking up frequently during the night, and vivid dreaming. It can be caused by emotional imbalances such as worry, overthinking, and anxiety, which disrupt the harmony between the Heart and Spleen organs. To improve sleep, individuals can practice meditation, deep breathing exercises, and gentle yoga to calm their minds and reduce stress levels. They should also avoid eating heavy, greasy foods and instead focus on eating lighter meals with plenty of vegetables and fruits.

Liver Qi Stagnation

This type of insomnia is caused by a blockage of Qi (energy) in the liver, leading to irritability, frustration, and a feeling of being emotionally stuck. Individuals may also experience chest discomfort, abdominal distention, and headaches. To improve sleep, individuals can practice relaxation techniques such as Tai Chi or Qi Gong, avoid caffeine and alcohol, and eat foods that promote the smooth flow of Qi, such as ginger, turmeric, and lemon.

Kidney Yin and Heart Yin Deficiency

This type of insomnia is caused by a deficiency of Yin energy in the Kidney and Heart organ. Individuals may experience symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, dry mouth and throat, palpitations and a feeling of restlessness. To improve sleep, individuals can eat foods that nourish Yin, such as black beans, goji berries, and spinach. They should also avoid spicy and greasy foods, caffeine, and alcohol. Additionally, individuals can try drinking herbal teas such as chamomile, lavender, or passionflower, which are known to have calming effects.

Phlegm-Heat

This type of insomnia is caused by the accumulation of phlegm and heat in the body, leading to symptoms such as restlessness, irritability, and a feeling of heaviness in the head. Individuals may also experience vivid dreams, dizziness, and a bitter taste in the mouth. To improve sleep, individuals should avoid spicy and greasy foods, alcohol, and caffeine. They can also try eating cooling foods such as watermelon, cucumber, and celery, and drinking herbal teas such as mint and chrysanthemum.

Blood Deficiency

This type of insomnia is caused by a deficiency of Blood in the body, leading to symptoms such as difficulty falling asleep, fatigue, dizziness, and palpitations. Individuals may also experience a pale complexion, dry skin, and brittle nails. To improve sleep, individuals can eat foods that nourish Blood, such as red dates, goji berries, and black beans. They should also avoid strenuous exercise, late-night work, and excessive screen time before bed.

In conclusion, Chinese Medicine recognises different types of insomnia, each with its unique set of causes and symptoms. The treatment of insomnia in Chinese Medicine is tailored to the specific type of insomnia, and this often involves a combination of herbal medicine, acupuncture, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications. However, individuals can also apply basic self-help tips such as acupressure, relaxation techniques, dietary adjustments, and herbal remedies to improve their sleep. If you are experiencing insomnia, it is important to consult with a qualified practitioner of Chinese Medicine, such as those at Health in Flow Chinese Medicine in Melbourne CBD, to receive personalised assessment and treatment.

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash