Insomnia

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• Signs & Symptoms
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Executive Summary

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Write an executive summary in the form of a blog article on the topic of "Research into Chinese medicine treatment for Insomnia" summarising the research below and using language that can be easily understood by patients and avoiding medical jargon using a professional and caring tone of voice.

Write an executive summary in the form of a blog article on the topic of "Researched Chinese medicine treatments for Insomnia" summarising the research below in an objective and easy to understand way, and using language that can be easily understood by patients. Group the article into Chinese medicine treatments first, followed by nutrition and other treatments. Avoid using medical jargon and use a professional and caring tone of voice.

Write me a concise but easy to understand executive summary on the topic of "Chinese medicine treatments for Insomnia" based on the following research that I will give you. Your summary should be 2 paragraphs long in Australian English spelling and include references to the studies.

A Data Mining published in 2026 in the journal Brain Research found that Chronic Insomnia Disorder is marked by poor integration within the default mode network, with herbal medicine and Estazolam showing differing effects on neural homogeneity in the brain. The researchers utilized resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging to examine network homogeneity in the default mode network among 82 Chronic Insomnia Disorder patients and 65 healthy controls. 52 patients were treated with a type of herbal medicine known as Modified Suanzaoren Decoction, while 30 received Estazolam. Network homogeneity was calculated for the default mode network, and the researchers noted differences at baseline, changes following treatment, and correlations with clinical outcome scores. A machine learning model was also used to determine whether network homogeneity features could help differentiate patients from healthy controls. In terms of results, at the start, patients with Chronic Insomnia Disorder showed wide-ranging abnormal homogeneity in different regions of the default mode network when compared to healthy individuals. After treatment, an increase in homogeneity was observed in two specific areas across both patient groups. Most notably, a distinction was noted in one region where network homogeneity increased following herbal treatment, but decreased with Estazolam. Baseline homogeneity in certain regions positively correlated with the severity of insomnia and anxiety. The machine learning model successfully distinguished patients from healthy controls based on network homogeneity features.

A Randomised Controlled Trial published in 2026 in the journal General Psychiatry found that The addition of electroacupuncture and transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation can yield significantly improved mental health symptoms in women who have experienced domestic violence. The study was conducted as a randomised controlled trial in Hong Kong, China and involved 110 Chinese women who had undergone domestic violence and had major depressive disorder. The participants were separated into two groups, one receiving care as usual alone, and the other receiving care as usual supplemented with two electroacupuncture sessions and three transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation sessions per week for 12 weeks. Outcomes were measured using tools such as the Beck Depression Inventory-II, 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, 10-item Perceived Stress Scale, PTSD Check List-Civilian Version, Insomnia Severity Index, and the 12-item Short Form Survey for health-related quality of life. In the results, it was found that at the end of the 12 weeks, the group that received the supplementary stimulation treatments had a significantly greater reduction in their depression scores, perceived stress, PTSD symptoms, insomnia severity and improvement in quality of life, compared to the group that received care as usual. In addition, the group receiving the stimulation treatment also showed significantly higher rates of clinical response and remission at the end of the study. No serious adverse events were related to the treatments.

A Clinical Study published in 2026 in the journal Brain and Behavior found that The study found that traditional Chinese medicine and benzodiazepines alleviate insomnia differently, with the former easing hyperarousal states and the latter triggering adaptive regulation for quick sedation. The methodology of this study involved 82 patients with chronic insomnia disorder and 80 healthy controls. The patients with insomnia were split into two groups where one received a traditional Chinese medicine treatment called modified suanzaoren decoction and the other group was given estazolam, a commonly used insomnia treatment, for a total of six weeks. The research team used Granger causality analysis anchored on precuneus subregions to identify changes in effective connectivity before and after treatment. Further, a neuroimaging-transcription association analysis was carried out to identify potential gene linkages with these alterations in brain connectivity. The results of the analysis showed increased effective connectivity from the precuneus to the right postcentral/precentral gyrus and left lingual gyrus in patients with insomnia compared to healthy controls. Conversely, decreased effective connectivity from certain areas like the bilateral postcentral/precentral gyrus, right cerebellum crus VIIB, and right calcarine cortex to the precuneus were seen. Post-treatment, there were significant changes in connectivity from the bilateral midcingulate cortex to the precuneus, as well as from the bilateral midcingulate cortex, left postcentral gyrus, and right supramarginal gyrus to the precuneus. The researchers found genes associated with these effective connectivities. Overall, the findings suggest that the abnormal connectivity between the precuneus and areas in the sensory-motor and visual networks could be indicative of hyperarousal states and compensatory responses in insomnia. The traditional Chinese medicine appeared to reduce the hyperarousal state, whereas benzodiazepines brought about adaptive regulation due to their immediate sedative effects.

A Experimental Study published in 2026 in the journal Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis found that Suanzaoren Tang may alleviate insomnia by balancing neurotransmitters, and suppressing inflammation and oxidative stress, possibly through gut microbiota-metabolite-brain axis modulation and glial cell activity restoration. An integrated multi-omics approach was employed, starting with UPLC-ESI-MS/MS analysis to identify the compounds present in Suanzaoren Tang (SZRT). The study induced insomnia in rats by intraperitoneal administration of p-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA). Behavioral evaluations were conducted to judge sleep quality, alongside ELISA and immunofluorescence procedures to detect changes in neurotransmitter and inflammatory marker levels, respectively. Further methodologies included untargeted metabolomics and 16S rRNA sequencing to elucidate SZRT's effect on gut microbiota composition and various metabolic pathways. The study found that treatment using PCPA significantly extended sleep latency and altered neurochemical profiles of the subjects, demonstrated through decreased levels of neurotransmitters γ-aminobutyric acid and 5-hydroxytryptamine, and increased levels of glutamate, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and CYP2E1 expression. Immunofluorescence further revealed reduced glial cell function and associated serotonergic dysregulation in the PCPA group. The intervention of SZRT, however, reversed these changes. In addition, PCPA was found to disrupt gut microbial composition, the adverse effects of which were remedied by SZRT administration. Through metabolomics, the study identified key differentiated metabolites that hinted at SZRT's restoration of neurotransmitter homeostasis and reduced inflammation through microbiota-metabolite interactions.

A Cohort Study published in 2026 in the journal Medicine found that Suanzaoren decoction appears to improve sleep quality and reduce fatigue in lung cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy with some benefits also observed in objective sleep parameters. In this retrospective study, clinical data were collected from hospitalized patients with lung cancer who reported sleep disturbances. From this dataset, 38 patients who received Suanzaoren decoction as part of their treatment in addition to standard care were compared to 37 patients who only received standard care. Sleep quality was evaluated using a specific sleep quality assessment tool, and fatigue levels were assessed using a cancer fatigue scale. For patients with available data, objective sleep parameters were also tracked using actigraphy monitoring. The primary findings of the study showed that patients who were administered Suanzaoren decoction had notably lower scores in sleep quality assessment after treatment compared to the control group. Similarly, their fatigue scores were also considerably lower. Actigraphy-informed parameters indicated that total sleep duration and the proportion of deep sleep were higher in the group that received the Suanzaoren decoction. No adverse reactions were recorded in the study.

A Experimental Study published in 2026 in the journal Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that Zhichi Suanzaoren Decoction, a traditional Chinese medicine, alleviates insomnia and anxiety by restoring hippocampal astrocyte cilia through Foxj1 upregulation. Methodology: The primary components of Zhichi Suanzaoren Decoction were analyzed in both positive and negative ion modes using Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography-Quadrupole-Time of Flight/Mass Spectrometry. A perimenopausal insomnia model was established through bilateral ovariectomy in mice, which was then treated with the decoction. The team conducted behavioral tests and sleep synergy experiments to assess the anti-insomnia and anxiolytic effects of the decoction. Further, to investigate the mechanistic details, techniques such as ELISA, Nissl staining, immunohistochemistry, transcriptome sequencing, immunofluorescence staining, qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and adeno-associated virus-mediation were employed. Results: The analyses indicated the presence of 97 chemical components in the aqueous extract of the decoction. The treatment improved sleep, reduced anxiety in mice, increased the levels of GABA in the hippocampus, and decreased serum ACTH, CORT, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β levels. Further, the decoction displayed a protective effect on hippocampal neurons and reduced neuroinflammation. On a transcriptomic and protein level, the decoction was shown to inhibit Wnt signaling by promoting Foxj1 expression and restoring primary cilia in astrocytes. This dual effect led to the activation of the GSK-3β/GR signaling pathway, restoring HPA axis function and reversing glucocorticoid resistance, and to the suppression of β-catenin nuclear translocation and astrocyte-driven neuroinflammation.

A Clinical Study published in 2026 in the journal Brain Research found that Suanzaoren decoction improves sleep quality in chronic insomnia disorder patients, who showed altered sensorimotor network function linked to multiple neurotransmitter systems. In the methodology, two groups of chronic insomnia disorder (CID) patients, totaling 82 individuals, and 54 healthy controls were studied. One group of CID patients received Suanzaoren decoction (SZRD) while the other received estazolam, both over a span of six weeks. The groups were analyzed for functional connectivity (FC) and effective connectivity (EC) in the sensorimotor network (SMN). Transcriptome-neuroimaging correlation analysis was also utilized to identify the associated gene profile and neurotransmitter distributions in relation to the changes in FC and EC values. In the discussions of the results, the study found that SZRD treatment effectively improved sleep quality in the CID patients. Additionally, it was seen that CID patients showed significant differences in the FC and EC of SMN compared to healthy controls. Interestingly, these differences were related to multiple neurotransmitter systems. Moreover, specific genes linked to FC and EC among CID patients were identified and these were mainly involved in the biological processes like synaptic and ion transmission. It was also found that estazolam somehow altered the EC from the right fusiform gyrus to the left lateral SMN among CID patients, while SZRD treatment had minimal influence on SMN-related changes.

A Data Mining published in 2025 in the journal Asian Journal of Psychiatry found that Suanzaoren decoction, a traditional Chinese medicine, enhances cognitive function and improves Chronic Insomnia Disorder symptoms by adjusting brain functions. In the methodology, 82 patients diagnosed with Chronic Insomnia Disorder and 54 healthy controls were examined using fMRI scans before and after a six-week treatment with either suanzaoren decoction or estazolam. Changes in brain function were evaluated with a mixed-effects model analysis. Machine learning and transcriptome-neuroimaging spatial correlation analysis were employed to predict the effectiveness of the treatment and to understand its connection with specific genetic profiles. In discussing the results, it was noted that the Chronic Insomnia Disorder patients exhibited differences in certain parts of the brain compared to the healthy controls. Both treatment groups saw improvements in their sleep duration and efficiency. However, only the group treated with suanzaoren decoction exhibited distinct changes in specific areas of the brain, with the researchers concluding that these abnormal ReHo changes might serve as imaging markers for Chronic Insomnia Disorder and help predict both drug efficacy and related gene expression profiles.

A Clinical Study published in 2025 in the journal Frontiers in Psychiatry found that Modified suanzaoren decoction (SZRD) and esazolam were equally effective in treating chronic insomnia but the latter excelled in improving subjective sleep quality. Methodology: In this study, 80 participants diagnosed with chronic insomnia disorder were divided into two treatment groups. One group was treated with the traditional Chinese medicine, modified suanzaoren decoction (SZRD), and the other group received esazolam tablets. The treatment duration was 6 weeks. Several indices, including the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Insomnia Severity Index, Hamilton Anxiety Scale, Hamilton Depression Scale, and polysomnographic measures, were recorded. These metrics helped assess the changes in sleep, mood, and cognitive function amongst the subjects. Results: Comparing within each group, both treatments showed improvements in subjective sleep, depression, anxiety, immediate and delayed memory scores. However, when comparing between the groups, a significant difference was noted in subjective sleep quality scores. The study demonstrated an increase in the duration of N3 stage (deep sleep) in both groups, showing equal efficacy in improving deep sleep. However, when assessing stability over time, esazolam had higher predictive stability in improving subjective sleep quality, while SZRD had higher predictive stability in maintaining slow-wave (N3 stage) sleep.

A Data Mining published in 2025 in the journal The World Journal of Biological Psychiatry found that The treatment of chronic insomnia disorder, through pharmacotherapy, influences the functional activity in different parts of the patient's brain. In the methodology, the research used imaging data and clinical variables from 82 patients with chronic insomnia disorder and 54 healthy controls. The patients were treated with either a modified Suanzaoren decoction or estazolam for six weeks. Using a variety of techniques including the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations, Wavelet-ALFF, and fractional ALFF, the spontaneous brain activity of the participants was evaluated. Additionally, machine learning and cross-sample transcriptomic analyses were conducted. In the discussion of results, it was found that compared to healthy controls, patients with chronic insomnia disorder showed increased functional activity in parts of the brain such as the left precuneus/posterior cingulate cortex, left superior parietal gyrus, and bilateral angular gyrus - and decreased activity in the right inferior parietal gyrus and bilateral middle frontal gyrus. It was further noted that after undergoing pharmacotherapy, patients who were given the modified Suanzaoren decoction exhibited increased activity in the left middle occipital gyrus compared to their initial state. Therefore, it can be suggested that variances in brain activity in areas of the default mode network, frontoparietal network, and visual network may contribute to the mechanisms of pathology and treatment of chronic insomnia disorder.

A Experimental Study published in 2025 in the journal Frontiers in Pharmacology found that Traditional Chinese medicine, specifically Jiawei Suanzaoren Tang, demonstrates a significant therapeutic effect on people with perimenopausal insomnia characterized by yin deficiency and fire excess. The study first enrolled 80 cases of perimenopausal insomnia with yin deficiency and fire excess type, then divided them into two groups - a control group treated with lorazepam and a treatment group given Jiawei Suanzaoren decoction over 4 weeks. Several key metrics were observed before and after the treatment, including sleep quality, hormone levels, and certain symptoms. Alongside this, the study conducted a network pharmacology analysis where they used public databases to find targets associated with Jiawei Suanzaoren Tang as well as those predicted as insomnia targets, ultimately identifying enriched gene pathways and networks. An animal study involving rats was also conducted, using 30 perimenopausal insomnia rat models, comparing the effects of normal saline, lorazepam suspension, and Jiawei Suanzaoren decoction. In observation, the sleep condition and hormone level changes were significantly different between the treatment and control groups. The findings suggest that Jiawei Suanzaoren Tang could improve sleep by regulating the neuroactive ligand receptor interaction signaling pathway, inhibiting relevant proteins. They also observed that the decoction could significantly improve the sleep conditions of perimenopausal rats with insomnia and impact the level of specific hormone receptors in the hypothalamus. The mechanism seems to be linked to the regulation of specific hormones and the expression levels of certain receptors in the hypothalamus.

A Randomised Controlled Trial published in 2024 in the journal Military Medicine found that Sleep disorder symptoms, including sleep apnea and insomnia, significantly influence the outcomes of stress treatment among post-deployment military service members. In a two-arm, single-center, randomized controlled trial conducted in Okinawa, Japan, active duty service members from all military branches were examined for the impact of sleep disorders on stress treatment outcomes. Using the Global Sleep Assessment Questionnaire and the Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist, researchers assessed the relationship between sleep disorders and post-traumatic stress symptoms (PSS). Participants' sleep disorder symptoms were evaluated prior to intervention. Results show a strong correlation between sleep disorder symptoms, including excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty sleeping due to work conditions, involuntary movements during sleep, and feelings of anxiety or sadness, and PSS outcomes. The presence of these symptoms, together with factors such as demanding work schedules, possible sleep apnea, insomnia, anxiety, and depression, contributed significantly to the effectiveness of PSS treatment. These findings suggest that addressing sleep disorders could potentially enhance PSS treatment responses in service members.

A Experimental Study published in 2024 in the journal Frontiers in Neuroscience found that Suanzaoren Decoction, a traditional Chinese herbal formulation, can improve insomnia and depression by modifying gut microbiome and balancing metabolic pathways associated with both disorders. Through utilizing ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, the research examines 66 chemical constituents within Suanzaoren Decoction, a popular traditional Chinese herbal formulation. The experiment uses various dosages of Suanzaoren Decoction on rat models presenting symptoms of insomnia and depression. Injecting low-dose Suanzaoren Decoction substantially improves insomnia symptoms while administration of a high-dose significantly alleviates depressive behaviors in the experimental subjects. The research also observes significant changes in the gut microbiota of the experimental subjects, characterized by an enlarged population of bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids. Additionally, they found metabolic profiles indicating imbalance in affected rats, especially noticeable in reduced levels of certain amino acid metabolites and modifications in neurotransmitter metabolism within the brain. Suanzaoren Decoction restores a healthy balance in gut microbiota, reestablishes fecal short-chain fatty acid levels, and corrects metabolic disturbances in both body fluid and brain tissue. This highlights how regulation of gut microbiome and metabolic pathways are key areas through which the therapeutic effects of Suanzaoren Decoction are mediated, forming a scientific rationale for its usage in managing insomnia and depression.

A Experimental Study published in 2024 in the journal Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that Suanzaoren Decoction (SZRD), a traditional Chinese prescription, behaves differently in the system of healthy rats compared to depression model rats, providing insight into its potential as a treatment for depression. Researchers used an ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-Orbitrap Mass Spectometry method to study the prototype components and metabolites of SZRD in various samples taken from both healthy and depression model rats. They were subsequently able to speculate on possible metabolic pathways. In addition, a network pharmacological study was conducted on the components present in the plasma of the model rats. Certain components screened by network pharmacology, along with other representative active components, were identified for a comparative pharmacokinetic study. To cement the results, molecular docking was used to analyse the binding affinity between potential key targets and active components. In the study, a total of 115 components were identified in healthy rats, while 101 components were identified in model rats. Notably, there were differences observed in the prototype components and metabolites across plasma, brain, urine, and feces samples between the two groups of rats. The study defined the main metabolic pathways including phase I and phase II metabolic reactions. Further, it was predicted that 10 components and 10 core targets were linked to critical pathways such as the neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, cAMP signaling pathway, serotonergic synapse, and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. This information provided a foundation for the further exploration of the antidepressive action of SZRD. Finally, the research provided promising indications regarding the pharmacokinetic behavior of seven key active components, showing differences between healthy and depressed rats after the administration of SZRD.

A Cohort Study published in 2023 in the journal Nutrients found that Long-term consumption of green tea can potentially lessen the risk of depression in postmenopausal women by decreasing inflammation and boosting estradiol levels. In the study, researchers performed an analysis on a tea-producing village, incorporating 386 postmenopausal women in the investigation, who participated either as green tea consumers or non-drinkers (control group). The level of estradiol, inflammation markers, sleep quality, and depression symptoms were measured to uncover any correlations. The results reflected significant disparities between the tea-drinking and control groups in terms of depression and insomnia levels, BMI, inflammation levels, and estradiol quantities. By appraising these outcomes, it was found that green tea intake could quell the likelihood of depression via its impact on sleep, inflammation, and estradiol levels. The risk of depression was consequently seen as reduced among postmenopausal women engaging in regular consumption of green tea.

A Randomised Controlled Trial published in 2023 in the journal Medicine found that The Modified Suanzaoren decoction effectively improves cognitive function in stroke patients with insomnia possibly by regulating hormones in brain-body communication pathways. In the methodology of this research study, a total of 80 participants, all of whom suffered from cognitive impairment and insomnia following stroke, were randomly divided into two groups. The treatment group was treated with the Modified Suanzaoren decoction while the control group received zolpidem. Over a period of four weeks, the cognitive function, sleep quality, depression, and anxiety disorders of each group were examined, while also evaluating stroke severity and functional independence. Hormone levels in the brain-body communication pathways were also monitored. In regard to the results, the study found that the Modified Suanzaoren decoction had a more positive impact on cognitive improvement than the control group, while the two groups had a similar effect on mitigating insomnia. No significant differences were observed between the groups in daily living activities and stroke severity improvement. Further, the treatment group demonstrated superior improvement in depressive states and showed more significant reductions in cortisol levels. Improved levels of a hormone produced by the thyroid gland were also more significant in the treatment group than the control group. Despite some participants dropping out, these distinctions remained noteworthy.

A Systematic Review published in 2023 in the journal Current Sleep Medicine Reports found that There is evidence to support significant improvements to total sleep time and sleep efficiency with the ingestion of tart cherries. We identified a total of 277 unique records, from which 8 studies of low-moderate methodological quality were included in the systematic review. Meta-analysis of subjectively recalled sleep efficiency (SE) and total sleep time (TST) were not significant. Objective SE, however, was significantly higher in the cherry cohort when compared to placebo with an effect size of 0.63 (95% CI 0.29–0.97, P < 0.01). There was low associated heterogeneity (I2 = 0%). Objective TST was significantly higher in the cherry cohorts, with a pooled effect size of 1.21 (95% CI 0.83–1.58, P < 0.01). There was high associated heterogeneity (I2 = 81.5%).

A Theoretical Article published in 2023 in the journal Sleep Medicine Clinics found that Acupuncture may enhance the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for people suffering from insomnia and related conditions. The research methodology used in this paper is mainly a theoretical analysis and discussion of the potential synergistic effects of combining cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) and acupuncture. This involves analysis of the current evidence base for the efficacy of acupuncture in treating insomnia and related conditions, along with examination of the practical, logistical, and regulatory aspects of combining these two treatments. In the discussion of their results, the researchers found that there is a growing body of evidence that supports the potential benefit of acupuncture in treating insomnia and its comorbidities, enhancing the current standard treatment approach of CBT-I. This appears to be an innovative approach that could potentially enhance the treatment effectiveness and outcomes for those struggling with insomnia, though it concurrently raises complex issues in terms of its practical and regulatory implementation.

A Systematic Review published in 2023 in the journal Frontiers in Psychiatry found that Acupuncture, especially TEAS, is safer and more effective than medication for improving sleep quality in cancer related insomnia Acupuncture methods like transcutaneous electrical acupuncture stimulation (TEAS) and acupuncture+moxibustion were better for sleep than medication. Acupuncture had fewer side effects than medication with positive impact on canner-related insomnia linked to factors like melatonin regulation. Amongst all treatment types, TEAS was probably the more effective.

A Systematic Review published in 2023 in the journal Frontiers in Psychiatry found that Acupuncture and Moxibustion Show Promise for Chronic Renal Insufficiency Acupuncture and moxibustion emerge as effective and safe interventions for chronic renal insufficiency, with Transcutaneous Electrical Acupuncture Stimulation showing the highest potential for efficacy.

A Randomised Controlled Trial published in 2023 in the journal Frontiers in Public Health found that Acupuncture can improve both perimenopausal depression and insomnia with short-medium term effects while being a safe treatment. The experiment involved seventy eligible participants who were randomly assigned to either a real-acupuncture (RA) or a sham-acupuncture (SA) group. They were given 17 sessions of either RA or SA treatments over an 8-week timeframe. The primary outcomes for mood and sleep were evaluated using the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores. Secondary outcomes included an evaluation of anxiety symptoms, perimenopausal symptoms, and quality of life. Also, participants' experiences and overall satisfaction with treatment were assessed. Blood samples were collected as well to measure reproductive hormone levels. Reports indicate that 65 participants completed all treatment sessions while 54 and 41 participants completed the 8-week and 16-week follow-ups respectively. The results showed the RA group to have a bigger reduction of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores at post-treatment and 8-week follow-up compared to the sham-acupuncture group. Although, the change in the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale scores for the RA group wasn’t significantly different from the sham group. There were no significant mean differences for the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale or the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index between the two groups from the beginning to the 16th-week follow-up, nor were any differences noted in serum reproductive hormone levels among the groups. No major adverse events were reported.

A Experimental Study published in 2022 in the journal Gene found that The researchers developed a new system, AutoCircaS, that can effectively study sleep and rhythm in small animals and can screen for hypnotic sedatives. The researchers innovated a fresh system called AutoCircaS to examine various behaviors such as sleep, mating, and circadian rhythms in small animals like Drosophila flies and medaka fish. This was achieved through utilizing time-lapse imaging technology in a space unrestricted by confines of the traditional Drosophila Activity Monitor system. The system successfully detected insomnia in flies induced by caffeine, under both light-dark and constant dark conditions. The application of AutoCircaS led to significant improvements in caffeine-induced insomnia when the flies were treated with traditional Japanese herbal medicines such as KyushinKannouGan-ki, NouKassei, and Sansoninto. This suggests that AutoCircaS system can be extremely helpful in the analysis of sleep in small animals and in screening potential sedative-hypnotics from a wide variety of sources.

A Systematic Review published in 2022 in the journal Phytomedicine found that Acupuncture shows positive effects on cancer-related issues; research calls for further exploration of acupuncture's efficacy and safety, especially for conditions like depression, offering further potential support for cancer survivors This review summarizes evidence from 51 systematic reviews on acupuncture for cancer-related conditions. Acupuncture was found to have positive effects on various conditions such as cancer-related pain, fatigue, insomnia, nausea, and more. The methodological quality of the reviews was generally low, and some biases were identified. Acupuncture was considered safe, with only mild adverse events reported. In clinical practice, acupuncture can be a beneficial option for cancer survivors for certain conditions.

A Meta-Analysis published in 2022 in the journal Medicine found that Acupuncture using Lingguibafa acupoint selection shows notable improvements in various sleep parameters for individuals suffering from insomnia. The study conducted an extensive systematic search through multiple databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and more for randomized controlled trials that compared Lingguibafa acupoint selection acupuncture with dialectical acupoint selection acupuncture in treating insomnia. Two independent review authors extracted data and assessed each trial's quality. A meta-analysis was subsequently performed using random-effects models to calculate relative risks and weighted mean differences for categorical and continuous variables respectively. The inclusion of seven trials involving 468 patients showed that acupuncture with Lingguibafa acupoint selection either alone or combined with dialectical acupoint selection resulted in significant improvements in multiple sleep parameters, notably the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score. There were also substantial improvements in sleep quality, latency, and daytime function. However, it had no significant effect in treating sleep disorder and dependence on hypnotic drugs. While the overall total effectiveness rate was higher in the Lingguibafa acupoint selection group, the conclusion was deemed less credible due to the poor methodological quality across the trials.

A Systematic Review published in 2022 in the journal Computational Intelligence and Neuroscience found that Meta-analysis of TCM non-drug treatments like acupuncture and massage improved primary insomnia, reducing PSQI scores, and easing anxiety and depression. The effectiveness of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) non-drug therapies (acupuncture, moxibustion, massage, and auricular point pressing) were evaluated in treating primary insomnia. Results showed that TCM non-drug therapies significantly improved the PSQI score in insomnia patients, with a higher effective rate compared to the control groups. These therapies also demonstrated improvements in anxiety and depression.

A Systematic Review published in 2022 in the journal Journal of Pharmacopuncture found that Complementary therapies are generally effective and safe in treating insomnia with acupuncture being the most frequently effective form, often yielding results superior to western medicine, sham/placebo, and no treatment. The researchers conducted an extensive literature search using six different databases to gather systematic reviews and meta-analyses on the effectiveness and safety of complementary therapies for insomnia. Among the surveyed data, 30 systematic reviews/meta-analyses were chosen for the overview. An analysis using the PSQI was performed involving a significant number of randomized controlled trials and participants. The results confirm that complementary therapies had a positive impact on the PSQI scores in insomnia patients. Most of the reviews and meta-analyses reported positive results, with acupuncture being the most frequently effective form, often yielding results superior to western medicine, sham/placebo, and no treatment. However, the study discusses the presence of some methodological and reporting quality deficiencies in the systematic reviews and meta-analyses due to a lack of protocol registration and exclusions in study lists.

A Systematic Review published in 2022 in the journal Frontiers in Psychiatry found that Taijiquan significantly improves sleep quality in individuals suffering from insomnia, suggesting that Taijiquan offers a safe and effective intervention for addressing sleep-related issues. Taijiquan (Tai Chi) was found to be beneficial for improving insomnia, especially when compared to no treatment, simple exercise, or health education alone. Subgroup analysis revealed that Taijiquan was equally effective for both Americans and Chinese. However, further research is needed to explore the physiological mechanisms behind Taijiquan's impact on insomnia and to optimize its application in different populations and styles of Taijiquan.

A Review Article published in 2022 in the journal Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that Jujube nutrients may offer potential therapeutic benefits including antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory functions, and improving sleep quality and learning. The methodology used for this study involves a comprehensive review of existing research about Wild jujube, giving particular focus on its phytonutrients, biological functions, metabolism of bioactive compounds, and applications. The study does not seem to detail a specific experimental procedure, but instead bases its conclusions on existing literature. Various parts of the wild jujube plant, such as the fruits, seeds and leaves, were examined for their potential role as food, medicine, or health care aids. The results from the review suggest that the different parts of the wild jujube plant play many roles. The fruits have been noted for their antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, and as ingredients preventing aging. The mature seeds have been found to have potential beneficial effects on central nervous system diseases, particularly in the treatment of insomnia and the enhancement of learning and memory.

A Systematic Review published in 2022 in the journal BioMed Research International found that Traditional Chinese Medicine may play a significant role in alleviating symptoms of chronic insomnia in elderly patients. The methodology of this research was based on a comprehensive literature review and meta-analysis of a large number of Chinese and English databases including China Knowledge Network, Chongqing CQVIP, Wanfang database, Chinese Biomedical Literature database, PubMed and the Cochrane Library. The consistent inclusion criteria for all the researched articles were that they had to carry a randomized controlled trial of cognitive behavioral therapy for treating chronic insomnia, and be current up to December 2021. The results of the meta-analysis, based on 16 selected studies involving 1260 elderly patients suffering from insomnia, revealed that TCM played a potential role in alleviating senile insomnia. Compared to the control group, the experimental group reported significant improvements in several sleep parameters including a reduction in sleep latency, number of awakenings, increased total sleep time, improved sleep efficiency, a lowered Pittsburgh sleep quality index, and a promising effective rate. The insomnia severity index also showed a beneficial downturn for the experimental group, suggesting TCM as an effective treatment option for insomnia in elderly patients.

A Systematic Review published in 2022 in the journal Sleep Medicine found that Multiple acupuncture therapies, particularly acupoints catgut embedding, auricular acupressure + manual acupuncture, and electroacupuncture + acupoint application, significantly improve insomnia symptoms. In this research, a systematic literature search was conducted to extract data from 57 randomized controlled trials involving 4678 patients who underwent various acupuncture therapies for primary insomnia. The researchers independently screened the literature and performed a risk of bias assessment. Data from the trials were analyzed using R and Stata software, followed by an evidence assessment using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system. Results showed that various acupuncture therapies, particularly acupoints catgut embedding, auricular acupressure or auricular acupuncture plus manual acupuncture, and electroacupuncture plus acupoint application, showed better effectiveness in improving insomnia, compared to the usual treatments. However, differences between the therapies were considered small or insignificant. The most common minor adverse events reported were hematoma, pain, headache, and bleeding.

A Systematic Review published in 2022 in the journal Frontiers in Psychiatry found that Acupuncture can be a safe and effective alternative therapy to conventional drugs for improving sleep quality and relieving symptoms in patients with active depression. The research methodology involved a systematic review of randomized controlled trials focusing on the effect of acupuncture on depression-related insomnia. These studies were identified from seven different databases, dating up until December 2021. The papers included compared acupuncture to controls (waiting list or placebo/sham acupuncture) and conventional treatments (Western pharmacotherapy and/or cognitive-behavioral therapy) either alone or in combination with acupuncture. The analysis followed Cochrane criteria and encompassed a total of 21 trials, including 1,571 participants. Regarding results, it was found that acupuncture significantly reduced severity metrics of sleep quality and depression for patients who have active depression, compared with placebo-acupuncture. When contrasted with standard care (antidepressants and/or sleeping aids), acupuncture led to improvements in sleep quality and depressive symptom scores. However, for those suffering from the lingering symptoms of past or partially treated depression, the therapeutic benefits of acupuncture were minor and not statistically noteworthy. Unfortunately, no studies were found to review acupuncture's efficacy compared to cognitive-behavioral therapy or its potential synergistic effect when used concurrently.

A Systematic Review published in 2022 in the journal Medicine found that High prevalence of insomnia, anxiety, and depression among perimenopausal women, emphasizing the importance of exploring acupuncture as a potential green therapy for effectively addressing these interconnected issues. This passage discusses the prevalence of insomnia among perimenopausal women, its association with anxiety and depression, and the potential of acupuncture as a green therapy for treating these issues. The passage outlines the objectives and methods of a systematic review aiming to evaluate the efficacy of acupuncture in improving sleep quality and alleviating anxiety and depression in perimenopausal women, highlighting the need for safer alternatives to conventional medications and the significance of such a study.

A Experimental Study published in 2021 in the journal Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy found that Modified Suanzaoren Decoction (MSZRD), an improved traditional Chinese herbal recipe, effectively enhances sleep and regulates circadian rhythm disorders in mice experiencing insomnia. To evaluate MSZRD's impact, we established an insomnia model in ICR mice with 14 days of multifactorial stimulation and subsequent intraperitoneal injections of a PCPA suspension for two straight days. We then administered three different doses of MSZRD to these mice for 24 days. In addition to measuring the food intake and back temperature, behavioural tests and pentobarbital sodium-induced sleep tests were carried out. We used ELISA kits to measure the levels of Orexin-A, CRH, ACTH, CORT in the serum and 5-HT, DA, and NE, in the hypothalamus. Additionally, GABA and glutamic acid levels were assessed through high-performance liquid chromatography, and 5-HTR1A receptor and orexin receptor 2 antibody expressions were done via Western blotting and immunohistochemical staining. Lastly, we examined the hypothalamus tissue's histological changes through hematoxylin and eosin and Nissl staining. Observations revealed that MSZRD significantly improved sleep patterns, including latency and duration, mitigated circadian rhythm disruptions, enhanced the content of 5-HT and 5-HTR1A protein, and reduced DA and NE content in the hypothalamus of insomnia mice. Further, the treatment with MSZRD led to increased serum GABA concentration, evident from a decreased Glu/GABA ratio. The levels of HPA axis-related hormones, including CORT, ACTH, and CRH, were also lower. MSZRD led to a remarkable lowering of serum Orexin-A content and hypothalamic OX2R expression in insomnia mice, moreover, it resulted in visible improvements in the hypothalamus's histopathological changes. These revelations suggest MSZRD's potential in relieving insomnia symptoms by regulating Orexin-A expression, balancing HPA axis homeostasis, and modulating neurotransmitter release.

A Cohort Study published in 2021 in the journal Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience found that Stroke patients who received acupuncture had a lesser risk of insomnia across various demographic and medical variables. The study data was derived from the case database of a Chinese hospital, featuring stroke patients diagnosed between 2010 and 2019. These patients were sorted into two groups: one which received acupuncture and one which did not. The sorting was performed using a propensity score matching technique. Comparisons were made between the two groups using the incidence of insomnia as the primary indicator, with Cox regression analysis and the Kaplan-Meier method serving as the main analytical tools. The results indicated that stroke patients who underwent acupuncture treatments were less susceptible to insomnia as compared to counterparts who didn't receive acupuncture treatment. This decrease in the incidence of insomnia was observed across various categories such as genders, age groups, stroke types and stroke locations, with the acupuncture group displaying a significantly lesser cumulative incidence of insomnia.

A Randomised Controlled Trial published in 2021 in the journal Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that Lavandula angustifolia essential oil inhalation seemed to enhance overall sleep patterns, quality, and efficiency in postmenopausal women with insomnia. Methodology: 35 postmenopausal women, clinically diagnosed with insomnia, were recruited and divided into two groups - an Aroma Group and a Placebo Group - for a double-blind, randomized controlled trial. Over 29 days, participants in the Placebo Group inhaled sunflower oil, while participants in the Aroma Group inhaled lavender oil. Both groups were given sleep hygiene guidelines before embarking on the trial and received follow-up on a weekly basis. Evaluations were performed both pre- and post-intervention. Discussion of Results: No significant differences were noted between the two groups in terms of sleep quality. However, certain tendencies were observed. Aroma Group participants showed a noteworthy reduction in the time taken to fall asleep, depression levels and postmenopausal symptoms such as hot flashes. Moreover, polysomnography data showed increased sleep efficiency in comparison to initial levels. The improvement in sleep quality over time was observed in both groups, indicating that sleep hygiene instruction and weekly follow-ups played a significant role in influencing sleep patterns and quality.

A Systematic Review published in 2021 in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that The comprehensive evaluation results show that scalp acupuncture is effective in treating insomnia. A total of 21 studies were included in this study, and a total of 1606 cases were included. The comprehensive evaluation results show that scalp acupuncture is effective in treating insomnia. Compared with the control group, scalp acupuncture can significantly improve the effective rate of treating insomnia. The PSQI score subgroup analysis showed that the PSQI score of the head was significantly better than that of the drug and blank group, but there was no significant difference from other acupuncture methods. Sensitivity analysis showed that scalp acupuncture ameliorates the PSQI score better, but excluding any item had high heterogeneity. Meta regression analysis of PSQI score according to different intervention measures in the control group showed that the difference of intervention measures in the control group was the source of heterogeneity. In terms of adverse events, the scalp acupuncture group had no adverse events, which was significantly better than the control group. Based on this study, we found that scalp acupuncture is effective and safe in the treatment of insomnia.

A Systematic Review published in 2021 in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that Acupuncture improves perimenopausal sleep quality and symptoms, potentially a safe alternative or adjunct to hypnotic drugs, requiring further research validation. Certainly, here's a more concise summary: Acupuncture, alone or combined with hypnotic drugs, improves sleep for perimenopausal women more effectively than using only hypnotics. The reduction in PSQI scores (2.4 to 3.1 points) is clinically significant. However, uncertainties exist about acupuncture's hormonal effects due to limited data, and differences from Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) are unclear. Adverse events related to acupuncture are mild. The review's strength lies in comparing acupuncture with standard pharmacotherapy and focusing on common acupuncture methods. Yet, study limitations include small sizes, low quality, and high heterogeneity. The review suggests moderate evidence for acupuncture's positive effects. Acupuncture outperforms hypnotic drugs in reducing PSQI scores and improving perimenopausal symptoms, possibly through hormone regulation. However, exact mechanisms need further investigation. Acupuncture's role as an adjuvant therapy with hypnotics or HRT requires exploration. The absence of sham acupuncture limits understanding of placebo effects. Overall, acupuncture shows promise as a safe option to enhance sleep and manage menopause-related symptoms, but more research is needed for clarity.

A Network Pharmacology published in 2021 in the journal BioMed Research International found that The Suanzaoren decoction can potentially treat Parkinson's disease with sleep disorder through its multicomponent, multitarget, and multipathway characteristics, with key active components being quercetin and kaempferol. The study used a network pharmacology and molecular docking approach to explore the action of the Suanzaoren decoction (a traditional Chinese medicine) for Parkinson's disease with sleep disorder. Bioactive components and targets of the decoction were identified using Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology and standardized on the UniProt platform. Data about Parkinson's disease and Sleep disorder were collected from various databases creating a protein-protein interaction network with the STRING platform and Cytoscape software. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis and pathway analysis were then conducted using the DAVID platform and Cytoscape software. The key active ingredients and action targets of the drug were verified using molecular docking. The study found 135 Chinese herbal components and 41 corresponding targets useful for treating Parkinson's disease with sleep disorder using the decoction. The researchers identified 15 important signaling pathways, including the cancer pathway, TNF signaling pathway, PI3K-AKT signaling pathway, HIF-1 signaling pathway, and the Toll-like receptor signaling pathway. The main active compounds exhibited good affinity while binding to the representative targets, implying high effectiveness. These findings provide a detailed understanding of the Suanzaoren decoction's mechanisms at a molecular level, confirming its usefulness in treating Parkinson's disease with sleep disorder.

A Randomised Controlled Trial published in 2020 in the journal Nature and Science of Sleep found that Ten sessions of electroacupuncture can improve the sleep quality of patients with insomnia without serious adverse effects. Results of the current trial provide supportive evidence that electroacupuncture can be an effective, safe, and well-tolerated non-pharmacological intervention for insomnia, using validated placebo control and validated subjective questionnaires. Further long-term studies with objective sleep measures are needed for a more definitive conclusion.

A published in 2020 in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that Treatments according to traditional Chinese medicine syndrome differentiation can provide patients with individualized treatments for chronic fatigue syndrome. Currently, there are many methods for treating CFS with TCM, showing its advantages. On one hand, treatments according to syndrome differentiation are diverse and involve herbal decoctions and proprietary Chinese medicines. External treatments include moxibustion, acupuncture, tuina, cupping, and other treatments. Combination therapies include two or more external treatments combined and internal and external treatments combined, which are often better than monotherapies and can remedy deficiencies. However, the clinical manifestations of CFS are different. Although fatigue is the main manifestation, there are individual differences in the appearance of insomnia or muscle pain in some patients. Treatments according to syndrome differentiation can provide patients with individualized treatments. On the other hand, TCM often has the advantages of simplicity, effectiveness, convenience, and a lower cost.

A Systematic Review published in 2020 in the journal Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that Acupuncture was superior to sham/placebo acupuncture in treating insomnia. A total of 15 studies involving 1108 patients. Meta-analysis results showed that acupuncture therapy was superior to sham/placebo acupuncture in terms of improving Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), insomnia severity index (ISI), total sleep time (TST), sleep-onset latency (SOL), wake after sleep onset (WASO), sleep efficiency (SE), even during the follow-up period, acupuncture therapy was superior to sham/placebo acupuncture on PSQI. Based on the outcomes included in this study, the efficacy of acupuncture was superior to that of placebo acupuncture in treating insomnia. Types of acupuncture therapy and placebo may underestimate the efficacy of acupuncture in different ways.

A Randomised Controlled Trial published in 2020 in the journal Nature and Science of Sleep found that Acupuncture was shown to significantly improve the sleep quality in pregnant women, possibly through increasing melatonin secretion. Fifty-five of 72 participants completed the study. There was no statistically significant difference regarding PSQI score and 6-sulfatoxymelatonin level between intervention and control groups at the baseline. At the end of the study period, treatment with acupuncture significantly improved the PSQI score with a large effect size of 3.7, as well as 6-sulfatoxymelatonin level with a medium effect size of 0.6 as compared to the control group. No adverse effects were noted during acupuncture sessions and follow-up visits. Acupuncture was shown to significantly improve the sleep quality in pregnant women, possibly through increasing melatonin secretion, and could be recommended as a low-cost and low-risk alternative treatment to pharmacological therapies.

A Experimental Study published in 2020 in the journal Journal of Separation Science found that Suan-Zao-Ren decoction positively impacts insomnia by improving the metabolic phenotype and affecting key metabolic pathways. Firstly, a non-targeted metabolomics approach based on high-resolution mass spectrometry was combined with multiple statistical methods to study alterations in potential brain and serum biomarkers and metabolic pathways in rats with modelled insomnia. This process revealed that treatment with the Suan-Zao-Ren decoction promoted significant improvements in the metabolic phenotypes of insomnia. Fruther analysis, conducted using discriminative analysis in correlation with principal component analysis, termed principal component analysis-discriminate analysis, served to accentuate these effects. Subsequent heatmap (graphical representation of data) analysis helped identify primary biomarkers associated with insomnia. The results disclosed important alterations in several metabolic pathways linked with insomnia, such as phenylalanine and tryptophan metabolism, among others. This provided a comprehensive understanding of how Suan-Zao-Ren decoction regulates the metabolic phenotype of rats with insomnia, reinforcing the potential of metabolomics as a tool for examining the curative effects and mechanism of traditional Chinese medicines.

A Systematic Review published in 2020 in the journal Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews found that Green tea, containing antioxidative catechins, may possess some beneficial effects in reducing the risk of specific types of cancer. The study team performed an extensive review of 142 completed and 2 ongoing studies up to January 2019. These studies encompassed all types of epidemiological studies: experimental (randomised controlled trials) and nonexperimental (observational studies with both cohort and case-control design) that looked into the association of green tea consumption with cancer risk or quality of life, or both. Data extraction and methodological quality assessment of these studies were performed independently by two or more review authors. These efforts were organized and the results summarized according to the type of cancer diagnosis. The data was sourced from CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov, and referenced lists of earlier reviews and included studies. The studies focused on investigating the links between cancer incidence and mortality rates, safety data, quality of life, and green tea consumption. Numerous studies came with a high degree of methodological quality, based on 'Risk of bias' assessment. The placebos in 11 studies involving a total of 1795 participants were green tea extracts. On another note, the studies indicated some side effects linked to high intakes of green tea with more than a million participants undertaking the non-experimental studies. Despite inconclusive evidence, experimental and nonexperimental epidemiological studies suggested potential beneficial effects of green tea consumption on the overall risk of cancer or on certain types of cancer. Variations of the beneficial effects of green tea were observable across different cancer types, indicating a decrease in rate ratios (RR) in the highest category of green tea consumption versus the lowest. A detailed analysis based on study design exhibited conflicting results for some types of cancers, showing an increased RR in cohort studies and a decreased or no difference in RR in case-control studies. However, the overall interpretability of these RR estimates was limited by methodological issues, such as low study numbers and inconsistencies with cohort study results. Lastly, it's important to note that the majority of included studies were conducted within populations with a high intake of green tea, mainly Asian, thus limiting the general applicability of the findings to other populations.

A Systematic Review published in 2020 in the journal Annals of Palliative Medicine found that Acupuncture treatment of insomnia is efficacious, not because of its placebo effect. Acupuncture is a common alternative therapy for clinical treatment of insomnia. As the underlying mechanism is yet unclear, its efficacy is often considered as placebo effect. To clarify whether acupuncture treatment of insomnia is only due to its placebo effect, a systematic review and a meta-analysis were designed based on the comparison between acupuncture and sham acupuncture. Compared to the sham groups, acupuncture significantly decreased the PSQI score (P<0.0001). A subgroup analysis showed that the selection of sham acupuncture methods did not affect the results of PSQI. A subgroup of two trials with a total of 141 participants with major depressive disorder did not show any significant reductions in total PSQI scores (P=0.11). In addition, a significant difference was detected in the change of Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) scores (362 adult patients, 4 trials) between acupuncture and sham acupuncture (P<0.0001). The PSG and actigraphy data from acupuncture and the sham did not reveal any significant differences in the sleep structure changes. For the selection of sham acupuncture, both methods performed similarly in a clinical setting. Moreover, insomnia patients with major depression disorder were not recommended to use only acupuncture treatment.

A Experimental Study published in 2020 in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that The modified Suanzaoren decoction alleviates gastrointestinal disorder-related insomnia indicators and improves body well-being in lab animals, potentially due to adjusting gastric acid pH, and altering hormone and neurotransmitter levels. The methodology of this study involved using a modified version of the traditional Chinese remedy, Suanzaoren decoction or MSZRD, and testing its impact on male lab animals suffering from insomnia related to gastrointestinal discomfort. There were two primary groups: male Sprague-Dawley rats and male Institute of Cancer Research mice. Animals were treated with either MSZRD or a placebo, then subjected to an induced insomnia model; in the case of the rats, this was further extended by a forced period of sleep deprivation. The induced insomnia model involved administering pentobarbital to the animals. The mice were treated for 7 days while the rats were given daily treatment over 11 days, in the last 4 of which sleep was deliberately deprived. Body weight, organ indices, and fecal moisture were compared against control groups while gauging sleep latency and sleep durations in the MSZRD-treated subjects. In the discussion of results, the research corroborated that MSZRD notably reduced sleep latency while extending sleep duration for animals under examination. It significantly improved body weight, organ indices, and fecal moisture, suggesting potential gastroprotective properties. Measures of exploratory behavior in sleep-deprived rats were reduced, indicating diminished sleep deprivation-induced anxiety. Crucially, MSZRD was observed to lower gastric acid pH and restraint the production of certain regulatory chemicals while enhancing the presence of others, such as the inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA. This was witnessed through an increase in serum GABA levels which resulted in a reduced ratio of Glu (an excitatory neurotransmitter) to GABA—indicative of a potential calming effect. Lastly, the treated animals displayed increased expression of GAD1, GABARA1, and CCKBR neurotransmitters, with decreased expression of Orexin R1.

A Randomised Controlled Trial published in 2020 in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that Jiawei Suanzaoren Decoction combined with lorazepam significantly improves sleep quality for chronic insomnia patients, offering a superior solution than using lorazepam alone. Over the course of this study, 207 participants were split into two groups, namely, the treatment group and control group. The treatment group received a combination of Jiawei Suanzaoren Decoction and lorazepam orally, while the control group only received lorazepam. Several factors were evaluated at multiple stages including the Insomnia Severity Index, Self-Rating Depression Scale, Self-Rating Anxiety Scale, Somatic Self-rating Scale, and the MOS 36-item Short Form Health Survey. In addition, adverse effects were evaluated by the Treatment Emergent Symptom Scale. Both the treatment and control groups showed significant improvements in their sleep onset latency and total sleep time. However, the Insomnia Severity Index reduction rate in the treatment group, which took both Jiawei Suanzaoren Decoction and lorazepam, was higher than that in the control group, who only took lorazepam. The study concluded that the combination of Jiawei Suanzaoren Decoction with lorazepam can significantly improve sleep quality with fewer adverse effects, demonstrating that it's an effective treatment that's superior to lorazepam alone for chronic insomnia.

A Clinical Study published in 2020 in the journal Integrative Cancer Therapies found that Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan can potentially alleviate symptoms of cancer-related insomnia similarly to cognitive-behavioral therapy. In this study, 22 participants were divided equally between a group given Cheonwangbosimdan and a control group who received cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia. Participants in the Cheonwangbosimdan group were required to consume the herbal liquid daily and participate in weekly visits for a period of four weeks. Conversely, the control group underwent behavioral therapy sessions 4 times over the same four-week period. The outcomes from these interventions were evaluated using key indices that measured participants' insomnia severity, sleep quality, fatigue, anxiety, and overall performance status. With the focus being on changes observed from the inception of the trial to the end, these measurements were taken at the conclusion of the fifth week. While no significant difference was found between the two study groups, both displayed a positive trend towards alleviating the symptoms of cancer-related insomnia, with anxiety levels markedly lower in the treatment group.

A Systematic Review published in 2019 in the journal Integrative Medicine Research found that Acupuncture using pattern identification led to significantly improved total effectiveness rate compared to medication for insomnia. Our main results suggest that both of manual acupuncture and electroacupuncture used with pattern-identification may improve sleep duration, quality of subjective sleep, and daytime function of patients compared with medication. Acupuncture using pattern-identification is one type of individualized therapy and use in actual clinical setting. Our result may provide useful evidence to practitioners in clinical practice because this design may reflect acupuncture treatment in real world.

A Systematic Review published in 2019 in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that Acupuncture therapy is an effective and safe treatment for chronic pain-related insomnia. In our current study, we pooled the data from nine studies involving 944 patients. Our pooled analysis indicated that acupuncture treatment was significantly better than drugs group in improving effective rate and cure rate and in debasing PSQI score and VAS score. In addition, compared with sham acupuncture, manual acupuncture treatment has an advantage in improving the effective rate and reducing the PSQI score, but the two groups have no statistical significance in improving the cure rate. In this meta-analysis, only four studies reported relevant adverse events. The combined data showed no significant difference in adverse reactions between acupuncture group and control group. Therefore, we can carefully recommend that acupuncture is as safe as control group for CPRI. In addition, adverse events were relatively mild, mainly including bruises, soreness, nausea, dizziness, and other discomforts. These adverse events can be effectively avoided by strengthening the aseptic operation specification, and improving the professional ability of doctors. Based on the findings of our included studies, we propose that acupuncture is an effective and safe therapy for patients with CPRI.

A Systematic Review published in 2019 in the journal Phytotherapy Research found that Chamomile has demonstrative positive effects on generalized anxiety disorders and sleep quality, but exhibits minimal impact on state anxiety and insomnia. The methodology of this study involved rigorous systematic review and meta-analysis across multiple databases, including PubMed, Science Direct, Cochrane Central, and Scopus. The aim was to determine the efficacy and safety of chamomile for managing state anxiety, generalized anxiety disorders, sleep quality and insomnia in humans. Relevant randomized control trials were retrieved, yielding a total of 12 trials used for this study. Statistical analyses were performed with the meta package of R statistical software version 3.4.3 and RevMan version 5.3. The results indicated that chamomile had a significant positive effect on generalized anxiety disorders (GAD) and improved sleep quality. Improvements in GAD were observed after 2 and 4 weeks of chamomile treatment. However, no significant effects were noted in the treatment of state anxiety or insomnia. Mild adverse events were reported in three trials. In conclusion, chamomile was determined to be effective and safe for treating GAD and improving sleep quality, but showed less impact on state anxiety and insomnia.

A Experimental Study published in 2018 in the journal Journal of Chromatography B found that Polysaccharide from Suanzaoren decoction, a traditional Chinese medicine, may inhibit immunodeficiency-induced insomnia by regulating specific metabolic pathways. The study first created detailed physical and chemical models of immunodeficiency insomnia to reflect the complex, multi-target nature of the condition. The serum samples from these models were then subjected to ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time of flight-mass spectrometry to identify and quantify endogenous metabolites. Post this, principal component analysis was implemented to differentiate the groups, and partial least squares discriminate analysis was conducted to ascertain the crucial variables. The effects of total polysaccharide administration on the serum metabolic profiling were then scrutinized. The results showed 21 potential biomarkers linked to vitamin, sphingolipid, bile acid, phospholipid, and acylcarnitine metabolisms had their levels inverted to different extents in the polysaccharide treated groups. Having established the association of these biomarkers primarily with the mentioned metabolisms, the investigation concluded that total polysaccharide could counter insomnia instigated by immunodeficiency through controlling these metabolic pathways.

A Randomised Controlled Trial published in 2018 in the journal American Journal of Therapeutics found that Cherry juice increases sleep time and efficiency in older adults with insomnia, potentially due to its inhibition of a process that degrades tryptophan and stimulates inflammation. The study followed a placebo-controlled balanced crossover design, with subjects older than 50 years old with insomnia being randomized to either placebo or cherry juice consumption twice daily for two weeks, with a two-week washout period in between. Sleep was evaluated using polysomnography and five validated questionnaires, while serum measurements were conducted for several bio-indicators. In vitro studies were also performed to determine the ability of cherry juice components to inhibit a specific physiological process. The study found that sleep time increased by 84 minutes per polysomnography evaluations and sleep efficiency increased per the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Serum measurements revealed decreased levels of certain bio-indicators suggesting reduced inflammation. In vitro studies also found that components present in cherry juice inhibited a specific process that degrades the amino acid tryptophan, potentially leading to these improved sleep outcomes. Other questionnaires, however, showed no significant differences in results.

A Systematic Review published in 2018 in the journal Medicine found that Acupuncture might have effect in decreasing the number of micturition episodes, incontinence episodes, and nocturia episodes. Overactive bladder is stated as the occurrence of urinary urgency which will cause negative impacts and decrease patients’ health-related quality of life. The aim of this systematic review is to assess the efficiency and safety of acupuncture for adults with overactive bladder (OAB) comparing with sham-acupuncture, drugs, and acupuncture plus drugs. Acupuncture might have effect in decreasing the number of micturition episodes, incontinence episodes, and nocturia episodes. However, the evidence is insufficient to show the effect using acupuncture alone or the additional effect to drugs in treating OAB.

A Randomised Controlled Trial published in 2017 in the journal Journal of Physics Conference Series found that Acupuncture treatment effectively improved the quality of sleep and the quality of life for chronic hemodialysis patients. Twenty-eight hemodialysis patients suffering from insomnia were divided randomly into two groups, an acupuncture group (n = 15) who received acupuncture treatment at the points HT7 Shenmen, PC6 Neiguan, GV20 Baihui, and EX-HN1 Sishenchong, anda control group (n = 13) who underwent a sham procedure in which a needle was inserted into an elastic bandage at the same points. The acupuncture treatment was done during hemodialysis twice a week for five weeks. PSQI scores and the WHOQOL-BREF were assessed before treatment, after the fifth treatment, and at the end of the treatment. Significant differences were found in the PSQI score and in the WHOQOL-BREF between the acupuncture group and the control group by the end of the period of treatment. Acupuncture treatment effectively improved the quality of sleep and the quality of life for these chronic hemodialysis patients.

A Systematic Review published in 2017 in the journal Sleep Medicine Reviews found that The severity of primary restless legs syndrome symptoms can be significantly ameliorated by acupuncture. Complementary and alternative therapies have been found to be effective in both primary and secondary restless legs syndrome (RLS). The severity of primary RLS symptoms can be significantly ameliorated by exercise training, transcutaneous spinal direct current stimulation, pneumatic compression devices, light therapy, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, and acupuncture. Pneumatic compression devices and yoga also improve RLS-related disorders. Exercise training is highly efficacious in the reduction of symptom severity in uremic RLS and related effects such as poor quality of life. Endovenous laser ablation may be a good choice for patients with concurrent RLS and superficial venous insufficiency.

A Randomised Controlled Trial published in 2017 in the journal Sleep and Biological Rhythms found that Kiwifruit consumption before bedtime significantly improves sleep quality and daytime function in individuals with chronic insomnia in comparison to pear consumption. In the methodology of this study, participants with chronic insomnia symptoms were randomly assigned to consume either 130g of kiwi or pear an hour prior to bedtime daily for a period of 4 weeks. This followed a baseline assessment period of one week. Various outcome measures such as sleep diaries, actigraphy, and several questionnaires were used to evaluate the effects of this dietary change. The results showed a distinct improvement in sleep quality and daytime functionality in participants who consumed kiwi, as reported in the sleep diaries. However, the objective measures such as actigraphy and certain questionnaires did not show any significant changes. Hence, the research indicates that kiwi might have properties that enhance sleep, especially in people dealing with chronic insomnia.

A Systematic Review published in 2016 in the journal BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies found that Our results suggest that acupuncture could be effective for treating insomnia after stroke. A total of 165 studies were identified; 13 RCTs met our inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis showed that acupuncture appeared to be more effective than drugs for treatment of insomnia after stroke, as assessed by the PSQI and by the efficacy standards of Chinese medicine. Intradermal acupuncture had significant effects compared with sham acupuncture, as assessed by the ISI and the AIS.

A Systematic Review published in 2016 in the journal Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that Acupuncture compared to sham/placebo and pharmacotherapy showed statistically significant results for insomnia. Acupuncture is widely used in Asia and increasingly in Western countries. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine the effects of acupuncture for insomnia. Acupuncture compared to sham/placebo and pharmacotherapy showed statistically significant results. However, the evidence is limited by bias in the included studies and heterogeneity. Well-designed studies are needed to confirm the results identified in this review.

A Systematic Review published in 2016 in the journal Integrative Cancer Therapies found that There is a low level of evidence that acupuncture may be superior to sham acupuncture, drugs or hormone therapy for managing cancer-related insomnia. Three RCTs showed equivalent effects on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and 2 RCTs showed the similar effects on response rate to those of conventional drugs at the end of treatment. The other RCT showed acupuncture was better than hormone therapy in the numbers of hours slept each night and number of times woken up each night. The 3 weeks of follow-up in 2 RCTs showed superior effects of acupuncture compared with conventional drugs, and a meta-analysis showed significant effects of acupuncture. Two RCTs tested the effects of acupuncture on cancer-related insomnia compared with sham acupuncture. One RCT showed favourable effects, while the other trial failed to do so. There is a low level of evidence that acupuncture may be superior to sham acupuncture, drugs or hormone therapy. However, the number of studies and effect size are small for clinical significance. Further clinical trials are warranted.

A Systematic Review published in 2015 in the journal Sleep Medicine found that Chinese herbal medicine was superior to placebo and benzodiazepine drugs and was superior to benzodiazepines and psychotherapy alone as an adjunct therapy in terms of subjective sleep quality and quantity and safety. In this study, we systematically reviewed 79 RCTs investigating a variety of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) treatments for participants with insomnia. We also performed meta-analyses to estimate the efficacy of CHM on subjective sleep quality assessed by validated instruments, patient-rated sleep parameters, clinician-reported severity, and PSG results, as well as to determine the safety of CHM. Overall, this systematic review and meta-analysis showed that CHM was superior to placebo and benzodiazepine drugs (BZDs) when used as a monotherapy and was superior to BZDs and psychotherapy alone as an adjunct therapy in terms of subjective sleep quality and quantity and safety. CHM was not associated with more benefit than non-BZDs, although the risks were less. These results suggest that CHM could be a promising alternative therapy with a good benefit–risk ratio.

A Systematic Review published in 2013 in the journal International Review of Neurobiology found that The clinical efficacy of acupuncture appeared to be supported by evidence obtained from basic neuroendocrinological studies. A number of studies have demonstrated that acupuncture may modulate a wide range of neuroendocrinological factors following stimulation of acupoints. Evidence has suggested that the clinical efficacy of acupuncture in treatment of insomnia is potentially mediated by a variety of neurotransmitters including norepinephrine, melatonin, gamma-aminobutyric acid, and β-endorphin. However, due to the complexity, these findings are far from conclusive. More research is necessary. More rigors methodology and integrated approach to evaluate both clinical and basic research evidence are required for future studies.

A Systematic Review published in 2012 in the journal Sleep Medicine Reviews found that Chinese herbal medicine for insomnia had similar efficacy to Western medication and placebos, with fewer adverse events. The methodology involved conducting a systematic review of both Chinese and English literature related to randomized controlled trials. This focused on exploring the efficacy, safety, and composition of Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHM) treatment for insomnia. The selection process was stringent, requiring papers to meet a high quality standard, as measured using the Jadad score. The compositional analysis identified the most commonly used CHM formula and single herb in treating insomnia. The result of the analysis indicated that the effects of Chinese Herbal Medicine on treating insomnia were comparable to those of Western medicines and placebos. While there were adverse events linked with CHM, their frequency was found to be similar to that of placebos but lower than Western medicines. The most commonly utilised standardized formula in the trials was Gui Pi Tang, and the most frequently used single herb was Suan Zao Ren, also known as Ziziphus jujuba.

A Randomised Controlled Trial published in 2010 in the journal Journal of Medicinal Food found that Tart cherry juice blend yielded modest improvements in sleep for older adults with insomnia, exhibiting effects similar to or better than natural products like valerian and melatonin. In the pilot study, 15 older adults who were suffering from chronic insomnia but were otherwise healthy participated in a randomized, double-blind, crossover design. The study lasted for 6 weeks, with each participant receiving both the proprietary tart cherry juice blend and a placebo for 2 weeks with a 2-week washout period between the two treatments. Sleep continuity and insomnia severity were evaluated by analyzing 2-week mean values derived from daily sleep diaries and the Insomnia Severity Index respectively. The tart cherry juice blend was found to bring significant improvements in all assessed sleep variables before and after treatment. These improvements were particularly noticed in reducing insomnia severity, specifically the minutes awake after sleep onset, compared to placebo. Sleep latency, total sleep time, or sleep efficiency didn't show any notable improvements compared to placebo. The benefits of the tart cherry juice on sleep for older adults with insomnia were in the range of effect sizes seen in studies using valerian or melatonin, which are the most commonly studied natural products for insomnia. But these effects were considerably less than evidence-based insomnia treatments such as hypnotic agents and cognitive-behavioral therapies.

A Systematic Review published in 2009 in the journal The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that Clinical studies have shown that acupuncture may have a beneficial effect on insomnia compared with Western medication. Forty-six (46) randomized trials involving 3811 patients were included, and the methodological quality of trials was generally fair in terms of randomization, blinding, and intention-to-treat analysis. Meta-analyses showed a beneficial effect of acupuncture compared with no treatment and real acupressure compared with sham acupressure on total scores of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Acupuncture was superior to medications regarding the number of patients with total sleep duration increased for >3 hours. However, there was no difference between acupuncture and medications in average sleep duration. Acupuncture plus medications showed better effect than medications alone on total sleep duration. Similarly, acupuncture plus herbs was significantly better than herbs alone on increase of sleep rates. There were no serious adverse effects with related to acupuncture treatment in the included trials.

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