Chinese Herbal Medicine for Sleep

In the United States it is estimated that at least one-third of adults experience insomnia, and its prevalence is only increasing. Sleep issues affect people of all ages and the impact is far-reaching. Deep, restorative sleep is vitally important for a hearty immune system and a calm, balanced state of mind. On the other hand, poor sleep increases the risk of many health problems such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and depression.

Sleep is such an important pillar of health and Chinese Medicine has some tried and true herbal formulas to help you get back into a healthy sleep rhythm.

Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan

This herbal formula is for the physically restless and overheated sleeper, who tosses and turns through the night. This classic Chinese herbal formula, Emperor of Heaven Elixir or Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan, is a natural, non-habit forming sleep formula designed to calm and cool the body during the night, delivering peaceful rest and more energy the next day.

This herbal formula is great for:

  • Those who sleep hot in the night, may even sweat 

  • The physically restless sleeper who tosses and turns

  • Those who experience evening agitation before bed

  • Women in the menopause phase of their lives


Gui Pi Tang

Gui Pi Tang is for the stressed sleeper whose mind won’t turn off in the middle of the night, leaving them stressed, restless, and anxious throughout the night and fatigued the next day. Another classic Chinese herbal blend, Restore the Spleen or Gui Pi Tang, is designed to quiet the mind and deliver peaceful, uninterrupted rest.

This herbal formula is great for:

  • A racing mind that won’t turn off throughout the night

  • Reducing nighttime anxiety and stress

  • Helping one stay asleep, not just fall asleep

  • Increasing mental clarity and focus the next day

  • Decreasing nightmares and non-restful dreaming

  • Reducing daytime sleepiness and fatigue


Er Xian Tang

Perfect for the menopausal sleeper, this formula eases sleep disturbances that are new for the pre and post menopausal woman. Er Xian Tang, or Two Immortals Decoction, helps the body to find balance through a challenging hormone shift.

This herbal formula is great for:

  • Those who experience hot flashes that worsen at night including night sweating

  • Decreasing nighttime wakings to urinate

  • Those who experience evening agitation or anxiety before bed

  • Women in the menopause phase of their lives

  • Easing palpitations felt or heard with anxiety


Suan Zao Ren Wan

This would most benefit the occasional insomniac who has bouts of sleeplessness during trying or stressful times. Suan Zao Ren Wan or, Sour Jujube Seed Pill, is a Chinese Medicinal Formula that has been used for centuries to ease sleep and stress troubles.

This herbal formula is great for:

  • Occasional bouts of insomnia brought on by stressful situation or times of uncertainty

  • Mental restlessness 

  • Hepatitis-induced insomnia

  • Those whose work life and daily stressors interfere with sound sleep

  • Soothing feelings of frustration and anger over poor sleep


Chronic sleep challenges can greatly impact the body's overall health. The above remedies are only a small selection of herbal formulas that help to improve sleep. A licensed Chinese Medicine herbalist should be consulted to explore all options and to determine duration and combination of use of herbal prescriptions. The full Chinese Medicine approach may combine acupuncture, herbs, and lifestyle changes to improve sleep.