Sleep Disorders

Accumulated research indicates that sleep herbal medicines (such as those that stabilize the mind to aid sleep, those that nourish both the mind and the spleen/stomach, and those that nourish and stabilize the mind) act on serotonin and GABA-related neurotransmitter pathways to assist in the initiation and maintenance of sleep. While sleeping pills like Zolpidem offer rapid effects, long-term use increases the risk of dependence, tolerance, and falls; in contrast, herbal medicines can be taken without dependence and work to fundamentally restore sleep patterns. Acupuncture treatment can provide immediate help in reducing tension before falling asleep by regulating the autonomic nervous system. For those already taking sleeping pills, Dongjedang employs a method of gradually reducing dependence by combining them with traditional Korean medicine treatments. This serves as a realistic option for those who wish to quit medication but find it difficult to reduce dosage on their own, for whom sleeping pills are ineffective, or for those concerned about side effects.