Traditional Chinese Medicine, insomnia, and melatonin: A narrative review

Context: Sleep plays a crucial role in human health, and insomnia is one of the most common sleep disorders. Melatonin, a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle, has been the subject of studies for its potential in treating insomnia. Objective: This study explores the relationship between insomnia, melatonin, and mental health, as well as examining the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) on the subject. Results: Insomnia is associated with various health problems, including cardiovascular diseases and mental disorders. TCM considers insomnia an imbalance between Yin and Yang and offers various therapeutic approaches, such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and body practices, to restore this balance. Studies indicate that acupuncture can improve sleep quality and increase melatonin levels. Conclusion: Both Western medicine and TCM recognize the importance of sleep and offer treatments for insomnia. Acupuncture is an example of an approach that can be used to improve sleep quality and promote mental health.