Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Scrophularia root, also known as Chinese figwort or "Xuan Shen" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has been historically used in East Asian herbal systems. However, its primary traditional indications focus on clearing heat, cooling the blood, and treating conditions such as sore throat, fever, and skin eruptions. There is minimal documentation in classical TCM texts supporting its use specifically for insomnia. However, some modern herbal formulations for sleep may include Scrophularia root, likely due to its purported calming and yin-nourishing properties as part of multi-herb combinations.

Scientific research on Scrophularia root's direct effects on sleep or insomnia is extremely limited. A few animal and in vitro studies have suggested potential neuroprotective or anti-inflammatory effects, but these do not translate to evidence for insomnia treatment. No robust clinical trials or pharmacological studies support its efficacy for improving sleep quality or reducing insomnia symptoms.

In summary, the use of Scrophularia root for insomnia is justified more by traditional or empirical use in multi-herb formulas, rather than by scientific validation. The evidence is weak and indirect, with little support in both classical texts and modern clinical research. As such, it is not considered a primary herb for insomnia within TCM or by contemporary evidence-based medicine.

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