Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Ophiopogon root, known as Mai Men Dong (麦门冬) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has a long history of use as a herbal remedy for various conditions, including sleep disturbances such as restlessness and disturbed sleep. In TCM, ophiopogon root is classified as a yin-nourishing herb, believed to moisten dryness, clear heat, and benefit the heart and lungs. Classical herbal texts, such as the "Shennong Bencao Jing" and subsequent TCM formularies, list Mai Men Dong as an ingredient in formulas targeting "yin deficiency" with symptoms including irritability, insomnia, and palpitations. The rationale for its use in sleep disorders arises from TCM theory that links insomnia or restless sleep to an imbalance of yin and yang, particularly a deficiency of heart yin leading to agitation of the mind ("shen"). Ophiopogon root is said to nourish heart yin, calm the shen, and thereby improve sleep quality. While it is frequently combined with other calming herbs (e.g., Ziziphus jujuba or Polygala tenuifolia) in sleep-promoting formulas, its use as a standalone remedy for sleep is less common. Scientific studies directly examining ophiopogon root’s effects on sleep in humans are limited and inconclusive. Some animal studies show sedative or anxiolytic properties, but their relevance to clinical insomnia is unclear. Therefore, while its use for sleep is well-rooted in traditional practice, robust scientific validation is lacking. The evidence rating reflects strong tradition but limited direct scientific support.

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