Professor Chen Danping's "Menopausal Insomnia Formula" for Treating Menopausal Insomnia

Doctor zhou

Professor Chen Danping's "Menopausal Insomnia Formula" for Treating Menopausal Insomnia

Professor Chen Danping is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) gynecologist at Shanghai Jing'an District Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital. Through years of clinical practice, he has developed several empirical prescriptions for various gynecological disorders, with the "Menopausal Insomnia Formula" being one of them.

Composition of the Formula:

  • Suan Zao Ren (Ziziphi Spinosae Semen) – 30g

  • Sheng Di Huang (Rehmanniae Radix) – 15g

  • Shu Di Huang (Rehmanniae Radix Praeparata) – 15g

  • Dang Gui (Angelicae Sinensis Radix) – 15g

  • Huang Lian (Coptidis Rhizoma) – 6g

  • Rou Gui (Cinnamomi Cortex) – 3g

  • Xi Hong Hua (Croci Stigma) – 0.2g

  • Dan Shen (Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma) – 30g

  • Xia Ku Cao (Prunellae Spica) – 15g

  • Zhi Ban Xia (Pinelliae Rhizoma Praeparatum) – 9g

  • Chan Tui (Cicadae Periostracum) – 6g

  • Sheng Long Gu (Fossilia Ossis Mastodi) – 30g

Efficacy and Indications:
Professor Chen describes this formula as having the effect of nourishing blood and calming the mind. It is indicated for menopausal women presenting with insomnia due to Yin deficiency with Fire excess. Typical symptoms include difficulty falling asleep, a pale or dark/purplish tongue with a thin coating, and a thready, rapid, slippery, or hesitant pulse.

Clinical Features and Commentary:
This formula is distinctive in its composition and represents one of Professor Chen's clinically effective empirical prescriptions. Notably, the combination of Huang Lian (Coptis) and Rou Gui(Cinnamon) is derived from the classic Jiao Tai Wan (Intersection-Communication Pill), a well-known TCM formula for insomnia. Suan Zao Ren (Sour Jujube Seed) is also one of the most commonly used herbs for sleep disorders in TCM.

  • Sheng Di Huang, Shu Di Huang, and Dang Gui all serve to nourish Yin and enrich the blood.

  • Dan Shen and Xi Hong Hua promote blood circulation and resolve stasis.

  • Xia Ku Cao helps calm Liver Yang hyperactivity (often associated with hypertension).

  • Ban Xia transforms phlegm, dries dampness, and harmonizes the stomach to counteract rebellious Qi.

  • Chan Tui relieves spasms and calms the spirit; recent studies suggest it may have therapeutic effects on refractory insomnia.

  • Sheng Long Gu is used to address "fragmented and restless dreaming."

Among the many insomnia prescriptions I have encountered, this formula stands out for its unique approach. From a modern medical perspective, menopausal insomnia is primarily triggered by hormonal fluctuations, leading to physiological neuroautonomic disturbances. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is believed that menopausal insomnia arises from the gradual depletion of Tian Gui(Heavenly Tenth, i.e., reproductive essence) and Yin deficiency of the Liver and Kidney. Therefore, treatment should follow the principle of nourishing Yin and enriching the blood.

Insomnia has diverse causes, and menopausal insomnia is particularly challenging to treat. This formula may serve as a useful reference for those facing this condition.