Analysis of Thai Traditional Medicine Knowledge for Insomnia Treatment: A Qualitative Study of Thai Traditional Medical Textbooks

Abstract

Insomnia has a detrimental impact on an individual's physical health, mental well-being, social relationships, career, and economic status, affecting various aspects of their existence. In terms of physical health, insomniacs frequently experience a variety of discomforts, including fatigue, confusion, and lack of vitality. The objective of this study was to compile and investigate information regarding the use of herbs in Thai medicine formulations for the treatment of insomnia, as well as to examine the structure of herbal formulations. 27 formulations containing 120 distinct herbs were compiled through the examination of traditional medical texts, Thai medical scriptures, and a variety of literature. The Apiaceae family comprises the majority of herbs, with seven species. The herb with the highest frequency of use in the treatment of insomnia was Garden cress (Lepidium sativum L.) (4.87%). Fruit was the most frequently employed plant portion (21 species), and bitterness was the most prevalent taste characteristic (29 species). The formulations for insomnia treatment contained up to seven categories of mineral substances, with camphor (Cinnamomum camphora (L.) J. Presl.) being the most frequently employed. The results of this study can be used to develop insomnia treatment formulations, particularly in the selection of botanicals with a high frequency of use or those with common taste characteristics.