Research Status of Acupuncture at Shenmen (HT7) for Insomnia / 上海针灸杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To summarize the theoretic evidence of Shenmen (HT7) Point in the treatment of insomnia and its action mechanism, for guiding clinical application. Method The reasons and evidences for using acupuncture at Shenmen to treat insomnia were summarized from the following 3 aspects: records in the ancient literatures, clinical application, and modern medical studies. Result Acupuncture at Shenmen can produce a calming and sedative effect, and it should be one of the optimal choices for treating insomnia due to its significant efficacy; it calms the mind and improves sleep quality via activating the nervous center for regulating sleep and promoting the secretion of neurotransmitters such as 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in brain. Conclusion Acupuncture at Shenmen is an effective method is treating insomnia.