Comparative Analysis and Elucidation of Insomnia across Traditional Medical Literature

Abstract

Background: This research delves into exploring traditional medical sources, and interpretations concerning insomnia, possessing both theoretical and practical significance in augmenting the variety of insomnia therapy methods and innovating therapeutic approaches. Aim: To compare and analyze the literature on insomnia in traditional medical literature and clarify the differences. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted using comparative and thematic grouping methods. Results: Insomnia detailed in the symptoms of 35 diseases spanning 16 categories within the “Medical Four Foundation” from the mid-8th century. This knowledge evolved and expanded through subsequent scientific works, elucidating that insomnia symptoms manifest in 50 diseases without redundancy. Traditional medicine theory unequivocally posits that insomnia is not a disease by itself but rather a symptom of an underlying disease which indicates accurate diagnosis and treatment targeting the root cause emerge as the crux of managing insomnia effectively. Additionally, the traditional medicine literature permits the classification of insomnia symptoms into certain degrees, most of the diseases related to insomnia are characterized by the “Shariin Khurts Belge” and chronic sleep disorder is associated with the manifestation of “Khiin Khungun, Khulburungu” symbolism. Insomnia, along with its prevalent associated symptoms such as “Khiin Khungun”, “Khulburungu” and “Shariin Khaluun and Khurts”, intertwines with the “Ami barigch khii” in the brain, the “Ungu urvuulagch shar” in the liver, the “Tugeemel guigch khii” and “Buteegch shar” in the heart. Conclusion: According to the concept of Mongolian traditional medicine, sleep disorders are diagnosed differently and treated by following age, physical characteristics, seasonal variations, dietary habits, and lifestyle.