Synopsis

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

Lotus seed (Nelumbo nucifera), also known as "lian zi" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has a long history of use as a remedy for insomnia and restlessness. In TCM, lotus seed is believed to nourish the heart and calm the spirit ("shen"), which are considered essential for achieving restful sleep. Historical texts such as the "Shennong Bencao Jing" and other classical materia medica describe lotus seed as a gentle tonic that can address palpitations, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. Commonly, it is included in herbal formulas for individuals experiencing insomnia due to deficiency patterns, particularly when related to weakness of the heart and spleen. While preclinical studies suggest lotus seed extracts may possess anxiolytic and sedative properties, clinical trials in humans are limited and typically of low methodological quality. Some animal studies have indicated that compounds within lotus seeds, such as alkaloids and flavonoids, may interact with neurotransmitter systems involved in sleep regulation, but these findings have not been robustly translated to human research. Therefore, the use of lotus seed for insomnia remains primarily rooted in traditional practice rather than strongly supported by modern scientific evidence.

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