Pearl (also known as Zhen Zhu in Traditional Chinese Medicine) has been used for centuries in East Asian medicine to calm the spirit, alleviate anxiety, and promote restful sleep. Its use for insomnia is primarily based on traditional beliefs and practices. In these systems, pearl powder is thought to "anchor the spirit" and is often included in herbal formulas for individuals experiencing palpitations, anxiety, or sleep disturbances.

Scientific evidence supporting pearl’s efficacy for insomnia remains limited. Some laboratory and animal studies suggest that pearl contains bioactive compounds—such as calcium, magnesium, and conchiolin protein—that might have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) or sedative effects. However, well-designed human clinical trials specifically evaluating pearl powder's impact on sleep quality or insomnia are lacking. Most of the available data comes from anecdotal reports, traditional texts, or small, non-randomized studies with methodological limitations.

In summary, the use of pearl for insomnia is justified by a long history of traditional use rather than robust scientific validation. While some early research points to possible calming effects, there is currently insufficient clinical evidence to conclusively recommend pearl for the treatment of insomnia.