Polygonatum species, commonly known as Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum spp.), have a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine systems, particularly in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In TCM, Polygonatum is referred to as "Yu Zhu" or "Huang Jing" (depending on the species), and is prized for its nourishing and yin-tonifying properties. While its primary traditional indications include supporting lung and kidney function, moistening dryness, and replenishing energy, Polygonatum is sometimes used in formulas intended to calm the spirit (shen) and promote restful sleep, especially in cases where insomnia is thought to arise from yin deficiency or internal dryness.

However, the direct use of Polygonatum for insomnia is secondary and typically adjunctive, often combined with other herbs more specifically intended for calming the mind, such as Ziziphus jujuba (suan zao ren) or Poria cocos (fu shen). There is a lack of robust clinical research or modern pharmacological studies directly linking Polygonatum to improved sleep or treatment of insomnia. Existing scientific literature focuses more on its antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and metabolic effects. Therefore, the justification for its use in insomnia is primarily traditional, with limited supporting evidence and mainly indirect rationale based on its yin-nourishing actions in TCM theory.