Chinese herbal medicine for sleep disorders : poor methodology restricts any clear conclusion

Future research using CHM for sleep disorders requires further rigorous studies with improved methodological design, such as using an appropriate placebo control, double-blinding, validated outcome scales, and longer follow-up periods. There is a need for more pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic studies to examine the mechanism of action, dosage regimen (number of applications per day, period of treatment required, and if treatment is dose-dependent), toxicology and adverse effects, and if there are any drug interactions. Exploration of differing combinations of herbal medicines and use of genomic technologies is also of interest. Finally, nearly all studies are conducted in China, thus to avoid location bias, other countries are also encouraged to pursue CHM studies. In conclusion, as revealed in the recent systematic reviews, future research and reporting of results in this area must improve markedly for confidence to be extended using CHM in the treatment of sleep disorders.