HONG KONG — A licensed Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner and popular YouTuber, known as 77老大, has identified three primary causes of insomnia plaguing modern city dwellers and prescribed three targeted herbal teas to restore restful sleep—without relying on medication. As chronic sleep deprivation impacts everything from emotional stability to weight gain, these natural remedies offer a timely solution for Hong Kong’s stressed-out population.
The Hidden Health Toll of Poor Sleep
For millions of Hongkongers, the struggle to achieve deep, restorative sleep is an all-too-familiar nightly battle. Long work hours, academic pressure, and a relentless pace of life leave both body and mind exhausted. Yet, even when sleep comes, many fail to reach the deep stages necessary for recovery. This persistent lack of quality rest does more than just cause daytime grogginess.
According to the licensed TCM expert, chronic insomnia can trigger a cascade of physical ailments. Poor sleep quality has been linked to cardiovascular problems, endocrine imbalances, emotional instability, and accelerated skin aging. Perhaps most concerning for weight-conscious individuals, inadequate sleep suppresses leptin—the hormone that regulates appetite—making it harder to control food cravings and significantly increasing the risk of obesity.
Breaking Down the Three Root Causes
77老大, who holds a TCM license and runs an educational YouTube channel, categorizes insomnia into three distinct types, each with its own underlying imbalance.
1. Digestive and Gastrointestinal Issues
A diet heavy in salt, oil, or late-night snacking often leads to belching, bloating, and acid reflux. These digestive disturbances directly interfere with the body’s ability to settle into restful sleep. The TCM approach emphasizes that a calm stomach is the foundation of a good night’s rest.
The Solution: Spleen-Nourishing Sleep Tea (養胃助眠茶)
This blend targets digestive discomfort and promotes better sleep quality. Simmer the following ingredients in 500ml of water for 10 minutes:
- 山楂 (Hawthorn Berry) – 10g
- 麥芽 (Malt) – 5g
- 玉竹 (Solomon’s Seal) – 3g
- 神曲 (Medicated Leaven) – 3g
- 甘草 (Licorice Root) – 1g
- 冰糖 (Rock Sugar) – to taste
2. Emotional and Stress-Related Factors
The second major cause stems from emotional turmoil. Office workers facing hectic schedules and students worrying about academic performance often carry anxiety and irritability to bed. This emotional baggage prevents the mind from settling, making deep sleep nearly impossible.
The Solution: Licorice-Wheat-Jujube Tea (甘麥大棗茶)
This calming infusion is designed to soothe a troubled mind and alleviate insomnia driven by stress and low mood. Boil these ingredients in 500ml of water for 10 minutes:
- 甘草 (Licorice Root) – 3g
- 小麥 (Wheat) – 10g
- 大棗 (Jujube Dates) – 2 pieces
3. Yin Deficiency and Internal Heat
When the body lacks sufficient vital fluids and essence, a condition known as Yin deficiency arises. Symptoms include a “five-palm heat” sensation (warmth in the hands, feet, and chest), thirst, dark urine, and weak lower back and knees. This internal heat disrupts sleep from within.
The Solution: Yin-Nourishing Calming Tea (養陰除煩茶)
This formula addresses insomnia caused by Yin deficiency and internal heat, helping to clear the mind, soothe tension, and promote tranquil sleep. Steep the following in 600ml of water for 10 minutes:
- 酸棗仁 (Sour Jujube Seed) – 6g
- 生地 (Rehmannia Root) – 6g
- 甘草 (Licorice Root) – 3g
- 知母 (Anemarrhena) – 3g
- 茯苓 (Poria Mushroom) – 3g
A Natural Path to Better Rest
In a world where sleeping pills are often a first resort, 77老大 advocates for identifying and treating the root cause. These three herbal teas offer a gentle, natural approach tailored to individual body imbalances. For Hong Kong residents battling the daily grind, this could be the key to reclaiming not just sleep, but overall well-being.
What you can do next: If you suspect your sleep issues are rooted in diet, stress, or a specific TCM pattern, consider consulting a licensed TCM practitioner for a personalized diagnosis. Pairing these teas with good sleep hygiene—such as reducing screen time before bed and maintaining a consistent schedule—can amplify results. For more Hong Kong health and food insights, explore our related articles on nutrition and wellness.