Clinical Study of Sansohninto for Patients with Insomnia and Anxiety Disorders

Summary of the Study

This study investigated the improving effect of Sansohninto on sleep quality in 100 adult patients complaining of mild to moderate insomnia and accompanying daytime anxiety, using Polysomnography (PSG) and subjective evaluation indices (PSQI).

Results

• The Sansohninto administration group showed a significant decrease (improvement) in the total score of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) over the 4-week administration period.
• Objective evaluation by PSG confirmed a reduction in Wake After Sleep Onset (WASO) time and an increase in the proportion of deep sleep (slow-wave sleep).
• Significant improvements in daytime anxiety and feelings of fatigue were also observed compared to before administration.

Expert Commentary

The principal ingredient of Sansohninto, “Sansohnin (seeds of Ziziphus jujuba var. spinosa)”, acts to sedate excited nerves and nourish the mind and body. This study is significant as it provides data showing that this prescription not only assists with falling asleep but also enhances the “quality” of sleep, contributing to improved daytime QOL. It can be considered a first-line Kampo medicine for insomnia characterized by accumulated mental and physical fatigue.