Suan Zao Ren - Sour Jujube Seed (Ziziphi Spinosae Semen)

Suan Zao Ren (酸枣仁), derived from the seeds of Ziziphus jujuba var. spinosa, is a premier sedative herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Unlike chemical sleep aids, it nourishes heart and liver blood while calming the spirit, addressing both the symptoms and root of sleep disorders.

Key Benefits
Nourishes Heart Blood (养心安神) – For insomnia with dream-disturbed sleep and palpitations.
Calms Liver Yang (柔肝敛汗) – Reduces night sweats and irritability.
Analgesic Effects – Helps pain-related sleeplessness.
Modern Use – Clinically verified to increase REM sleep duration.

Dosage & Administration
Standard Decoction: 9–15g (lightly toasted enhances effects).
Acute Insomnia: Up to 30g short-term.
Powder: 3–6g at bedtime with warm milk.
Classic Formulas:
Suan Zao Ren Tang – For severe heart blood deficiency.
Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan – For yin deficiency with heat.

Characteristics
Taste: Sweet-sour with nutty aroma.
Nature: Neutral (slightly cooling when raw).

Safety Notes
May cause drowsiness when combined with sedatives.
Contraindicated in excess patterns without deficiency.
Safe for long-term use (2–3 month cycles).

Traditional applications described for educational purposes. Professional guidance recommended for therapeutic use.