Curative Effect and Autonomic Nerve Function of Patients With Primary Insomnia of Liver Depression and Spleen Deficiency Type Based on the Acupoint Selection of Meridian Theory: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.

Researchers in China are studying a specialized acupuncture approach for people with primary insomnia, particularly those experiencing symptoms related to liver depression and spleen deficiency according to traditional Chinese medicine principles. This study involves 96 patients with insomnia who will be randomly divided into two groups to compare different acupuncture treatments, along with 48 healthy volunteers for comparison. The treatment being tested uses specific acupuncture points called Tianrong (TE16) and Tianyou (SI17), selected based on an ancient theory called "Jing Bie" or meridian divergence theory. These points are believed to regulate the Shaoyang meridian, soothe the liver, strengthen the spleen, and calm the mind to restore healthy sleep patterns. What makes this study unique is that researchers aren't just measuring whether patients sleep better—they're also examining how acupuncture affects the autonomic nervous system (which controls automatic body functions like heart rate and digestion) and brain chemistry. The study began enrolling participants in January 2024, with 40 people enrolled so far and 4 withdrawals. Recruitment is expected to continue through December 2026, with results published in summer 2027. This research is important because it aims to provide scientific evidence for how acupuncture works as a non-drug treatment option for insomnia by connecting clinical improvements to measurable changes in the nervous system. If successful, this could offer people with insomnia an alternative to sleeping medications, which often have side effects. If you're considering acupuncture for insomnia, seek a qualified, licensed acupuncturist trained in traditional Chinese medicine diagnosis.

This single-blind randomized controlled trial evaluates a Jing Bie theory-based acupuncture protocol for primary insomnia with liver depression and spleen deficiency pattern. The study will enroll 96 patients randomized to treatment or control groups, plus 48 healthy controls. The intervention utilizes Tianrong (TE16) and Tianyou (SI17) to regulate the Shaoyang meridian. Primary outcomes assess clinical efficacy through validated insomnia measures, while secondary outcomes examine autonomic nervous system function and central nervous system neurochemistry. Recruitment began January 2024 with 40 participants enrolled (4 withdrawals) as of December 2025. The protocol integrates traditional pattern differentiation with objective physiological measurements including heart rate variability and neurochemical markers. Results expected summer 2027. Clinical significance lies in establishing evidence-based mechanisms linking traditional point selection theory to measurable autonomic and neurochemical changes, potentially validating targeted acupuncture strategies for insomnia management as a non-pharmacological intervention.