Integrative Medicine for Insomnia

Abstract

Difficulty initiating and/or maintaining sleep is a common issue. Patients experiencing insomnia symptoms frequently self-treat their symptoms with sleep medications. However, there remains concern regarding the short- and long-term health impacts of sleep medications. This article discusses the evidence supporting integrative approaches to insomnia treatment, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and mind-body therapies (mindfulness meditation, yoga, tai chi), as well as emerging data for use of other less well supported approaches (dietary supplements, acupuncture).

Keywords: Alternative therapy; Complementary medicine; Insomnia; Integrative medicine; Sleep disorders.