Many middle-aged and elderly people experience this situation: you’ve barely eaten a few bites, yet your stomach feels uncomfortably bloated. Your stool is either as dry as goat pellets or loose and unformed. If you eat just a little extra at night, you toss and turn, unable to sleep. Why is this? These seemingly unrelated issues are all connected to the spleen and stomach!

Traditional Chinese Medicine believes that the spleen and stomach are the foundation of postnatal life, much like the stove in your home that transforms what you eat into Qi and blood. When you’re young, this "stove fire" is vigorous, and you can digest almost anything. However, as you age, this fire gradually weakens, and eating even a bit more than usual can lead to blockages. The spleen and stomach are akin to the drainage pipes in your house. When they get blocked, Qi rebels upward, causing belching and acid reflux; if it can't move downward, it results in constipation; and if dampness gets trapped inside, it can cause diarrhea. Furthermore, TCM holds that "a disharmonious stomach leads to restless sleep." When the spleen and stomach are uncomfortable, naturally, sleep becomes unsettled.

When dealing with issues of gastrointestinal stagnation, the key is to clear away the "blockages" and restore the normal functioning of the spleen and stomach. In such cases, Baohe Wan can be considered for regulation. The hawthorn in it specifically helps with indigestion caused by excessive meat consumption, Shenqu can break down alcohol and grain stagnation, and Radish Seed is most effective at promoting qi flow and relieving bloating. These three herbs combined can gradually dissolve all kinds of stagnation, whether it’s from meat, alcohol, grains, or general food accumulation.

Additionally, the formula includes spleen-strengthening helpers like Poria and Tangerine Peel. Poria can fortify the spleen and drain dampness, drawing moisture from the spleen and stomach, while Tangerine Peel helps regulate qi flow. Therefore, taking Baohe Wan not only aids in digestion but also promotes bowel movement and helps manage diarrhea, all without harming the healthy qi of the spleen and stomach. When you've overeaten at night and can't sleep, using it can ease your stomach discomfort, leading to a better night’s rest.

This article is intended for educational purposes only. When it comes to medication, caution is advised. If you’re feeling unwell, be sure to consult a doctor. Do not self-medicate, as it may delay proper treatment and worsen the condition.