Efficacy of Herbal Poultice Pack in Improving Sleep Quality among Primary School Teachers with Insomnia: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background: Insomnia is one of the most common sleep disorders, affecting nearly one-third of adults worldwide, with significant consequences for health and occupational performance. Teachers represent a vulnerable group due to occupational stress and workload. This study evaluated the efficacy of a standardized herbal poultice pack, prepared with Ksheerbala taila, in improving insomnia severity and sleep quality among primary school teachers.

Methods: A pre–post study was conducted among 20 teachers in Mysore with insomnia. Participants applied a herbal poultice pack nightly for 30 days. Validated tools including the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and Regensburg Insomnia Scale (RIS) were used. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests, Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, and effect size measures.

Results: Significant improvements were observed in ISI (p < 0.001), PSQI (p < 0.01), PSS (p < 0.001), and RIS (p = 0.001). Improvements were most evident in sleep duration, disturbance reduction, and daytime functioning. No adverse effects were reported.

Conclusion: Herbal poultice packs are effective, safe, and culturally relevant for improving sleep quality in teachers. Larger controlled trials are recommended to validate findings.

Insomnia, Herbal poultice, Ksheerbala taila, Sleep quality, Teachers, Stress

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