Lincoln Recovery Center has used herbal treatment with auricular acupuncture treatment for therapeutic purposes; there is also extensive, modern, western literature in this area. Both western and Chinese texts were utilized in developing the sleep mix formula. Patients are provided in zip lock plastic bags which each contain five tea bags of the sleep mix after daily acupuncture treatment. Instructions are given in English and Spanish (i.e., Boil water and steep bags for several minutes, do not add sugar) and to drink the tea.

Patients are informed when entering program that the tea is not a powerful sedative, but useful in promoting relaxation and should be used before sleep and as desired throughout the day for relaxation. Patients with elevated liver function tests will not be given sleep mix formula due to a possible risk involving the herb, skullcap. The pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee of LMMHC has reviewed this procedures.

The sleep mix herbal formula is composed of three parts chamomile and one part each of peppermint, yarrow, hops, skullcap, and catnip. Each component has a specific function. For example, yarrow is used to promote kidney and liver function. Catnip is used to reduce gaseous discomfort. Yarrow, peppermint, and catnip are used for providing a more cleansing diaphoresis.