One concern I often hear in the clinic is, “I keep forgetting things these days.” When names or appointments do not come to mind easily, it is natural to worry that it may be dementia. However, fatigue, lack of sleep, stress, low mood, medication effects, and vascular health issues can also affect memory and concentration, so it is important to first take time to look at the causes carefully.
Concerns about dementia are not only about age
Dementia has several patterns, including Alzheimer’s type, vascular dementia, and alcohol-related cognitive decline. Even with the same “forgetfulness,” the approach differs depending on the speed of progression, accompanying symptoms, and changes in daily functioning. In particular, if speech suddenly becomes slurred, one arm or leg becomes weak, or decreased consciousness occurs, you should call 119 or go to the emergency room without delay.
When should Gongjindan be considered?
Gongjindan is a traditional prescription based on ingredients such as musk, deer antler, angelica root, and corni fructus. It is an herbal tonic recorded in Donguibogam, but it is not used in the same way for every type of memory decline. I decide whether to take it after checking whether fatigue has accumulated for a long time, concentration has decreased, and qi-blood circulation and recovery ability have declined.
Regarding Gongjindan, some studies, including cell experiments, have reported indicators related to brain function, antioxidant action, and nerve cell damage. However, these findings do not directly mean that it prevents or treats dementia. If you have already been diagnosed with dementia or are taking related medication, do not stop it on your own, and discuss with the medical team whether it can be used alongside your current treatment.
Before taking it, we check your constitution and medications
Gongjindan is often taken in the morning on an empty stomach with warm water, but the method can vary depending on age, digestive strength, heat sensations, blood pressure, and medications being taken. For people with a sensitive stomach, unstable sleep, or a tendency to feel heat easily, it is better to adjust the timing and amount. Because the quality of the medicinal ingredients and the preparation process are also important, a visit to assess your individual condition should come first.
Lifestyle Management should go together
- Continue activities that use your hands, such as handwriting, playing an instrument, or crafts.
- Maintain regular walking that makes you slightly short of breath.
- Use your brain often by reading and learning in new fields.
- Review your sleep time and drinking habits, and pay attention to managing blood pressure, blood sugar, and lipids.
- If memory decline progresses quickly or begins to interfere with daily life, we recommend receiving care.
Not everyone with increased forgetfulness has dementia, but it is also not something to dismiss lightly. Gongjindan is one Korean medicine option that can be considered for people who also have decreased stamina and concentration. What matters is confirming whether it is right for you. We will look at your body condition, lifestyle habits, and current treatment together to find a direction that is not excessive.