In the summer clinic, I often hear people say, “I have no appetite, and I don’t feel refreshed even after sleeping.” When sweating increases because of the heat and sleep quality drops because of tropical nights, you tire more easily than usual and concentration can also become unstable. In these cases, I first look at daily rhythm and eating status together, and when needed, I review whether an herbal tonic may help.
Why heat increases fatigue
In summer, a lot of energy is used to regulate body temperature, and cold foods or irregular meals can weaken digestive function. If you do not recover sufficiently at night, fatigue may continue into the next day, and decreased appetite and listlessness may recur.
Herbal tonics should come after checking what is lacking
Rather than simply being medicines that raise energy, herbal tonics are composed to review the body’s current balance and supplement what is lacking. Even with the same fatigue, the prescription direction differs for someone who sweats a lot and feels cold in the abdomen, someone who has a lot of heat sensation and light sleep, and someone whose digestion has weakened. Decoctions have the advantage of allowing the herbal composition to be adjusted based on pulse examination and history-taking.
Who should consider Musk Gongjin-dan?
Original-formula musk Gongjindan is a traditional prescription based on musk, deer antler, Cornus fruit, and Angelica root. It may be considered, based on a Korean medicine diagnosis, when recovery is slow after prolonged fatigue or when physical conditioning is needed Before an Important Event. Because it comes in pill form, it is relatively easy to carry and take, but the way it is taken should vary depending on the quality and combination of the herbs and the individual’s condition.
What To Check Before Taking It
- If you have a chronic condition such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or liver or kidney disease, please be sure to tell us during your visit.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if the patient is a child or an older adult, the dose and timing should be checked separately.
- Do not stop medications you are taking, such as anticoagulants, blood pressure medicine, or diabetes medicine, on your own; please discuss them with us during your Consultation.
- It is best to avoid moisture and heat, and to follow the storage instructions and dosage you have been given.
When We Recommend A Consultation
If fatigue continues for more than 2 weeks, or if it is accompanied by weight loss, persistent fever, palpitations, shortness of breath, chest pain, black stools, or severe dizziness, we recommend that you receive care. If there is sudden paralysis, slurred speech, or decreased consciousness, call 119 or go to the emergency room first rather than considering a tonic.
Managing vitality in summer does not end with one good medicine. It is important to adjust sleep, meals, and activity level together while finding a prescription that fits your body. Please do not overlook the signals your body sends when it is worn down by the heat, and consider making a recovery plan suited to your current condition.