In the clinic during summer, I often see older adults who say, “I have no appetite, and I lose energy even with a little movement.” The heat itself is a burden, but as sweating increases and food intake decreases, it is easy for the fluids and nutrition that support the body to become depleted as well. In these cases, I first look at daily rhythm, fluid intake, and eating status, and when needed, I also consider an herbal tonic suited to the person’s constitution.
Summer fatigue is not just simple sluggishness
Older adults often feel thirst later or drink too little water. If heat also makes sleep lighter and reduces appetite, decreased concentration, listlessness, dizziness, and loss of muscle may occur together. If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart or kidney disease, or are taking diuretics or similar medications, dehydration and electrolyte imbalance also require caution.
Does an herbal tonic leave the body through sweat?
Some people postpone taking an herbal tonic in summer because they have heard that it will all leave through sweat. In Korean medicine, a dry and exhausted state after heavy sweating is examined in relation to depletion of body fluids. An appropriate prescription is used to help replenish reduced energy and body fluids and support the body’s balance so excessive depletion does not keep recurring.
Who can consider Gongjin-dan?
Gongjin-dan is a pill-form prescription based on musk, deer antler, Cornus fruit, and Angelica root. It has been recorded in traditional medical texts and used for a long time, and modern studies have also reported findings related to fatigue recovery, immune function, and nerve cell protection. However, it is not a medicine used the same way for every type of fatigue; the cause of low energy, body heat sensation, digestion, sleep, and current medications should all be reviewed together.
- When food intake has decreased and you tire easily
- When recovery is slow after a long illness or overwork
- When mental fatigue and decreased concentration occur together
- When it is difficult to consistently take pills or decoctions
Things to check before taking it
Gongjin-dan is usually taken by chewing the pill and swallowing it with lukewarm water. However, older adults often have underlying conditions or take multiple medications such as anticoagulants, blood pressure medications, or diabetes medications, so it is best not to start it on your own. Do not stop existing medications by yourself; tell the medical team about the medications you are currently taking and your health status so the appropriate dose and duration can be decided.
We recommend a consultation in these cases
- When you lose weight after being affected by heat and your appetite does not recover for a long time
- When dizziness, palpitations, or severe listlessness keep recurring
- When you sweat excessively or have cold sweats at night
- When you are taking medication for a chronic condition and are considering an herbal tonic as well
If you have sudden paralysis, slurred speech, decreased consciousness, severe chest pain, or difficulty breathing, call 119 or go to the emergency room before seeking an herbal tonic consultation. Managing low energy in summer starts with a glass of water, regular meals, and enough rest. When a prescription suited to your constitution and condition is added on that foundation, the body can move toward recovery without undue strain.