Q What is the order and type of prescription received when starting Oriental medicine treatment?
A In the initial stages, the focus is on restoring sleep and appetite. This is followed by the recovery of energy and concentration, and finally, the process proceeds in stages to strengthen the constitution for recurrence prevention. Depending on the patient's constitution and symptom type, prescriptions such as Gyeobitang, Gamisoyosan, and Bojungikgitang are selected.
Detailed Answer
Oriental medicine treatment for depression proceeds in three main stages. Stage 1 (Initial, 4–8 weeks): Restoration of sleep, normalization of appetite, and alleviation of severe fatigue. The focus is on herbal medicines that nourish both the mind and the spleen/stomach (Simbiyangheo) and those that relieve stifling sensations by improving Qi circulation (Gangiulgyeol). Acupuncture treatment is used to stabilize nerves. Stage 2 (Mid-stage, 2–4 months): Restoration of energy, improvement of concentration, and reduction of anxiety. Stage 3 (Maintenance/Prevention): Lowering vulnerability to recurrence with tonics tailored to the constitution. We assess the condition at each stage and adjust the prescription.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
If sleep stabilizes first, the speed of mood recovery accelerates. This is why improving sleep is the primary goal in the early stages of treatment. Since prescriptions vary depending on individual constitution and symptom patterns, a customized plan is established after an examination.
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