Medically Reviewed
동제당한의원·Jang-Hyuk Choi, KMDHead Doctor
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
Q My child eats even less when stressed — can Korean medicine help?
A This is a state of liver qi invading the stomach (肝氣犯胃), where stress from the liver invades the stomach. Appetite can be restored with a prescription that releases liver qi.
Detailed Answer
<p>A child who suddenly refuses food during stressful situations — starting kindergarten, the birth of a sibling, parental conflict — is likely in a state of liver qi invading the stomach (肝氣犯胃) from the Korean medicine perspective. When emotional tension presses on the stomach through the liver, digestive function drops sharply. In this case, a prescription oriented toward soothing the liver and strengthening the spleen (疏肝健脾) is more effective than simply reinforcing the spleen-stomach.</p><h3>Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective</h3><p>At Dongjedang, at the first visit we assess together the recent environmental changes and emotional state the child has experienced. If the cause lies in stress, we adjust the direction of the prescription to promote emotional stability along with the recovery of digestive function.</p>
Related FAQs
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Q
Can even a very picky eater improve with herbal medicine?
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
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Can a child who has poor appetite along with frequent colds or rhinitis be treated for both at the same time?
#Comorbidities
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Q
Are there habits at home that help boost appetite?
#Lifestyle Management
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Q
Where should I start with managing my child's poor appetite in Dong-gu, Incheon?
#Lifestyle Management
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Is herbal medicine safe for children? Are there side effects?
#Safety
#stress-related poor appetite
#liver qi invading stomach
#soothing liver and strengthening spleen
#emotion and digestion