Qi Clinic Acupuncture & Natural Herbs

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Shingles: Pathophysiology, Symptoms, 3 stages of Infection, Complications, Management Understanding Shingles: A Simple GuideShingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a common condition that causes a painful skin rash and nerve damage. It is ca...

대상포진은 성인과 노년층에서 주로 발생하며, 피부에 심한 통증과 발진을 일으킵니다. 초기에는 피부 이상감각, 가려움증이 나타나고 이후 붉은 반점과 수포로 발전하며 심한 통증을 동반합니다. 원인은 수두-대상포진 바이러스로, 면역력이 약해지면 재활성화됩니다. 치료에는 항바이러스제와 진통제가 사용되며, 백신 접종이 예방에 효과적입니다. 면역력 강화를 위해 규칙적인 운동, 균형 잡힌 식사, 충분한 수면, 스트레스 관리가 중요합니다. 대상포진은 조기 치료와 예방이 중요하므로, 증상이 나타나면 신속히 대처하고 건강한 생활습관을 유지하세요.

대상포진 간단정리 대상포진은 성인과 노년층에서 주로 발생하며, 피부에 심한 통증과 발진을 일으킵니다. 초기에는 피부 이상감각, 가려움증이 나타나고 이후 붉은 반점과 수포로 발전하며 심한 통증을 동반합니다. 원인은 수두-대상포진 바이러...

음양철학: 서양과 동양의 융합

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현대교육을 통해 초중고등학교와 대학을 거치며 서양과학을 당연한 것으로 여기던 나는 한의학을 공부하면서 많은 충격을 받았다. 한국에서 태어나 동양적인 것에 익숙하면서도, 서양과학과 서양철학을 토대로 정립된 서양식 교육을 받아 온 나의 생각과 가치들이 한의학을 접하면서 상당히 상반되는 부분이 많았다.

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한의사 면허를 따고 20여 년간 환자들을 치료하면서, 나는 항상 음양철학에 대해 생각하게 되었다. 음양철학을 실생활에 적용해 보면 그 적용 범위가 얼마나 무궁무진한지 항상 느끼고 있다. 이는 단지 우주 삼라만상의 자연현상에만 국한되지 않고, 일상적인 사회생활과 종교에서도 음양이론을 적용할 수 있으며, 현대 물리학의 최첨단 분야인 양자역학이 오히려 한의학의 오운육기와 음양오행과 매우 유사하다는 느낌이 든다.

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음양철학의 기본 개념은 모든 사물과 현상이 음과 양이라는 두 가지 대립적인 요소로 이루어져 있다는 것이다. 이 두 요소는 서로 상반되면서도 보완적인 관계를 유지하며, 끊임없이 변하면서 균형을 맞춘다. 이러한 음양이론은 한의학의 기초를 이루며, 질병의 진단과 치료에 있어서도 중요한 역할을 한다. 음양의 균형이 깨지면 질병이 발생하고, 이를 다시 균형으로 돌려놓는 것이 치료의 목표가 된다.

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음양철학은 단순히 한의학에만 국한되지 않는다. 일상생활에서도 우리는 음양의 원리를 적용할 수 있다. 예를 들어, 직장에서의 스트레스와 가정에서의 평화, 활동과 휴식, 적극성과 수동성 등 모든 측면에서 음양의 균형을 맞추는 것이 중요하다. 종교적인 측면에서도 음양이론은 적용될 수 있다. 모든 종교는 결국 인간의 내적 평화와 외적 조화를 추구하며, 이는 음양의 균형과도 일맥상통한다.

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현대 물리학의 양자역학 역시 음양철학과 유사한 점이 많다. 양자역학은 입자와 파동이라는 두 가지 상반된 개념이 동시에 존재하며, 관찰자에 따라 그 상태가 변한다는 것을 보여준다. 이는 음양철학에서 말하는 상반되면서도 보완적인 관계와 일맥상통하는 부분이다. 이러한 점에서 나는 현대과학이 오히려 동양철학과 맞닿아 있다는 느낌을 받는다.

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Yin-Yang Philosophy: The Fusion of East and West

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Growing up with a modern education, attending elementary, middle, high school, and university, I always regarded Western science as a given. However, studying traditional Korean medicine (Hanbang) presented many shocks to me. Despite being accustomed to Eastern concepts due to my Korean upbringing, my thoughts and values shaped by Western science and philosophy often clashed with those of traditional Korean medicine.

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After obtaining my license and treating patients for over 20 years, I constantly reflect on Yin-Yang philosophy. Applying Yin-Yang philosophy in real life, I am always amazed by its vast scope. This philosophy not only explains the natural phenomena of the universe but also applies to everyday social life and religion. Interestingly, the cutting-edge field of quantum mechanics in modern physics feels strikingly similar to the Yin-Yang and Five Elements (Wu Xing) theories in traditional Korean medicine.

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The basic concept of Yin-Yang philosophy is that all things and phenomena consist of two opposing elements: Yin and Yang. These two elements maintain a complementary relationship, continuously transforming to maintain balance. This theory forms the foundation of traditional Korean medicine, playing a crucial role in diagnosing and treating diseases. When the balance between Yin and Yang is disrupted, diseases occur, and the goal of treatment is to restore this balance.

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Yin-Yang philosophy is not confined to traditional Korean medicine alone. In daily life, we can also apply the principles of Yin and Yang. For instance, balancing work stress with peace at home, activity with rest, and assertiveness with passivity is crucial in all aspects. In the context of religion, the Yin-Yang theory can also be applied. All religions ultimately seek inner peace and external harmony, which aligns with the balance of Yin and Yang.

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Modern physics' quantum mechanics also shares similarities with Yin-Yang philosophy. Quantum mechanics demonstrates that particles and waves, two opposing concepts, coexist and that their states change depending on the observer. This is akin to the complementary relationship described in Yin-Yang philosophy. In this regard, I feel that modern science is, in fact, converging with Eastern philosophy.

Treatment for Hair Loss Using Double-Dose Samul-tang (1-068) + Guipi-tang (1-066) + Prunella Powder (2-155)

Patient Profile:

Female, 49 years old
Constitution: Taeeumin (태음인)
Height: 170 cm, Weight: 60 kg
Occupation: Housewife
Main Symptoms (As of April 15, 2023)
Hair Loss
Observes about 20 strands of hair falling out when brushing hair after washing her face.
Hair loss is not yet visibly noticeable.
Diagnosis
Hair loss is commonly caused by the failure of nutrients to reach the hair roots through the blood. It was determined that this patient's hair loss was due to a similar issue.

Treatment Plan
To promote blood circulation and nourish the hair roots, a treatment combining blood-nourishing and blood-activating herbs was chosen.

Prescription Plan
Given that the patient has good digestion, a combination of Samul-tang (四物湯), which nourishes and activates blood, was used at double dosage. Guipi-tang (歸脾湯) was added to ensure sufficient blood supply to the hair roots, and Prunella Powder (夏枯草散) was included to address pre-diabetes and hyperlipidemia concerns.

Medication Details (April 15, 2023)
To address the hair loss symptoms, a combination of Samul-tang (1-068), Guipi-tang (1-066), and Prunella Powder (2-155) was prepared. A 10-day supply (20 packets, 30 doses) was provided.

Follow-Up Results (May 27, 2023)
The patient returned to get medication for her son's cough and nasal congestion. Upon reviewing the hair loss treatment:

Significant reduction in hair loss was observed.
Hair loss decreased from about 20 strands to 7-8 strands when brushing.
Prescription Details
Combined Prescription: Double-dose Samul-tang (1-068) + Guipi-tang (1-066) + Prunella Powder (2-155)
Dosage: 20 packets, 30 doses for 10 days.
Ingredients:

Samul-tang: Shu Di Huang (熟地黄), Dang Gui (当归), Chuan Xiong (川芎), Bai Shao (白芍) - 10g each
Guipi-tang: Dang Gui (当归), Long Yan Rou (龙眼肉), Suan Zao Ren (酸枣仁), Yuan Zhi (远志), Ren Shen (人参), Huang Qi (黄芪), Bai Zhu (白术), Fu Shen (茯神) - 4g each; Mu Xiang (木香) - 2g; Gan Cao (甘草) - 1.2g; plus 5 slices of ginger and 2 jujubes
Prunella Powder: Prunella (夏枯草) - 20g
The prescription was prepared as a combination for a 10-day supply, ensuring both the nourishment and activation of blood to support hair growth and prevent further hair loss.

Source: Lee Jongdae - Condition Medicine Research Institute

Treating a 43-Year-Old Shao Yin Patient with Shengshutang and Dahuazhongyin

Main Symptoms

1. Gas and Belching
Symptoms began: 6 months ago after starting a brown rice diet, leading to severe gas and constipation.
Severity: Severe, regardless of meal size, and worse in the morning.
2. Cold Hands and Feet, Cold Lower Abdomen
Symptoms: Cold fingertips, occasional numbness in hands, cold hands and feet only in winter, cold lower abdomen all year round.
Additional Symptoms

3. Indigestion
Symptoms: Nausea, gas, flatulence, bowel sounds, belching, and abdominal pain.
Associated Symptoms: Cold sweats and dizziness when feeling hungry.
4. Bad Breath and Body Odor
Severity: Worse in the morning, noticeable since middle school (during menstruation).
5. Atopic Dermatitis
Symptoms: Occurs at the folds of both arms for the past 10 years.
Triggers: Triggered by eating chocolate or wearing non-cotton clothes, and subsides when avoided.
6. Dyshidrotic Eczema
Occurrence: Only on the outer sides of both feet during summer for the past 5 years.
7. Vaginitis
Occurrence: Always severe post-menstruation for the past 20 years.
8. Frequent Nightmares
9. Vaginal Discharge
Symptoms: Large quantity, malodorous, and itchy.
10. Constipation
Trigger: Started after beginning a brown rice diet, resulting in pellet-like stools.
11. Depression and Irritability
Symptoms: Constant fatigue and irritability, particularly in the evening (around 7-8 PM).
Onset: Started after childbirth.
Other Considerations

12. Diarrhea after Eating Spicy Foods
13. Poor Gut Health despite High Vegetable Intake
14. Recent Medical History: Neck tumor surgery 7 months ago.
Diagnosis

The primary complaint of gas and belching indicates weakened digestive power. The patient's history of cold hands and feet suggests a deficiency in body heat, common in Shao Yin individuals. This condition can be classified as hypothermal indigestion due to insufficient body heat.

Treatment Strategy

Given that the main symptoms are related to digestion and the patient is a Shao Yin type with a cold constitution, the treatment will combine warming agents and digestive tonics. This approach helps alleviate indigestion by warming the body and enhancing digestive function.

Prescription Plan

To address the hypothermal indigestion, a combination of Shengshutang (升濕湯) and Dahua Zhongyin (大和中飲) will be used. Shengshutang, with large amounts of Atractylodes (Bai Zhu), and Ganli Tang, will be combined with a digestive tonic to target both coldness and poor digestion.

First Prescription

Shengshutang (1-015) and Dahua Zhongyin (3-025) were combined, creating a 10-day supply (20 packets, 30 doses) to be taken three times a day.

Shengshutang (1-015)
Ingredients:
Atractylodes (Bai Zhu) 3 qian
Ginseng (Ren Shen), Dried Ginger (Gan Jiang), White Peony Root (Bai Shao Yao), Aconite (Fu Zi), Cinnamon Twig (Gui Zhi), Poria (Bai Fu Ling), Licorice (Gan Cao) each 7 fen and 5 li
Plus 3 pieces of ginger and 2 jujubes
Dahua Zhongyin
Ingredients:
Hawthorn (Shan Zha) and Malt (Mai Ya) each 2 qian
Tangerine Peel (Chen Pi), Magnolia Bark (Hou Po), Alisma (Ze Xie) each 1 qian and 5 fen
Bitter Orange (Zhi Shi) 1 qian
Amomum (Sha Ren) 5 fen
First Follow-Up Results

After the first treatment:

Reduced bad breath.
Gas decreased from 10 to 6.
Belching decreased from 10 to 4.
No more cold sweats or dizziness during hunger.
No severe hunger pangs.
Improved stool consistency (no more alternating pellet-like stools and diarrhea).
Second Prescription

Given the improvement, the same combination of Shengshutang and Dahua Zhongyin was prescribed for another 10-day supply (20 packets, 30 doses).

Second Follow-Up Results

Complete elimination of gas and belching.
No more cold hands and feet.
Persistent body odor.
Reduced atopic dermatitis.
No recurrence of dyshidrotic eczema.
New Symptoms

Extremely cold lower abdomen.
Vaginal discharge.
Persistent fatigue.
Tinnitus in the left ear.
Improved digestion.
Third Prescription

Considering the new symptoms:

Bu Yang Zao Wei Tang (1-085) for extreme lower abdominal coldness and weak digestion.
Shen Shen Bu Yi Tang (with Xiang Fu Zi 12g and Yi Mu Cao 10g) for vaginal discharge.
Treatment Plan

Shengshutang + Dahua Zhongyin (20 packets, 30 doses) were combined for 10 days, taken three times daily.

This treatment approach, tailored to the specific constitution and symptoms of the Shao Yin patient, showed significant improvements in both digestive function and overall health.

Oryeong-san for Dampness-Induced Dizziness

Hello, everyone. Today, I’d like to discuss Oryeong-san, a traditional herbal medicine effective in treating dizziness and headaches caused by dampness. We’ll explore this through the case of a 60-year-old Taeumin woman.

The Customer's Concern
A customer visited the pharmacy, feeling foggy and slightly dizzy, as if there was a cloud in her head. This was the first time she had experienced such symptoms, which understandably caused her some concern. To find the cause, I asked her a few questions.

Consultation Process
Digestive Issues

I asked if she had been having any digestive problems lately. She said her digestion was fine.
Headache and Dizziness Due to Heart Deficiency

I asked if she had been stressed or feeling chest tightness recently. She reported no such issues.
Headache and Dizziness Due to Fatigue

I inquired about her eating habits and if she was feeling tired. She said she had been eating well and was not feeling tired, as she exercises for an hour daily.
Headache and Dizziness Due to Dampness/Phlegm

I asked about any changes in her urination, facial or limb swelling, or feeling of heaviness. She denied any such symptoms.
Muscle-Related Headache and Dizziness

I asked if she had been doing any strenuous physical activity or if her shoulders were sore. She mentioned she wasn’t doing any heavy work.
Analysis and Diagnosis
The customer has a slightly loose stool and experienced digestive discomfort two months ago. Considering her history and current symptoms, it is likely that her digestive juices are not being properly absorbed, leading to dampness formation in her body. As a Taeumin, she is prone to slower metabolism, which can contribute to the accumulation of dampness.

Prescription Planning
To alleviate the dampness, herbs like Baekchul, Poria, Alisma, and Polyporus are suitable. Among these, Oryeong-san is the most appropriate. Oryeong-san can also be used for unexplained headaches. In this case, I decided to prescribe Oryeong-san alone without combining it with other herbs.

Medication Details
I provided the customer with a 5-day supply of Oryeong-san granules, totaling 15 packets.

Herbal Medicine Rationale
Oryeong-san is used to treat conditions where the exterior pathogen has invaded the interior, causing thirst and inhibited urination. It is also effective for cases where excessive sweating has led to fluid depletion, resulting in thirst, nausea, and inhibited urination. Thus, Oryeong-san is beneficial for removing internal dampness, thereby relieving dizziness and headaches.

Conclusion
The customer, as a Taeumin, experienced dizziness and headaches due to slowed metabolism and accumulated dampness. Oryeong-san effectively addressed these symptoms. If you are experiencing similar symptoms, consult a professional for an appropriate herbal prescription.

Stay healthy and take care!

Buyangjowi-tang (1-085): Chills in Ankle Bones, Whole Body Chills, Aversion to Wind, Sleeptalking, Body Heaviness, Tinnitus, Neck Pain, Throat Pain
Female, 60 years old, Soyangin

Main Symptoms

Chills in Bones, Whole Body Chills
Experiences chills in her ankle bones and throughout her body even in summer when the wind blows.
Wears thermal underwear in late May and sleeps with an electric blanket even in summer, unable to sleep without it.
Symptoms started 37 years ago after prolonged exposure to a fan post-delivery and worsened over the past 7-8 years.
Wishes she could wear short sleeves in summer.
Severe Sleeptalking
Cannot sleep deeply and frequently sleeptalks, often having chased dreams.
Started 2-3 years ago, following anxiety and hardship 3-4 years prior.
Has been on tranquilizers from the hospital for a year as of last year.
Additional Symptoms

Throat Pain
Throat hurts on cold, windy days or when her condition deteriorates, often leading to a cold.
Had throat issues since childhood due to grandmother’s smoking.
Improved somewhat 30 years ago after taking herbal medicine.
Tinnitus
Occasionally hears ticking sounds in her left ear before sleeping.
Has had this for 13-14 years.
Neck Pain
Feels stiffness behind her left ear.
Occurs on physically strenuous days.
Reference Symptoms

Indigestion
Feels blocked and suffocated inside, burping and making gurgling sounds.
Cannot digest greasy foods well.
Has bowel movements 1-2 times a day, which are smelly.
Eats three meals a day, consuming about 2/3 of a bowl each time.
Easily startled and anxious.
Frequently has chased dreams and remembers them.
Diagnosis

Even in late May with warmer weather, she wears thermal underwear and uses an electric blanket, feeling chills in her bones and whole body from fan or air conditioner wind. This indicates severe yang deficiency with significant lack of body heat. Inability to sleep deeply and severe sleeptalking are related to this yang deficiency and decreased digestive function, contributing to insomnia. Tinnitus and neck stiffness seem to result from muscle contractions around the ear and neck due to cold, affecting surrounding blood vessels, nerves, or lymph circulation. Throat pain also appears related to yang deficiency and lack of body heat.

Treatment Approach

For yang deficiency causing chills in bones and whole body, even using an electric blanket in summer, a strong warming treatment was selected. Additionally, to address indigestion caused by yang deficiency and inability to digest greasy foods, a combined approach including warming the body and strengthening digestion was chosen.

Prescription Selection

Prescriptions for improving yang deficiency and body warmth include Nokyongdaebo-tang, Ugwi-eum, Jin-eumjeon, Dangguisaeyeok-tang, Saeyeok-tang, Bujaijung-tang, Gyegangyangwi-tang, and Buyangjowi-tang. Among these, Bujaijung-tang, Gyegangyangwi-tang, and Buyangjowi-tang were selected for treating both yang deficiency and decreased digestive function. Among these, Buyangjowi-tang, the strongest in warming effect, was chosen.

Originally, Buyangjowi-tang treats severe body cold causing pain in the stomach area up to the heart region. It warms and relaxes contractions caused by cold entering the intestines and stomach, relieving pain.

Medication 1

Buyangjowi-tang, effective for both yang deficiency causing whole body chills and indigestion, was prepared for 10 days, 20 doses, and boiled into 30 packets to be taken twice daily.

Progress 1

After ten days:

Chills in the ankle bones significantly reduced.
Whole body chills also greatly decreased.
Less discomfort from wind exposure.
Reduced electric blanket temperature for sleep.
Sleeptalking greatly diminished.
Deeper sleep with fewer dreams.
Improved indigestion, feeling more comfortable inside.
Improved bowel movement condition.
Body feels much lighter.
Reduced tinnitus in the left ear.
Disappeared left neck pain.
Greatly reduced throat pain.
Medication 2

Significant improvement observed but not complete recovery, so the same Buyangjowi-tang prescription was given for another 10 days, 20 doses.

Reflection

The improvement in most symptoms as body heat increased indicates that yang deficiency significantly impacts physiological and pathological conditions.

Prescription Details:
Bangyak Hapyeon Sangtong 85, Buyangjowi-tang, 20 doses, 10 days, 1 time.

Note: Donguibogam - Outer Form 3 - Chest - Heartache 9 Types - Cold Heartache - Buyangjowi-tang

Nogangyangwitang (2-074) Double Dosage: Chronic Indigestion, Food Stagnation after Beer, Cold-Damp Vomiting

Female, 54 years old, Soyangin, 158 cm, 48 kg
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Main Symptoms
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Chronic Indigestion
Feels more comfortable being hungry than feeling full due to chronic indigestion.
Has difficulty swallowing Gamisachiltang pills with water when indigestion is severe.
Recently started feeling discomfort after eating a hamburger for lunch, which she usually skips.
Experienced a choking sensation after drinking a can of beer in the evening and felt relieved after vomiting.
Additional Symptoms
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Sensitive to cold but not to heat.
Three years ago, received herbal acupuncture on the shoulder every other day for three weeks at an oriental medicine clinic, resulting in a cold sensation in the shoulder, requiring her to wear a scarf even in summer.
Since then, has felt cold and achy in the shoulder all year round, becoming more sensitive to cold than before.
Sleeps with a thermal mat under her upper body year-round, even in summer, due to the cold shoulder.
Only the lower abdomen feels slightly cold.
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Prefers hot foods and drinks about two glasses of water only in the evening.
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Drinks 1-2 cups of coffee daily.
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Experiences constipation, having a bowel movement once every three days.
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Eats 1-2 meals a day; feels uncomfortable all day if eating rice for lunch, so usually eats bread. Feels more comfortable eating less or skipping meals, hence skips lunch.
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Diagnosis
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Initially suspected that the chronic indigestion might be due to food stagnation. Experiencing indigestion even after drinking beer, which is essentially liquid, indicates that it is indeed food stagnation with dampness. Given the patient's usual cold constitution, drinking cold (han:寒) beer exacerbated the issue, leading to vomiting and indigestion due to a cold-damp state in the digestive tract.
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Treatment Approach
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The vomiting after drinking beer is due to the cold nature of the beer affecting someone with a cold or cold-deficient constitution, leading to a cold-damp state in the digestive tract. Therefore, the treatment aimed to improve the cold-damp state. Given the patient's chronic indigestion, cold sensitivity, and use of a thermal mat even in summer, a treatment involving warming and removing dampness was chosen.
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Prescription Selection
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For treating vomiting and indigestion due to a cold-damp state in the digestive tract, prescriptions including warming agents were considered, such as Seungsuptang, Nogangum, Nogangyangwitang, Gyegangyangwitang, Jinmutang, and Bokwon-dan. Considering the patient's chronic indigestion as a Soyangin, Insaengyangwitang was selected, combined with Nogangum to address both cold deficiency and dampness, resulting in Nogangyangwitang, deemed most appropriate.
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Medication
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For a Soyangin with chronic indigestion and vomiting after drinking beer, Nogangyangwitang was used to warm the digestive tract and restore its function. To enhance effectiveness, a double dosage was prepared: 5 doses, boiled down to 15 packets, to be taken twice daily for 5 days.
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Progress
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After taking the double dosage of Nogangyangwitang (5 doses, 15 packets):
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Other digestive medications caused temporary relief but led to repeated indigestion from overeating.
With Nogangyangwitang, the digestive system normalized, preventing overeating.
The patient felt her digestive function had naturally improved.
Normally ate 2 meals, but now could eat 3 meals without discomfort.
Used to eat snacks 1-2 times a year, but now eats snacks without issues.
No longer feels compelled to eat more after digestion, unlike before taking the herbal medicine.
No bloating or indigestion, feels comfortable in the stomach and body.
Conclusion
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Nogangyangwitang, originally prescribed for lingering malaria, was effectively used here for chronic indigestion and cold-damp vomiting. It not only aids digestion but also appears to regulate the autonomic nervous system, improving overall digestive function. The patient can now eat three meals comfortably without previous symptoms.
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Prescription Details:
Bangyak Hapyeon Jungtong 74 Nogangyangwitang (Insamyangwitang + fresh ginger 4 liang) double dosage, 5 doses, 15 packets, 5 days.
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Note: "Nohak" refers to lingering malaria, treated with prescriptions like Gunggwi Byeolgyapsan, Sangsanum, Orowon, Yukwutang, Odachiljotang, Nogangyangwitang, Sipjanggunhwan, Ilboilbaldan, Jinsawon, and Yangwidan.

Leg Cramps and Sleep Difficulty in a 100-Year-Old Woman
Female, 100 years old, Soyangin (constitutional type)

Main Symptoms

Leg Cramps (2 years)
1.1. She experiences cramps in both calves, but they are more severe in the right leg.
1.2. The cramps occur daily and have persisted for the past two years.
1.3. In severe cases, the cramps also affect both arms.
1.4. The pain intensity is extreme.
1.5. The cramps only occur during sleep.
1.6. The duration of the cramps is usually about one hour, but sometimes they last as short as ten minutes.
1.7. The pain is so intense that it causes her to sweat on her forehead.
1.8. She has visited several hospitals, but due to her advanced age, she was told that treatment is not possible.

Leg Swelling
2.1. The swelling worsens with movement.
2.2. This has been occurring for the past two years.

Additional Symptoms

She is not particularly sensitive to cold or heat.
Her hands and feet are normal.
She prefers warm or hot food.
She drinks a normal amount of water and has a good appetite.
She eats three meals a day, consuming about two-thirds of a bowl per meal.
She eats her meals at regular times.
She digests food well.
She has a bowel movement once a day, sometimes once every 2-3 days.
She urinates 3-4 times during the night.
Her sleep is disturbed by the leg cramps and frequent urination.
She gets short of breath with minimal activity due to her old age.
She has a quick temper, cannot stay still, and is very determined.
Notes

She is taking blood pressure medication and regularly consumes red ginseng.
Diagnosis

The cramps are caused by insufficient glucose delivery to the muscles and muscle cells. At her advanced age, weakened muscle fibers and reduced elasticity of the blood vessels in the muscles lead to poor blood circulation, resulting in muscle cramps (cramps).

Treatment Plan

Given her good appetite, digestive power, and strong determination, the treatment will focus on nourishing the essence (補精). This approach aims to provide nourishment to the muscles, increase the elasticity of blood vessels within the muscles, and ensure a smooth supply of blood to the muscle cells.

Prescription Plan

For leg cramps, prescriptions such as Shaoyao Gancao Tang, Xiaojianzhong Tang, Mokyu Tang, Duhuo Jisheng Tang, Liuwei Dihuang Wan, Bawei Dihuang Wan, and Uchasin Gi Hwan are commonly used. For the patient, considering her good appetite, digestive power, and strong determination, the prescription chosen is Uchasin Gi Hwan (Liuwei Dihuang Wan with added Usil and Chajeonja) combined with Gyeongheo Ginsub (Ucha Gi Hwan with added Cinnamomum cassia and Aconitum) and Shaoyao Gancao Tang, which is widely used for cramps.

Medication

Considering the patient's strong constitution, good appetite, and digestive power, a prescription of 20 packs of Uchasin Gi Hwan (Liuwei Dihuang Wan with added Usil and Chajeonja) combined with Gyeongheo Ginsub and Shaoyao Gancao Tang was prepared. This will be taken twice daily for 15 days, totaling 30 doses.

Progress

A few days later, her son called to report:

The severity of the cramps has decreased significantly, and his mother feels much better.
She used to have difficulty sleeping due to the cramps, but now she is able to sleep better.
Note

Gyeongheo Ginsub is another name for Uchasin Gi Hwan. While the term Uchasin Gi Hwan is commonly used in modern prescriptions, Gyeongheo Ginsub is a term used in classical texts. According to the Bangyak Hapyeon, the formulation of Liuwei Dihuang Wan with added Usil and Chajeonja is referred to as Gyeongheo Ginsub.

Medication Details

Uchasin Gi Hwan (Liuwei Dihuang Wan + Omija = Uchasin Gi Hwan + Usil, Chajeonja, Cinnamomum cassia, Aconitum)
Shaoyao Gancao Tang
Dosage: 10 days, 20 packs; 4 packs taken, resulting in significant reduction of cramps and improvement in sleep.

Prescription: Modified Sāqītāng (3-070) for Plumpit Qi
Symptoms:

Plumpit Qi
Indigestion
Stomach burn
Bloating
Insomnia
Irritability
Fatigue
Chest tightness
Pimples
Patient Details:

Male, 39 years old
Body Type: Soyangin-Taeeumin (a type of body constitution in traditional Korean medicine)
Main Symptoms

Plumpit Qi
Feels like something is stuck in his throat for the past year.
Constantly tries to clear his throat, but nothing comes out.
Experiences heartburn about 20-30 minutes after meals.
Has trouble digesting food properly.
Additional Symptoms

Feels tightness in his chest; deep breaths provide some relief.
Becomes easily irritable.
Experiences memory decline despite being relatively young.
Suffers from stress at work.
Additional Considerations

Experiences bloating after meals.
Frequently has gas.
Cannot sleep deeply.
Feels a decline in vitality for the past few months.
Is generally fatigued.
Diagnosis
The primary concern is Plumpit Qi accompanied by indigestion, categorized as digestive-induced Plumpit Qi. Plumpit Qi often results from stress or digestive issues. Addressing the digestive problems is expected to alleviate the associated symptoms, including Plumpit Qi.

The prolonged fatigue likely stems from a year-long battle with Plumpit Qi, indigestion, and insomnia, which has hindered proper nutrient absorption, leading to reduced vitality even in a young individual.

Prescription Plan
Considering the nervous and lean body type of the patient (Soyangin-Taeeumin) and his symptoms of Plumpit Qi and indigestion, the following prescriptions were considered: Sāqītāng, Modified Sāqītāng, Suzi Jiangqi Tang, Xiangsha Pingwei San, Bihwaeum, and Samchul Geonbitang (reference: "Bangyak Hap Pyeon" by Lee Jong-dae).

Among these, Modified Sāqītāng, which is effective for digestive-induced Plumpit Qi, was selected.

Prescription 1-1
To treat Plumpit Qi and indigestion, Modified Sāqītāng was prescribed at double the usual dosage. Additionally, 2 don (7.5g) of Xiangfu powder was added to address chest tightness due to stress. The prescription was prepared in 20 packets for a 10-day supply, each packet containing 120cc and 45 pills.

Progress 1-1
The patient revisited after about 20 days with the following improvements:

The sensation of something stuck in the throat had disappeared.
Digestion had improved significantly.
Heartburn and bloating after meals were gone.
Sleep quality had improved.
Irritability had nearly disappeared.
Fatigue had greatly reduced.
The chest tightness felt relieved.
Prescription 1-2
Given the positive response to the initial prescription, the same Modified Sāqītāng with double dosage and Xiangfu powder was prescribed again for another 20 packets.

Progress 1-2
Upon follow-up:

The sensation of something stuck in the throat had completely disappeared.
Improved digestive function had led to a healthier appearance.
Unreported issues of frequent pimples had also resolved.
Symptoms 2
About a month later, the patient reported:

Increased overthinking.
Chest tightness.
Difficulty sleeping deeply.
Occasional palpitations and restlessness.
Good digestion and appetite.
Normal bowel movements.
Prescription 2
To address the overthinking, insomnia, and palpitations, Guipi Tang was prescribed. For the chest tightness, Xiangsu San was added. This combined prescription was prepared for one cycle.

Additional Notes
Bangyak Hap Pyeon notes that Modified Sāqītāng treats Plumpit Qi by resolving phlegm and Qi stagnation, effective for symptoms like the sensation of a foreign object in the throat.
Donguibogam similarly notes its effectiveness for Plumpit Qi.
Prescription Details
Bangyak Hap Pyeon Modified Sāqītāng (3-070)
Increased dosage of Modified Sāqītāng + Xiangfu powder, prepared as 20 packets for 10 days, twice.
Ingredients of Modified Sāqītāng (3-070):

Pinellia
Tangerine Peel
Red Poria
Fermented Massa
Bitter Orange
Arisaema
Tangerine Peel
Magnolia Bark
Perilla Leaf
Betel Nut
Amomum Fruit
Raphanus Seed
Fresh Ginger