Major Research Findings

Traditional Korean medicine (TKM) has shown potential benefits for treating various conditions, including obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), cancer, frostbite, hip pain, and skin diseases. Research has revealed that TKM exhibits distinct effects on specific tissues and pathways.

For example, a study found that green tea and Taeumjowitang, a traditional Korean medicine, had different tissue-specific and pathway-specific effects on obesity in mice. 2 Taeumjowitang was particularly effective in regulating functional networks associated with lymphocyte activation in the epididymal white adipose tissue (eWAT). In contrast, green tea was a more effective regulator of functional networks associated with glucose metabolic processes in the eWAT.

Another study examined the effects of natural products on PCOS. 7 This study revealed that certain plant-derived chemicals might reduce inflammation by controlling the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and decreasing NF-κB and cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-1 (IL-1), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Other substances altered the HPO axis, normalizing hormones. Additionally, some plant components increased glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels to reduce radiation-induced oxidative stress.

In a 4-year prospective cohort study, researchers investigated the effects of TKM oncotherapy on cancer patients' survival, quality of life, and telomere length. 9 While TKM oncotherapy did not show a significant impact on survival or quality of life, long-term TKM oncotherapy group had a higher daily telomere attrition rate. However, the study highlighted the need for larger and longer-term observational studies to assess the effects of TKM oncotherapy on cancer patients.

A case series study explored the potential of acupuncture and herbal medicine in preventing amputation and promoting tissue regeneration in severe frostbite. 10 While TKM has been reported to possess tissue regeneration effectiveness, clinical evidence supporting its use in treating grade 3 frostbite cases at risk of amputation is still lacking. Further clinical research is required.

A systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of acupuncture treatment (AT) for hip pain. 13 The findings demonstrated the potential of AT in managing hip pain, but the evidence supporting AT for hip pain management was weak due to low-quality studies and small sample sizes. More robust clinical trials and systematic reviews are needed.

A study examined the anti-inflammatory effects of JinPi-tang (JPT), a traditional Korean medicine, and its active ingredient, hesperidin (HES) in HaCaT cells. 5 JPT and HES were found to inhibit the H(2)O(2)-induced interleukin-8 and tumor necrosis factor-α production, as well as their mRNA expression. The study also revealed that JPT and HES inhibited the activation of the nuclear factor-κB, the phosphorylation of IκBα and the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, as well as the activation of cyclooxygenase-2.

Another study investigated the compound information that composes Sasang type-specific personalized herbal medicines. 14 The study used data science approach to analyze the compound information and discovered that the composition of Sasang type-specific personalized herbal medicines differs based on the patient's Sasang type.

A systematic review evaluated the efficacy of traditional Thai massage (TTM) for the treatment of chronic pain. 1 The review, which analyzed six studies, showed that TTM significantly reduced pain intensity and improved disability, perceived muscle tension, flexibility, and anxiety. However, further research is needed to understand the long-term benefits of TTM.

A study investigated the inhibitory effects of Glycyrrhiza uralensis (GU) and Donkey Hide Gelatin (DHG) water extracts on DNCB-induced atopic dermatitis in NC/Nga mice. 12 The combined treatment with water extracts of GU and DHG improved skin symptom evaluation score and skin histology, with increased expression of skin barrier proteins Claudin 1 and Sirt 1 in lesion areas. These findings suggest the potential of GU and DHG as alternative ingredients in functional foods for people with atopic dermatitis.

A preliminary survey explored the clinical practice status, perceptions, and clinical usage status of acupotomy among Korean Medicine (KM) practitioners. 8 The survey revealed that acupotomy is commonly used for musculoskeletal and connective tissue diseases. While the most frequent adverse events reported were bruises, fatigue, pain, and hematoma, severe adverse events were rare. The study highlighted the importance of using imaging devices during acupotomy and developing clinical practice guidelines to ensure safety and promote the use of acupotomy.

A study investigated the regulatory mechanism underlying the influence of Bojanggunbi-tang (BGT) on the interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs), pacemaker cells in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. 11 The study found that BGT acts through CHRM3, 5HTR3, and 5HTR4 to regulate intracellular Ca²⁺ concentrations and the PKC, MAPK, guanylate cycle, and PKG signaling pathways.

A study explored the anti-inflammatory properties of Ojayeonjonghwan (OJ), a traditional Korean prescription widely used for the treatment of prostatitis. 3 OJ was found to suppress NO generation and iNOS induction in LPS-activated mouse peritoneal macrophages, suggesting its potential benefits in treating inflammation associated with prostatitis.

A retrospective study evaluated the effect of TKM on ovarian reserve by measuring serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels in patients with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR). 4 The study found that TKM may provide an effective option for patients aged <38 years with DOR, but further research is needed to confirm these results and evaluate the effects of improved ovarian reserve on fertility outcomes.

A case report documented the hypoglycemic effect of an herbal decoction, modified Gangsimtang (mGST), in a patient with severe type 2 diabetes mellitus who refused oral anti-diabetic medication. 6 The patient experienced a significant decrease in postprandial blood glucose levels, reduction in polydipsia, and a decrease in triglyceride levels during the treatment.

Benefits and Risks

Benefit Summary

Traditional Korean medicine has shown potential benefits in treating a variety of conditions, including obesity, PCOS, cancer, frostbite, hip pain, and skin diseases. Studies suggest that TKM may have distinct effects on specific tissues and pathways. For example, green tea and Taeumjowitang were found to have different effects on obesity in mice, while certain plant-derived chemicals showed potential benefits in reducing inflammation and normalizing hormones in PCOS. Acupuncture has also shown potential in managing hip pain. However, further research is necessary to confirm and expand upon these findings.

Risk Summary

Traditional Korean medicine can have side effects, like any medical intervention. For example, TKM oncotherapy did not show a significant impact on cancer patients' survival or quality of life in one study. Acupotomy, a common practice in TKM, has been associated with side effects like bruising, fatigue, pain, and hematoma. However, severe adverse events are relatively rare.

Comparison Across Studies

Commonalities

These studies highlight the potential of TKM in treating various conditions. They also suggest that TKM may have distinct effects on specific tissues and pathways. However, the majority of these studies have limitations such as small sample sizes, emphasizing the need for larger and more robust research to confirm their findings.

Differences

The studies presented vary in their focus, methodology, and outcomes. Some studies focused on specific conditions, while others examined the effects of TKM on general health indicators. Direct comparison across all studies is difficult due to these variations. However, these studies collectively suggest the need for further investigation into the effectiveness and safety of TKM for various ailments.

Consistency and Contradictions in Results

While the studies suggest the potential benefits of TKM, there is some inconsistency in the findings. For example, TKM oncotherapy did not demonstrate a significant impact on survival or quality of life in one study. However, the same study observed a higher daily telomere attrition rate in the long-term TKM oncotherapy group. More extensive and comprehensive research is needed to address these inconsistencies and provide clearer insights into the efficacy of TKM.

Implications for Daily Life and Considerations

While the studies suggest the potential of TKM in treating various health conditions, it is essential to remember that these are preliminary findings. TKM should not replace conventional medical treatment without consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. It is crucial to understand that TKM, like any medical intervention, can have side effects. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, including TKM, and discuss any concerns or potential interactions with other medications.

Limitations of Current Research

The research presented has limitations, such as small sample sizes and focused studies on specific conditions or tissues. These limitations emphasize the need for larger, more comprehensive studies to assess the overall effectiveness and safety of TKM.

Future Research Directions

Future research should focus on addressing the limitations of current studies. This includes conducting larger and more comprehensive studies to confirm the benefits and risks of TKM. Additionally, research exploring the mechanisms of action of TKM is crucial to understand how it works and potentially optimize its use. Rigorous clinical trials are also necessary to evaluate the efficacy and safety of TKM in treating various conditions.

Conclusion

Traditional Korean medicine shows promising potential in treating a range of conditions. However, current research is limited by small sample sizes and focused studies. Further investigation, including larger studies, comprehensive research on mechanisms of action, and rigorous clinical trials, is essential to fully understand the benefits, risks, and optimal use of TKM. When considering TKM, consulting with a qualified healthcare professional and understanding potential interactions with other treatments or medications is paramount.