Many women experience disruptive symptoms like hot flashes, insomnia, and mood swings during menopause, impacting their daily lives. While often viewed as a hormonal shift, traditional Korean medicine, or Hanbang, approaches menopause as a systemic imbalance within the body. Practitioners are increasingly offering individualized herbal treatments as a potential alternative or complement to conventional therapies.
Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years, triggered by declining ovarian function and a subsequent drop in estrogen. According to the Korean Health & Medical News, symptoms vary significantly from person to person, necessitating a personalized treatment approach. “The intensity of symptoms can differ greatly between individuals, even those experiencing menopause at the same time,” explains Kim Hyojin, a physician at Jin Hanbang Clinic and a member of the Korean Society of Integrative Medicine.
Hanbang views menopause not simply as a hormonal deficiency, but as a decline in the body’s overall vital energy, or jeonggi, affecting the function of the organs. The Hidoc News reports that, from a Hanbang perspective, a weakening of the kidneys is central to the development of menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, lower back pain, and osteoporosis. Both men and women experience a form of menopause, with men experiencing symptoms like fatigue, decreased libido, depression, and difficulty concentrating, attributed to deficiencies in gi (energy), kidney function, and liver energy.
Kim Hyojin emphasizes that Hanbang treatment focuses on restoring the body’s natural flow of energy rather than merely suppressing symptoms. “Instead of simply suppressing symptoms, we look at the overall flow within the body,” she stated. “Consistent management alongside attention to overall condition can be exceptionally helpful in symptom recovery.”
A key component of Hanbang treatment involves “detoxification,” but this differs from popular dietary detoxes. As explained by Kim Hyojin, it focuses on resolving stagnation of fluids and phlegm within the body, improving metabolism and circulation. However, she cautions against relying solely on extreme detoxification methods like fasting or excessive sweating, as these can weaken the body. She advises that individuals, particularly those with pre-existing conditions, should prioritize replenishing vital energy and addressing underlying health issues before attempting detoxification.
Healthy dietary habits are also crucial, according to Kim Hyojin. She recommends a balanced diet to support digestive health, stress management techniques to promote energy flow, and limiting foods that contribute to stagnation, such as late-night meals and processed flour. Regular exercise, like walking, is also encouraged to improve circulation.
The Health Chosun reports that the number of women seeking treatment for menopausal symptoms has steadily increased in recent years, reaching 420,000 in 2023. Hanbang practitioners offer customized treatment plans based on individual constitution and symptoms, aiming to restore balance within the body’s systems.
While Hanbang offers a holistic approach to managing menopausal symptoms, Kim Hyojin stresses the importance of careful consideration. “Menopause is a natural transition for everyone. Managing it in a way that suits you is important.”