Q. Do I need to take my diet herbal medicine at the same time every day?

In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), we believe there are specific timeframes when the body's energy (Qi) flows most effectively. Taking your medicine at a consistent time helps maximize metabolic efficiency. Please consider the following points: 1. Regulation of Gastrointestinal Function: For those with Spleen Deficiency (Bi-heo, 脾虛), where digestive power is weakened, maintaining a steady window before and after meals reduces the burden on the digestive system. 2. Rhythm of Waste Elimination: To effectively expel Blood Stasis (Eo-hyeol, 瘀血) and Phlegm-Fluid (Dam-eum, 痰飮), metabolism must remain steady. If the intervals between doses fluctuate too much, it may take longer for the body to adapt. 3. Control of Hunger: Diet herbal medicines contain mechanisms to regulate appetite. A consistent schedule allows you to manage hunger more efficiently until your next meal. 4. Psychological Stability: Being overly obsessive about timing can cause stress, which may lead you to give up on your diet. In my experience, moderate regularity is the most sustainable approach. Therefore, I recommend setting a reference point, such as '30 to 60 minutes before a meal.' If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, provided it does not overlap too closely with your next scheduled dose. We can further refine your specific dosing schedule during your next visit based on your current condition.