Q. Are there any side effects when taking herbal medicine for weight loss?
Depending on your individual constitution, you may experience heart palpitations or insomnia; these are typically temporary reactions that occur as your metabolism is being stimulated.
📝 Detailed Answer
When you first begin taking weight-loss herbal medicine, your body suddenly starts working at a higher intensity, which can lead to unfamiliar sensations that may feel disconcerting. Having had similar experiences during my own studies, I fully understand that dizzy or unsettled feeling.
Generally, these symptoms appear during the process of breaking down Dam-jeok (痰積)—the accumulation of phlegm and metabolic waste—to boost your overall metabolism. In particular, those with Bi-heo (脾虛), or a deficiency in Spleen function, may require a bit more time for their bodies to adapt.
- Sympathetic Nerve Activation: Heart palpitations, hand tremors, or dry mouth
- Impact on Sleep: Temporary insomnia or light sleep due to increased energy metabolism
- Digestive Response: Mild heartburn or nausea depending on your physical constitution
💡 Key to the Prescription
Our goal is not simply to use potent herbs, but to minimize discomfort by meticulously adjusting the types and dosages of medicinal herbs to match your current health condition.
However, if these symptoms interfere with your daily life, we must adjust the potency of the medicine or modify the prescription. Please do not endure these symptoms alone and let us know immediately.
Expert Verified
Dr. Yeonseung Choe
Chief Director
Last reviewed 2026.04.20