Q. There are so many different types of herbal weight loss medicines. Which method do you recommend the most?

To be honest, I've had my own struggles in the past—trying extreme fasting or using overly potent medicines out of sheer ambition, only to end up feeling dizzy and exhausted. Being a Korean Medicine Doctor doesn't mean I've always taken the easy path. From those experiences, I've learned that you essentially have two main paths to consider. First, herbal decoctions (liquid extracts) allow for highly customized prescriptions tailored to your specific condition. They are particularly effective at rapidly clearing 'Dameum' (痰飮)—the accumulation of metabolic waste and fluid retention in the body. However, the distinct smell of traditional herbs can be overwhelming for some, and the process of carrying and consuming the liquid can be cumbersome. On the other hand, herbal pills or capsules are incredibly portable, which is why I frequently recommend them to office workers with frequent business trips or company dinners. While they are more convenient, they may not act as rapidly as decoctions, and they offer slightly less flexibility for fine-tuning the dosage for each individual. Ultimately, the first thing I examine is 'Bi-heo' (脾虛), or deficiency of the Spleen/Digestive system. If someone lacks basic vital energy, jumping straight into potent weight loss herbs can overwhelm the body. That is why, rather than rushing into a prescription, I spend a significant amount of time listening to your current condition and lifestyle patterns first. This ensures you can complete the journey comfortably without giving up halfway.