Q. I'm looking into Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) for weight loss. Which do you recommend more, acupuncture or herbal medicine?

I completely understand how you feel; I've personally struggled with dizziness and lethargy from trying extreme fasting in the past. To put it simply, it is not a matter of which is 'better,' but rather that they target different mechanisms in the body. Herbal medicine is excellent for boosting systemic metabolism. It is particularly effective for those with 'Spleen Deficiency' (Bi-heo), where weakened digestive functions lead to metabolic stagnation. The primary advantage is that it allows for weight loss through appetite control while maintaining your overall energy levels. However, responses vary by constitution, and some may experience minor side effects like dry mouth. On the other hand, acupuncture is highly effective at targeting localized areas. It helps resolve 'Blood Stasis' (Eo-hyeol) and 'Phlegm-Fluid' (Dam-eum)—the metabolic waste that accumulates and causes tissues to harden. This makes it ideal for refining body lines or reducing stubborn edema. However, acupuncture alone may be insufficient for systemic appetite suppression or significant metabolic enhancement. Ultimately, the key is identifying where the 'blockage' lies in your body. If your overall metabolism is slow, I recommend herbal medicine; if you have severe swelling due to poor local circulation, acupuncture is the way to go. The best results come from the synergy of both treatments. I suggest visiting the clinic for a pulse diagnosis so we can determine the best plan for your specific constitution.