Kampo herbal medicines for mental health care
21/08/2024
How can Kampo traditional herbal medicines help with mental health care?
In today's fast-paced world, mental health issues are becoming increasingly prevalent. Stress, anxiety, insomnia, and memory problems affect millions globally, leading to a growing demand for effective and natural solutions. While modern medicine offers numerous treatments, many are turning to traditional methods for improving mental health. Kampo, the traditional Japanese herbal medicine, provides a unique and natural approach to mental care, offering safe and effective remedies for various mental health concerns.
Understanding Kampo: A Natural Approach to Mental Health
Kampo is an ancient system of medicine that has been practiced in Japan for centuries. It is based on traditional Chinese medicine but has evolved uniquely within Japanese culture. These remedies are composed of herbal ingredients derived from plants, animals, and minerals. Kampo is widely used not only in medical treatment and preventive medicine but also in daily healthcare and fitness routines as an alternative to modern Western medicine. Many Japanese doctors prefer Kampo over conventional prescription drugs due to its safety profile, as it rarely causes serious contraindications or side effects.
Kampo Remedies for Mental Health
Kampo offers several specific formulations designed to address mental health issues, making it a valuable resource for those seeking natural treatment for stress, anxiety, and cognitive decline. Below are some key Kampo remedies that can support mental well-being:
- Dragon Calmness Powder: This formulation contains a unique blend of cinnamomum cassia extract, peony extract, jujube fruit extract, dinosaur fossil extract, oyster extract, licorice extract, and ginger extract. It is traditionally used in Eastern medicine to relieve stress symptoms and improve sleep quality. Dragon Calmness Powder is effective for treating eye and muscle fatigue, hypersensitivity, insomnia, neurosis, general nervousness, and nocturnal enuresis. Notably, it can be used for children as young as one year old, helping them fall asleep faster, improve sleep quality, and reduce night terrors. For elderly patients, it is recommended for treating nervousness and aggression, especially in the early stages of dementia.
- Tsusanto: A combination of herbs and seaweeds, Tsusanto helps overcome stress and relieve tension. It also aids in reducing inflammation in the joints, making it effective for rheumatism. Its general relaxation effect makes it a valuable remedy for those seeking natural mental care.
- Yokukansan: This remedy includes natural components like Atractylodis lanceae rhizoma, Cnidii rhizoma, Angelicae radix, Bupleuri radix, Glycyrrhizae radix, Uncariae, and Perenniporia fungus. Yokukansan impacts multiple neurotransmitter systems, providing neuroprotection, anti-stress effects, promotion of neuroplasticity, and anti-inflammatory benefits. It is effective for treating neurosis, insomnia, and behavioral issues in children. Studies have shown Yokukansan's effectiveness in early dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, improving both behavioral and psychological symptoms without severe adverse effects.
- Onji Powder: Derived from the extract of Polygala tenuifolia Willdenow, Onji Powder combats age-related memory loss, commonly known as forgetfulness. Rich in saponins, Onji Powder supports brain health and cognitive function by inducing NGF synthesis and ChATmRNA, crucial for maintaining cognitive vitality.
Kampo’s natural remedies offer a holistic and safe approach to improving mental health. Whether dealing with stress, anxiety, insomnia, or cognitive decline, Kampo provides a natural treatment for stress and other mental health challenges, ensuring that your mind stays as healthy as your body. Incorporating these traditional Japanese herbal medicines into your routine can be a vital step in achieving long-term mental well-being.