Different Theories on How it Works
The question of how Kampo works continues to be answered in two different ways. Like western medical drugs, Kampo is prescribed based on the history and physical exam. But unlike those drugs, the choice of a Kampo prescription is partly dependent on the person’s underlying constitution. As the condition of the person’s body changes over time in response to the medicine, the prescription is changed. On the one hand, the effect of the prescription and the changes in the person’s body can be explained by eastern theoretical concepts such as yin-yang and five phase theory. On the other hand, the large amount of scientific research on the prescriptions also allows us to describe some of the effects in terms of Western pathophysiology. In Japan there does not seem to be as much trouble accepting that these two forms of explanation complement each other. Traditional concepts are used to provide hypotheses for scientific research, and scientific research is use to streamline clinical decision-making. For example, based on scientific analysis of their biochemical properties, some formulas are now successfully used to treat diseases for which they are not classically indicated.

Conditions it Works Best for
In general, Japanese physicians do not regard Kampo as a first-line treatment. However, physicians who develop their skills in Kampo will often use herbs for the same reason American doctors use them. There are 6 main reasons: first, herbs are used when allopathic treatments are ineffective or have limited efficacy. Second, herbs are used when people cannot or chose not to tolerate the side effects of standard medications. Clearly, there is a lot of overlap between these two categories. Thirdly, they are used to treat what Western medicine would call “subclinical” conditions. Chronic constipation without organic disease would be one example. Cold extremities without demonstrable vascular disease would be another. Fourthly, they are used when patients request them and there is no contraindication to their use. Fifth, Kampo is used as preventive medicine. Older people in Japan often take Joyaku formulas. Finally, a small group of physicians is prescribing Chuyaku formulas for patients recovering from along illness or from the side effects of allopathic treatment.

Content last modified on Sep 19, 2003