Dyspepsia (Indigestion) and Kampo Traditions
Overview in Western Medicine
Functional Dyspepsia (FD) — also called indigestion or an upset stomach — is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by chronic or recurrent pain and discomfort in the upper abdomen, specifically the area around the stomach. It’s termed “functional” because this discomfort occurs without an identifiable cause, such as an ulcer or other gastrointestinal diseases, upon standard medical testing.
Symptoms of Functional Dyspepsia can include:
- Upper abdominal pain or discomfort: Often described as a burning sensation, aching, or gnawing feeling.
- Early satiety: Feeling unusually full after a small amount of food.
- Bloating: A sensation of fullness or swelling in the abdominal area.
- Nausea: A feeling of wanting to vomit.
The exact cause of functional dyspepsia is not fully understood, but it’s believed to be associated with a combination of factors, including abnormal gastrointestinal motility, hypersensitivity in the digestive tract, psychological factors like stress, and perhaps some degree of genetic predisposition.
Management typically includes lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and medications to alleviate symptoms, such as acid blockers, prokinetics, or antidepressants. Importantly, because its symptoms can be similar to those of more serious conditions, a thorough medical evaluation is recommended to rule out other potential causes.
Overview in Kampo Herbal Formulas
Rikkunshito (Liu Jun Zi Tang) is a Kampo herbal formula often used to address stomach discomfort. It’s typically utilized in cases of gastrointestinal issues such as poor appetite, chronic gastritis, and digestive weakness. The formula aims to strengthen the Spleen and Stomach, enhance the transformation of Qi, and improve the body’s ability to process and absorb nutrients. As recent studies have shown, Rikkunshito helps relax the smooth muscles of the stomach wall, making it easier for the stomach to expand. Improving the stomach’s storage function can also lead to enhancements in its mixing and emptying functions.
In guinea pigs used in animal research, it’s been confirmed that pigs administered with Rikkunshito had an increased the volume of gastric contents compared to those not given the formula. This finding indicates that Rikkunshito may facilitate the expansion of the stomach, making it easier for the stomach to accommodate food.
Additionally, Rikkunshito has been observed to stimulate the secretion of ghrelin, a hormone that enhances appetite, which can be beneficial in improving cases of poor appetite. It also promotes blood flow to the gastric mucosa, providing a protective effect on the mucous membrane. This multifaceted action is a characteristic of Kampo medicine, where a single formula can offer a range of therapeutic effects.
With these effects becoming more evident, Rikkunshito and similar Kampo formulas have become prominent in the treatment of functional dyspepsia in recent years in Japan. They are also used in the treatment of Nonerosive reflux disease (NERD) as well.
Originally, Liu Jun Zi Tang is suited for individuals with weak physical strength (known as “虚証” in Kampo Medicine), particularly those who are prone to cold sensations. For those who easily experience stomach discomfort and poor appetite, Ninjinto (Ren Shen Tang) is used, especially if the individual’s gastrointestinal system is weak and have a tendency towards coldness. For those prone to diarrhea, Heiishan (Ping Wei San) is recommended. Other formulas like Anchisan (An Zhong San,), Hangeshashinto (Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang), and Orengedokuto (Huang Lian Jie Du Tang) are also popular formulas. Formulas like Bukuryoin (Fu Ling Yin) and Hangeshashinto are commonly used for heartburn. Since Many of Kampo medicines are possible for one formula to improve various symptoms, it’s important to communicate all symptoms to a physician to identify the most suitable herbal treatment.
Notice: The information provided here is for educational purposes only, intended to promote understanding of Kampo’s approaches, and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please always consult a licensed healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or before starting new treatments.
