In recent times, the TikTok community has been abuzz with discussions around incorporating Chinese Medicine into dietary practices. Influencers have boldly asserted remarkable weight loss achievements, with claims of shedding nearly 10 kilograms solely through the consumption of Chinese herbal remedies.
What is Bofu-tsusho-san?
Bofu-tsusho-san is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine containing 18 types of medicinal herbs. These include:
- Aluminum Silicate Hydrate with Silicon Dioxide
- Scutellaria Root
- Glycyrrhiza
- Platycodon Root
- Gypsum
- Atractylodes Rhizome
- Rhubarb
- Schizonepeta Spike
- Gardenia Fruit
- Peony Root
- Cnidium Rhizome
- Japanese Angelica Root
- Mentha Herb
- Saposhnikovia Root
- Ephedra Herb
- Forsythia Fruit
- Anhydrous Sodium Sulfate
- Ginger
These medicinal herbs collectively exhibit comprehensive effects, including anti-inflammatory and antipyretic actions, laxative effects (promoting bowel movement by increasing water content in the stool), diuretic effects, and sweating effects.［1］
Effects of Bofu-tsusho-san
The weight loss effect of Bofu-tsusho-san
The weight loss effect of Bofu-tsusho-san is attributed to the inclusion of 'Ma Huang' in its herbal composition, which contains ephedrine that activates the sympathetic nervous system. Additionally, 'Kanzo (Licorice),' 'Keigai (Sinapis),' and 'Rengyou (Forsythia),' which possess phosphodiesterase inhibition, support the action of ephedrine. This synergy activates brown adipose cells, promoting the breakdown of white adipose tissue and leading to a decrease in body weight. It has been reported that Bofu-tsusho-san is effective against obesity, especially when diagnosed as 'obesity' with a BMI of 25 or higher and the presence of one or more of 11 obesity-related complications or susceptibility to health issues due to visceral fat accumulation.[2]
Duration until effects are seen
Individual variations may occur, but for constipation, please take the medication for about one week, and for obesity, edema, and other symptoms, monitor the situation while taking it for approximately one month.
In a double-blind placebo-controlled trial conducted with 81 obese patients, where Bofu-tsusho-san was administered in conjunction with dietary and exercise therapy, a significant decrease in body weight, visceral fat, waist circumference, and hip circumference was reported after six months of intake compared to the placebo. (Reference: Efficacy of Bofu-tsusho-san for Metabolic Syndrome, J Pharm Health Care Sci. 34(6) 513-521)[3]
Other expected effects
防風通聖散, a traditional Chinese herbal medicine containing 18 types of medicinal herbs, offers various expected effects beyond its weight loss benefits.[4]
Improvement of Edema (Swelling)
Due to the inclusion of diuretic herbs such as "Bai Zhu" and "Hua Shi," as well as detoxifying herbs that enhance blood circulation, like "Chuan Xiong," the combination of these herbs can be expected to alleviate edema effectively.
Improvement of Constipation
With the inclusion of laxatives like "Da Huang" and "Mang Xiao," Bofu-tsusho-san promotes bowel movement, facilitating the expulsion of unnecessary substances from the body. If used for constipation, it is recommended to assess its effectiveness after about one week.
Relief of Sinusitis (Chronic Sinus Inflammation)
For sinusitis, it is effective to use Chinese herbal medicine that improves water metabolism, cools down heat, and suppresses inflammation. Bofu-tsusho-san contains "Shi Gao," "Huang Qin," "Lian Qiao," and "Shan Zhu Yu," which are heat-clearing agents. Therefore, it is expected to be effective for symptoms of sinusitis, such as nasal congestion caused by trapped heat and yellow, sticky nasal discharge.
Improvement of Acne
From a Chinese medicine perspective, acne is often associated with internal heat accumulation leading to skin inflammation. Hence, a prescription that removes the accumulated heat and suppresses inflammation is used. The components in Bofu-tsusho-san, including "Huang Lian," "Huang Qin," and "Shan Zhu Yu," possess anti-inflammatory effects. "Bofu" and "Keigai" expel damp-heat along with toxins, contributing to the improvement of acne and skin irritation.
In addition, Bofu-tsusho-san can be effective for conditions such as high blood pressure, palpitations, shoulder stiffness, hot flashes associated with obesity, eczema, and dermatitis.
Who is not suitable for Bofu-tsusho-san?
On the other hand, Bofu-tsusho-san may not be suitable for individuals with weak digestive systems or those prone to diarrhea. As mentioned earlier, the included herbs "Da Huang" and "Mang Xiao" have a laxative effect, which could potentially worsen symptoms of diarrhea or loose stools.
Side effects of Bofu-tsusho-san
Additionally, Bofu-tsusho-san has a cooling effect, so individuals with sensitivity to cold should consider avoiding it. Prolonged use may exacerbate susceptibility to cold conditions.
It's important to note that individual reactions may vary, and those with pre-existing digestive issues or cold sensitivity should exercise caution or seek professional advice before using Bofu-tsusho-san.
While traditional Chinese herbal medicine, or Kampo, is generally considered safe, it's a misconception to believe that natural ingredients, such as herbs, are entirely without side effects.
Similar to food allergies, herbal allergies can occur, leading to various symptoms like upper respiratory issues (nasal congestion, cough), skin reactions (rash, oral ulcers), and digestive symptoms (diarrhea). If any allergy symptoms manifest upon starting the medication, it's advisable to discontinue use.
One of the most commonly reported side effects of Bofu-tsusho-san is diarrhea, which can be more pronounced in individuals prone to weak digestion or pre-existing diarrhea tendencies. However, diarrhea can be a detoxification process, especially if it follows the resolution of chronic constipation. If prolonged diarrhea occurs, discontinuation of the medication is recommended.
Bofu-tsusho-san contains ephedrine-like compounds found in Ephedra, which stimulates the sympathetic nervous system. Caution is advised for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions or when used concurrently with other ephedrine-containing products.
Due to the purgative effects of Dang Gui (当帰) and Shao Yao (芍薬), pregnant individuals are at risk of miscarriage, and it's generally advisable to avoid consumption. Excessive intake of Licorice (甘草) may lead to a condition known as pseudohyperaldosteronism, causing fatigue, edema, elevated blood pressure, and low potassium levels. Care should be taken, especially when combining multiple Kampo medications.
Rare instances of liver impairment have been reported, and immediate medical attention is required if symptoms such as fever, severe fatigue, or yellowing of the skin and eyes occur.
Where can I purchase it?
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Tsumura Chinese Medicine - Bofutsushosan - Extract Granules
| Classification | Category 2 OTC medicine |
|---|---|
| Indications | For those with abundant subcutaneous fat in the abdomen, a tendency towards constipation, and experiencing various symptoms such as: - Palpitations, shoulder stiffness, hot flashes, swelling, and constipation associated with high blood pressure or obesity - Sinusitis (chronic sinus inflammation) - Eczema and dermatitis - Acne - Obesity |
| Form | Granules |
| Dosage | Take twice a day before meals with water or hot water. Adults (15 years and older): 1 packet per dose 15 years and younger, 7 years and older: 2/3 packet per dose 7 years and younger, 4 years and older: 1/2 packet per dose 4 years and younger, 2 years and older: 1/3 packet per dose |
| Amount of Bofu-tsusho-san extract | 2250 mg/adult daily dose (2 packets) |
FAQ about Bofu-tsusho-san
Can I take Bofu-tsusho-san during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
It is not recommended to take Bofu-tsusho-san during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The components "Daioh (Rhubarb)" and "Bouzhi (Mirabilitum)" in the formula have uterine contraction effects, which may pose a risk of premature birth. Additionally, during breastfeeding, anthraquinone derivatives found in "Daioh" may pass into breast milk, potentially causing diarrhea in infants.
When should I take it?
If you are taking other medications, it is advisable to consult with a doctor or pharmacist as simultaneous intake may burden your body. Especially, avoid taking it concurrently with other laxatives. Due to its strong efficacy against constipation, noticeable effects may occur.
【References】
［1］ Takaku Toshio (2013) Explanation of Frequently Used Prescriptions: Bofu-tsusho-san
［2］ Hioki Tomoko et al. (2008) Examination of the Effectiveness of Bofu-tsusho-san for Metabolic Syndrome, J Pharm Health Care Sci. 34(6) 513-521
［3］ Japan Society for the Study of Obesity
［4］ Bofu-tsusho-san Package Insert
