[Hinews] [Physician's Column] By Mankee Hwang, MD, PhD, Kibon Korean Medicine Clinic

Today, obesity is recognized not just as a cosmetic concern but as a serious medical condition. Obesity is closely linked to diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease, making proactive management and treatment essential. Although multiple diet and treatment options are available, Western anti-obesity medications often pose significant risks of side effects. For example, certain medications have been linked to risks such as pancreatitis and thyroid cancer, underscoring the need for careful decision-making by both patients and healthcare providers.

Amid these challenges, traditional Korean medicine (Hanuihak) is attracting attention as a potentially safer and effective alternative. Unlike Western approaches, Korean medicine views obesity not simply as weight gain but as a complex condition resulting from factors like individual constitution, imbalances in yin and yang, and dysfunctions in organ systems. Treatment focuses not only on weight loss but on restoring overall bodily balance and promoting long-term health. A central concept in this approach is Yogi (therapeutic hunger management), which is fundamental to Korean medicine’s obesity treatment.

Yogi, which literally means ‘treating hunger,’ targets persistent hunger and stress—two factors that often derail dieting efforts. These challenges often result in failed weight loss attempts or the so-called yo-yo effect. Korean medicine tackles this through Yogi prescriptions, which combine specific herbal remedies to boost metabolism, regulate appetite, and alleviate hunger pangs.



Two prominent herbs in Yogi prescriptions are Ma Huang (Ephedra sinica) and Coix Seed (Coix lacryma-jobi). Ma Huang (Ephedra sinica) increases body heat, stimulates circulation, and promotes fat metabolism, aiding weight loss. It also suppresses appetite, helping to prevent overeating. Coix Seed, known for its diuretic properties and ability to reduce edema, supports digestive function and helps curb hunger. Together, these herbs in a Yogi prescription help reduce hunger-related discomfort, support metabolic health, and promote sustainable weight loss.

One major strength of Korean medicine’s obesity approach lies in its personalized nature. Treatments are tailored to a patient’s unique constitution, health status, and lifestyle, minimizing the risk of side effects. It also addresses mental well-being and stress—key contributors to diet failure—while fostering psychological resilience. This holistic approach emphasizes long-term health and overall balance rather than focusing solely on short-term weight loss.

In conclusion, Yogi is a cornerstone of Korean medicine’s obesity treatment, offering more than hunger relief—it helps restore bodily balance to support sustainable weight management and overall health. Recognized as a relatively safe method, Korean medicine holds promise as a complementary solution to modern obesity challenges. Continued research and interest in concepts like Yogi could position Korean medicine as a meaningful alternative in integrative healthcare.