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Korean medicine · 한방 다이어트

Korean Herbal Diet Programs in Gangnam

Monthly herbal medicine (pills or decoctions) to reduce appetite, plus diet coaching. Many formulas contain ephedra, so screening matters.

Quick facts
  • Korean name: 한방 다이어트
  • Procedure time: 30 to 45 minutes first consultation
  • Anesthesia: None
  • Sessions: Usually 1 to 3 months of medicine with monthly reviews
  • Downtime: None
  • Results: Appetite change in 1 to 2 weeks; weight change over 1 to 3 months
  • Lasts: Weight is often regained if diet and exercise habits do not change

What is Korean Herbal Diet Program?

Korean medicine clinics in Gangnam sell weight loss programs built around prescribed herbal medicine, often called hanbang diet. Programs usually run in 1-month blocks with in-person or remote check-ins.

The herbs are prescribed by a Korean medicine doctor and are not the same as supplements sold in shops.

How it works

The doctor checks weight, body composition, blood pressure and medical history, then prescribes a formula in pill, granule or liquid pouch form. Many diet formulas contain mahuang (ephedra), which suppresses appetite and raises metabolism; others are ephedra-free. Programs may add acupuncture, cupping or meal plans.

Who it suits

  • Adults wanting appetite support alongside diet changes
  • People who prefer Korean medicine to GLP-1 injections
  • Long-stay visitors who can attend monthly check-ins

Who should skip it or wait

  • Heart disease, arrhythmia, high blood pressure or hyperthyroidism (ephedra risk)
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • People taking stimulants, MAO inhibitors or some antidepressants
  • Eating disorders

Side effects and risks

  • Palpitations, insomnia and sweating (ephedra)
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Stomach upset or constipation
  • Liver injury with some herbal products (rare)

Aftercare

  • Take doses in the morning to protect sleep
  • Check blood pressure regularly
  • Stop and call the clinic if you have chest pain or palpitations
  • Avoid extra caffeine and pre-workout supplements

Planning around your trip

Ask for an English ingredient list; ephedra is controlled or banned in some countries, so check customs rules before packing it.

Korean Medicine clinics near Apgujeong

Last reviewed October 2026. General information only, not medical advice. A doctor confirms what suits you at consultation.

Korean Herbal Diet Program price

Prices for this treatment depend on the doctor's assessment, so clinics quote after consultation. Message us and we collect quotes from clinics near Apgujeong Station.

Korean Herbal Diet Program questions

Does the herbal diet medicine contain ephedra?

Many do, as mahuang. Ask the doctor whether yours does and how much, especially if you have heart or blood pressure issues.

Can I take the herbs back to my home country?

Personal amounts are often allowed, but ephedra-containing products are restricted in several countries, including the US for dietary supplements. Check your customs rules first.

How is this different from Wegovy or Saxenda?

GLP-1 injections are prescription drugs with large trials behind them. Herbal programs have less evidence and work mainly through appetite suppression and stimulation.

Can the clinic ship refills overseas?

Some clinics offer remote consultations and international shipping, but legality depends on the destination country. Ask before committing to a multi-month program.

Will I need blood tests?

Good clinics check blood pressure and ask about heart history. Some also check liver function before and during longer programs.

How much weight do people usually lose?

Clinics often describe losses of a few kilograms per month, but there are no large trials. Results depend heavily on diet changes, and weight often returns after stopping.

Plan your visit

Get a quote before you fly

Send the treatment, your dates and any past procedures. We reply in English with options, prices and clinic locations near Apgujeong Station.