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Geummaek Research

Research Papers

A curated collection of academic research relevant to the clinical practice at Geummaek Korean Medicine Clinic.

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Research Papers
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Total 46 papers

All Wellness / Restoration Gongjindan (拱辰丹) Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏) Gwanjeoldan (關節丹) Hyangseongpajeokhwan (響聲破笛丸) Mental Health Skin Conditions Digestive Disorders Respiratory Conditions ENT Disorders Neurological Disorders Pediatric / Adolescent Care Women's Health / Infertility Men's Health / Urology Geum! Maek! Capsule Diet Geum! Maek! Beauty Clinic Private Inpatient Room Traffic Accident Aftercare Pediatric Traffic Accident Workers' Compensation Lower Back Pain Neck Pain Shoulder Pain Elbow Pain Wrist / Hand Pain Hip Pain Knee Pain Ankle / Foot Pain TMJ Disorder
Cohort Study Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Effects of Long-Term Gyeongokgo Administration on Pneumonia Prevention and Pulmonary Function Maintenance in the Elderly: A Cohort Study

Yoon SH, Kim YH, Lee DH, et al.

Respiratory Medicine (2024)

56% Pneumonia Incidence Reduction
42mL Annual FVC Decline Mitigation
214 subjects Study Participants

Long-term Gyeongokgo administration significantly reduces pneumonia incidence and mitigates pulmonary function decline in the elderly, making it effective for respiratory health management in older adults.

View Source 2024
Cohort Study Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Effects of Long-Term Gyeongokgo Administration on Pneumonia Prevention and Pulmonary Function Maintenance in the Elderly: A Cohort Study

Yoon SH, Kim YH, Lee DH, et al. Respiratory Medicine (2024)
56% Pneumonia Incidence Reduction
42mL Annual FVC Decline Mitigation
214 subjects Study Participants

Summary

A prospective cohort study comparing 2-year pneumonia incidence between Gyeongokgo users and non-users among 214 adults aged 70 or older. Pneumonia incidence in the Gyeongokgo group was 8.3 cases per 100 person-years, 56% lower than the non-user group (18.7 cases). Annual FVC (forced vital capacity) decline was 42mL less, also confirming pulmonary function preservation.

Key Conclusion

Long-term Gyeongokgo administration significantly reduces pneumonia incidence and mitigates pulmonary function decline in the elderly, making it effective for respiratory health management in older adults.

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Systematic Review Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Gut Microbiota Modulation Effects of Gyeongokgo Constituent Herbs (Rehmannia, Ginseng, Poria, Honey): A Systematic Review

Hong SH, Choi JK, Kim MJ, et al.

Gut Microbes (2023)

42% SCFA Production Increase
25 studies Studies Analyzed
3 mechanisms Gut Improvement Pathways

Gyeongokgo herbs improve the gut microbial ecosystem through multiple mechanisms—beneficial bacteria proliferation, SCFA production promotion, and gut barrier reinforcement—directly linked to systemic immune enhancement.

View Source 2023
Systematic Review Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Gut Microbiota Modulation Effects of Gyeongokgo Constituent Herbs (Rehmannia, Ginseng, Poria, Honey): A Systematic Review

Hong SH, Choi JK, Kim MJ, et al. Gut Microbes (2023)
42% SCFA Production Increase
25 studies Studies Analyzed
3 mechanisms Gut Improvement Pathways

Summary

A systematic review of 25 studies evaluating the gut microbiota modulation effects of the four key constituent herbs of Gyeongokgo. Iridoid glycosides from Rehmannia promoted Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium proliferation, and ginseng polysaccharides increased short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production by 42%. Beta-glucan from Poria strengthened gut barrier function and improved intestinal permeability.

Key Conclusion

Gyeongokgo herbs improve the gut microbial ecosystem through multiple mechanisms—beneficial bacteria proliferation, SCFA production promotion, and gut barrier reinforcement—directly linked to systemic immune enhancement.

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RCT Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Protective Effects of Gyeongokgo Against Particulate Matter (PM2.5)-Induced Lung Injury: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Kwon DY, Shin AS, Park YJ, et al.

Environmental Health Perspectives (2024)

33% Airway Inflammation Reduction
28% Oxidative Stress Reduction
110 subjects Study Participants

Gyeongokgo protects the lungs by mitigating particulate matter-induced airway inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to the prevention of environmental respiratory diseases.

View Source 2024
RCT Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Protective Effects of Gyeongokgo Against Particulate Matter (PM2.5)-Induced Lung Injury: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Kwon DY, Shin AS, Park YJ, et al. Environmental Health Perspectives (2024)
33% Airway Inflammation Reduction
28% Oxidative Stress Reduction
110 subjects Study Participants

Summary

A randomized controlled trial comparing 12 weeks of Gyeongokgo administration with placebo in 110 adults living in high particulate matter exposure areas. The Gyeongokgo group showed a 33% reduction in fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO, an airway inflammation marker) and a 28% decrease in serum 8-OHdG (oxidative stress marker). Pulmonary function tests also showed significant preservation of the FEV1/FVC ratio in the Gyeongokgo group.

Key Conclusion

Gyeongokgo protects the lungs by mitigating particulate matter-induced airway inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to the prevention of environmental respiratory diseases.

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RCT Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Skin Hydration and Collagen Synthesis Promotion Effects of Gyeongokgo: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

Jang HJ, Lee SY, Cho YH, et al.

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2023)

38% Skin Hydration Increase
29% Collagen Synthesis Promotion
22% TEWL Reduction

Gyeongokgo promotes skin moisture retention and collagen synthesis, delaying skin aging, and provides dermatological validation of its traditional nourishing and moistening properties.

View Source 2023
RCT Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Skin Hydration and Collagen Synthesis Promotion Effects of Gyeongokgo: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

Jang HJ, Lee SY, Cho YH, et al. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2023)
38% Skin Hydration Increase
29% Collagen Synthesis Promotion
22% TEWL Reduction

Summary

A double-blind randomized controlled trial comparing 8 weeks of Gyeongokgo administration with placebo in 84 women complaining of skin dryness. The Gyeongokgo group showed a 38% increase in skin hydration (Corneometer) and a 29% promotion of procollagen type I synthesis. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) decreased 22%, also confirming skin barrier function improvement.

Key Conclusion

Gyeongokgo promotes skin moisture retention and collagen synthesis, delaying skin aging, and provides dermatological validation of its traditional nourishing and moistening properties.

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Before-After Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Mitigation Effect of Gyeongokgo on Cancer Treatment-Related Oral Mucositis: A Pre-Post Comparison Study

Oh MS, Kim DG, Baek SH, et al.

Supportive Care in Cancer (2023)

50% Mucositis Grade Improvement
52% Oral Pain Reduction
34% Salivary Secretion Increase

Gyeongokgo alleviates cancer treatment-related oral mucositis and xerostomia, with its lung-moistening and fluid-generating properties proving effective in managing chemotherapy side effects.

View Source 2023
Before-After Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Mitigation Effect of Gyeongokgo on Cancer Treatment-Related Oral Mucositis: A Pre-Post Comparison Study

Oh MS, Kim DG, Baek SH, et al. Supportive Care in Cancer (2023)
50% Mucositis Grade Improvement
52% Oral Pain Reduction
34% Salivary Secretion Increase

Summary

A pre-post comparison study administering Gyeongokgo for 6 weeks to 56 patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy for head and neck cancer. WHO oral mucositis grade improved from an average of 1.8 to 0.9, and oral pain VAS decreased 52%. Salivary secretion increased 34%, significantly alleviating xerostomia, and weight loss was reduced compared to the control period.

Key Conclusion

Gyeongokgo alleviates cancer treatment-related oral mucositis and xerostomia, with its lung-moistening and fluid-generating properties proving effective in managing chemotherapy side effects.

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Meta-Analysis Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Effects of the Ginseng-Rehmannia Combination in Gyeongokgo on Antioxidant Defense via the Nrf2-ARE Pathway: A Meta-Analysis

Jung WS, Moon SK, Ko CN, et al.

Free Radical Biology and Medicine (2024)

78% Nrf2 Activity Increase
14 studies Studies Analyzed
Nrf2-ARE Key Pathway

The ginseng-Rehmannia combination in Gyeongokgo maximizes endogenous antioxidant defense via the Nrf2 pathway, providing molecular evidence for its anti-aging and lung-protective effects.

View Source 2024
Meta-Analysis Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Effects of the Ginseng-Rehmannia Combination in Gyeongokgo on Antioxidant Defense via the Nrf2-ARE Pathway: A Meta-Analysis

Jung WS, Moon SK, Ko CN, et al. Free Radical Biology and Medicine (2024)
78% Nrf2 Activity Increase
14 studies Studies Analyzed
Nrf2-ARE Key Pathway

Summary

A meta-analysis of 14 studies (10 basic, 4 clinical) evaluating Nrf2-ARE antioxidant pathway activation effects of key Gyeongokgo herbs. Combined administration of ginsenoside Rb1 from ginseng and catalpol from Rehmannia increased Nrf2 nuclear translocation by 78% compared to single agents, with significant increases in downstream antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx).

Key Conclusion

The ginseng-Rehmannia combination in Gyeongokgo maximizes endogenous antioxidant defense via the Nrf2 pathway, providing molecular evidence for its anti-aging and lung-protective effects.

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RCT Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Symptom Relief and Airway Hyperresponsiveness Improvement in Chronic Cough Patients Treated with Gyeongokgo: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Ahn CB, Lee NR, Kim HJ, et al.

Chest (2023)

63% Cough Frequency Reduction
5.8 points LCQ Score Improvement
2-fold Airway Hyperresponsiveness Improvement

Gyeongokgo significantly reduces the frequency and severity of chronic cough and improves airway hyperresponsiveness, with particular efficacy in lung yin deficiency-type chronic cough.

View Source 2023
RCT Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Symptom Relief and Airway Hyperresponsiveness Improvement in Chronic Cough Patients Treated with Gyeongokgo: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Ahn CB, Lee NR, Kim HJ, et al. Chest (2023)
63% Cough Frequency Reduction
5.8 points LCQ Score Improvement
2-fold Airway Hyperresponsiveness Improvement

Summary

A randomized controlled trial comparing 8 weeks of Gyeongokgo administration with placebo in 92 patients with chronic cough lasting 8 weeks or longer. The Gyeongokgo group showed a 5.8-point improvement in LCQ (Leicester Cough Questionnaire) scores and a 63% reduction in cough frequency on 24-hour monitoring. Methacholine challenge testing demonstrated more than a twofold improvement in airway hyperresponsiveness (PC20).

Key Conclusion

Gyeongokgo significantly reduces the frequency and severity of chronic cough and improves airway hyperresponsiveness, with particular efficacy in lung yin deficiency-type chronic cough.

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Cohort Study Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Osteoporosis Prevention Effect of Gyeongokgo: A Prospective Cohort Study in Postmenopausal Women

Sung HK, Choi YM, Kim JY, et al.

Osteoporosis International (2024)

2.1% BMD Increase
27% Bone Formation Marker Increase
136 subjects Study Participants

Gyeongokgo prevents bone density loss and improves bone metabolism in postmenopausal women, demonstrating osteoporosis prevention efficacy through kidney essence reinforcement.

View Source 2024
Cohort Study Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Osteoporosis Prevention Effect of Gyeongokgo: A Prospective Cohort Study in Postmenopausal Women

Sung HK, Choi YM, Kim JY, et al. Osteoporosis International (2024)
2.1% BMD Increase
27% Bone Formation Marker Increase
136 subjects Study Participants

Summary

A prospective cohort study comparing 12-month bone mineral density changes between Gyeongokgo users and non-users among 136 postmenopausal women with osteopenia. The Gyeongokgo group showed a 2.1% increase in lumbar BMD, while the non-user group showed a 1.3% decrease. Serum osteocalcin (bone formation marker) increased 27% and CTX (bone resorption marker) decreased 19%, confirming improved bone metabolism balance.

Key Conclusion

Gyeongokgo prevents bone density loss and improves bone metabolism in postmenopausal women, demonstrating osteoporosis prevention efficacy through kidney essence reinforcement.

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Systematic Review Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Growth and Endocrine Regulation Effects of Gyeongokgo in Children with Precocious Puberty: A Systematic Review

Baek JW, Lim EM, Choi MK, et al.

Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism (2023)

1.2cm Annual Growth Velocity Increase
17 studies Studies Analyzed
IGF-1 Key Growth Factor

Gyeongokgo promotes growth in children while regulating bone age progression, demonstrating potential as adjunctive therapy for yin deficiency-type precocious puberty.

View Source 2023
Systematic Review Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Growth and Endocrine Regulation Effects of Gyeongokgo in Children with Precocious Puberty: A Systematic Review

Baek JW, Lim EM, Choi MK, et al. Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism (2023)
1.2cm Annual Growth Velocity Increase
17 studies Studies Analyzed
IGF-1 Key Growth Factor

Summary

A systematic review of 17 clinical studies evaluating the pediatric growth and endocrine regulation effects of Gyeongokgo. Children receiving Gyeongokgo showed an average 1.2cm increase in annual growth velocity, with significantly slower bone age progression. IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor) levels were optimized within the normal range, and the progression of early puberty signs tended to be delayed.

Key Conclusion

Gyeongokgo promotes growth in children while regulating bone age progression, demonstrating potential as adjunctive therapy for yin deficiency-type precocious puberty.

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Systematic Review Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Systematic Review of Pulmonary Function Improvement in COPD Patients Treated with Gyeongokgo

Hwang JH, Kang MS, Li X, et al.

COPD: Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (2023)

12 studies Included Studies
842 subjects Total Participants
FEV1 8.3% improvement Pulmonary Function Improvement

Adjunctive Gyeongokgo administration showed significant improvement in pulmonary function indices and exercise tolerance in COPD patients.

View Source 2023
Systematic Review Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Systematic Review of Pulmonary Function Improvement in COPD Patients Treated with Gyeongokgo

Hwang JH, Kang MS, Li X, et al. COPD: Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (2023)
12 studies Included Studies
842 subjects Total Participants
FEV1 8.3% improvement Pulmonary Function Improvement

Summary

A systematic analysis of 12 randomized controlled trials investigating the adjunctive effect of Gyeongokgo for COPD patients. FEV1/FVC ratio, 6-minute walk distance, and CAT scores were comprehensively evaluated.

Key Conclusion

Adjunctive Gyeongokgo administration showed significant improvement in pulmonary function indices and exercise tolerance in COPD patients.

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Before-After Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Role of Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Activity of Rehmannia Extract in Gyeongokgo Efficacy

Yang SH, Moon PD, Choi IH, et al.

Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2022)

iNOS 58% inhibition Anti-Inflammatory Effect
DPPH IC50 23.4μg/mL Antioxidant Activity

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of Rehmannia constitute one of the core mechanisms supporting the yin-tonifying efficacy of Gyeongokgo.

View Source 2022
Before-After Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Role of Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Activity of Rehmannia Extract in Gyeongokgo Efficacy

Yang SH, Moon PD, Choi IH, et al. Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2022)
iNOS 58% inhibition Anti-Inflammatory Effect
DPPH IC50 23.4μg/mL Antioxidant Activity

Summary

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Rehmannia were evaluated in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Dose-dependent inhibition of iNOS and COX-2 expression and DPPH radical scavenging capacity were confirmed.

Key Conclusion

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of Rehmannia constitute one of the core mechanisms supporting the yin-tonifying efficacy of Gyeongokgo.

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RCT Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Effect of Gyeongokgo on Academic Fatigue and Cognitive Function in Examinees: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial

Ahn YC, Son CG, Kim TH, et al.

Integrative Medicine Research (2024)

60 subjects Participants
Attention 22% improvement Cognitive Improvement
8 weeks Administration Period

Gyeongokgo may help reduce academic fatigue and maintain cognitive function in examinees.

View Source 2024
RCT Gyeongokgo (瓊玉膏)

Effect of Gyeongokgo on Academic Fatigue and Cognitive Function in Examinees: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial

Ahn YC, Son CG, Kim TH, et al. Integrative Medicine Research (2024)
60 subjects Participants
Attention 22% improvement Cognitive Improvement
8 weeks Administration Period

Summary

Sixty third-year high school students preparing for the college entrance exam were assigned to a Gyeongokgo group or placebo group and observed for 8 weeks. The Gyeongokgo group showed significantly higher scores on attention (CPT) and memory tests.

Key Conclusion

Gyeongokgo may help reduce academic fatigue and maintain cognitive function in examinees.

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