A young Japanese woman who stretches out in nature

Feeling the seasonal change in Japan? It’s the perfect time to give your body a boost and support immunity with kampo (漢方)– Japan’s traditional herbal medicine. Kampo has been used for centuries to help the whole body, not just symptoms.

Look for products from the two big names in Japanese kampo: クラシエ (Kracie) and ツムラ (Tsumura). Kampo comes in pills or powders (mixed with warm water), and can help treat everything from colds, PMS, and stomach issues, to headaches, muscle pain, and beyond.

Unlike regular medicine, it takes a holistic approach, with formulations tailored to your body’s unique constitution. For a natural, time-tested way to feel balanced and well, it’s worth exploring the kampo aisle at your local drugstore.

TTsumura Kampo Hochuekkito (ツムラ漢方 補中益気湯)

Best for: Fatigue and Gastrointestinal Function Issues

Summary and What Pharmacists Say: 

If you’re running on empty or just not bouncing back after being sick, this herbal formula can give your body the boost it needs. It’s made for people with weak stomachs who tire easily or lose their appetite, and it works by helping your digestion absorb more nutrients so your “qi” (life energy) can recover. Think of it as a gentle reset for when you’re run-down, dealing with night sweats, or catching colds too often. Pharmacists often suggest this option for those who want to rebuild their strength and stamina from the inside out. 

Dosage: Take the following amount with water or lukewarm water before a meal. This medication should be given to children only under adult supervision. 

Age	Dose	Daily Dosage
15 years or over	1 packet	2 times a day
7-14 years	⅔ packet
4-6 years	½ packet
2-3 years	⅓ packet
Less than 2 years	Do not use

Price: Varies by pharmacy. Approximately ¥1,800 for 10 packets (5-day supply)

Sokeikatsuto Extract Tablets Kracie (疎経活血湯エキス錠クラシエ)

Best for: Joint Pain and Sore Muscles

Summary and What Pharmacists Say: 

If stiff joints, sore muscles, or nagging back pain are part of your everyday life, this herbal formula offers gentle relief. Rooted in a classic prescription from traditional Chinese medicine, Sokeikakketsuto is designed to improve circulation and ease stiffness, making it easier to move without discomfort. Pharmacists often recommend this option for those dealing with recurring back or muscle pain who want a natural, supportive remedy. 

Dosage: Take the following amount with water or lukewarm water before or between meals. Not suitable for under-5-year-olds. 

Age	Dose	Daily Dosage
15 years or over	4 tablets	3 times a day
7-14 years	3 tablets
5-6 years	2 tablets
Less than 5 years	Do not use

Price: Varies by pharmacy. Approximately ¥2,388 for 96 tablets.

Kyushin Herbal Medicine (救心)

Best for: Heart-related Weakness, Shortness of Breath, Fatigue, and Dizziness

Summary and What Pharmacists Say: 

If you’ve ever found yourself winded after climbing stairs, drained from long work hours, or lightheaded on a hot day, this herbal formula could be the pick-me-up you need. Kyushin is made from a blend of natural plant and animal ingredients that work together to ease palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, and that heavy, tired feeling when your energy dips. It’s especially handy for moments of fatigue during hiking, golf, or even long flights, helping you feel more awake and steady. Pharmacists recommend this option for people who want quick relief from sudden weakness or a pounding heart, with its small, fast-dissolving pills designed for easy absorption. Do not chew or hold them under your tongue, since the ingredients can leave a temporary numbing sensation in your mouth.

Dosage: Take the following amount with water or lukewarm water in the morning, evening, and before bedtime. Not suitable for under-15-year-olds. 

Age	Dose	Daily Dosage
15 years or over	2 tablets	3 times a day
Less than 15 years	Do not use

Price: Varies by pharmacy. Approximately ¥2,200 for 30 tablets.

Harry Kakkonto Liquid (ハリー葛根湯液)

Best for: Early-stage Colds, Headaches, Stiff Shoulders

Summary and What Pharmacists Say: 

If a cold is sneaking up with a stuffy nose, headache, or stiff shoulders, this herbal formula is a natural way to fight back without making you sleepy. It targets the early stages of colds, rhinitis, and headaches, easing muscle aches and stiffness while keeping you alert- perfect for workdays or busy weekends. Since it contains KANZOU (甘草) and MAOU (麻黄), taking too much can cause side effects like high blood pressure, water retention, or a racing heartbeat. Older users and those with heart or kidney issues should be especially cautious and stick to the recommended dose.

Dosage: Shake well before use. Take the following dose 2-3 hours after a meal. Not suitable for under-15-year-olds. 

Age	Dose	Daily Dosage
15 years or over	1 bottle (45ml)	2 times a day
Less than 15 years	Do not use

Price: Varies by pharmacy. Approximately ¥550 for 2 bottles.

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This information is based on interviews with Japanese drugstore employees and available product data as of September 2025. Always read the product packaging and instructions carefully, and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or questions about your treatment. 

For more information, read our full guide to drugstores in Japan. This page has been brought to you as a public service of The Bluff Medical and Dental Clinic in Yokohama.