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Essential Kampo Formulas for General Clinicians Managing Female-Specific Conditions: A Nationwide Survey of
Takashi Takeda1, Masanori Isobe2, Takeshi Nagamatsu3
1Division of Women's Health, Research Institute of Traditional Asian Medicine, Kindai University, Osaka, Japan.
Background:
Although female-specific conditions are frequently encountered in general clinical practice, nonspecialist physicians may have limited preparedness to manage these conditions. Therefore, Kampo medicine may be a practical therapeutic option in these settings.
Aim:
To identify Kampo formulas that are considered essential for general clinicians managing female-specific conditions through a nationwide survey of obstetricians and gynecologists (OB/GYNs) in Japan.
Methods:
An anonymous web-based questionnaire was administered among members of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Kampo Research Group between May and September 2025. The respondents selected up to eight Kampo formulas that were considered essential. Recommendation frequencies were analyzed, and the eight most frequently recommended formulas were defined as essential Kampo formulas. Associations with physician characteristics were examined using logistic regression and correspondence analyses.
Results:
Thirty Kampo formulas were used. The recommendation frequencies showed a nonuniform distribution, with endorsements concentrated among a limited number of formulas. Eight formulas, Kamishoyosan, Keishibukuryogan, Tokishakuyakusan, Goreisan, Yokukansan, Hangekobokuto, Hochuekkito, and Kamikihito, were identified as essential. Recommendation patterns were consistent across physicians' backgrounds, although minor differences were observed according to sex and clinical experience.
Conclusions:
A core set of Kampo formulas commonly recommended by OB/GYNs was identified, providing a practical foundation for clinical education and the implementation of Kampo medicine by general clinicians managing female-specific conditions.
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