Research Trends on Gungha-tang: A Review of Korean and International Studies

궁하탕의 연구 동향 분석 - 국내·외 문헌을 중심으로 -

Objectives: Gungha-tang (GHT) is the most frequently prescribed health insurance herbal preparation in Korea, widely used for functional dyspepsia and musculoskeletal disorders caused by Phlegm-Fluid (Dam-eum). Despite its extensive clinical application, scientific evidence remains fragmented. This study aims to comprehensively review the pharmacological activities, safety profile, and clinical status of GHT. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across domestic and international databases, including PubMed, CNKI, ScienceON, Oriental Medicine Advanced Searching Integrated System, Korean Traditional Knowledge Portal, Naver Academic and RISS, up to February 2026. Results: 11 studies regarding quality control, preclinical pharmacology, toxicity, and clinical cases were selected and analyzed. LC-MS/MS analysis established nine marker compounds for quality control. Pharmacologically, GHT demonstrated cardioprotective effects against ischemia-reperfusion injury and exerted anti-inflammatory activities by inhibiting JNK and p38 MAPK signaling pathways. It also improved lipid profiles in hyperlipidemia models. Safety evaluations, including hERG channel assays and single-dose toxicity tests, indicated a wide safety margin (approximate lethal dose > 5,000 mg/kg). However, analysis of clinical data suggested potential herb-drug interactions, particularly with aspirin (bleeding risk), statins (myopathy), and calcium channel blockers. Conclusions: GHT shows robust preclinical anti-inflammatory/cardioprotective effects and excellent safety, supporting phlegm-related functional dyspepsia /musculoskeletal use.