Gongjindan Ingredients and Benefits – How to Take Musk Gongjindan

9월 16, 2025

Daerim-dong Oriental Medicine Clinic
We will introduce how to take Musk Gongjindan, the proper method of consumption, and explain the differences in its efficacy, effects, and ingredients. Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Gongjindan.

Gongjindan Ingredients

Gongjindan is made from a refined combination of four core medicinal herbs: musk, deer antler, angelica root, and cornelian cherry.

In traditional Korean medicine, the interaction between medicinal herbs is highly valued. Gongjindan is a formula in which this principle of synergy is perfectly realized.

Generally, the formula containing musk is called “Musk Gongjindan” or “Original Gongjindan.”
Since musk is extremely rare and valuable, it is sometimes replaced with other herbs such as costus root (mokhyang) or agarwood (chimhwang), creating variants such as Mokhyang Gongjindan or Chimhwang Gongjindan.
In some formulas, the amount of deer antler is increased, creating what is known as Deer Antler Gongjindan.

What is Musk?

The key ingredient of Gongjindan is musk. When discussing the efficacy of Gongjindan, musk cannot be left out.

Musk is obtained from the musk gland (scent sac) of the male musk deer, located between the navel and the genitals. It is considered one of the most precious medicinal substances.

In traditional medicine, musk is known to unblock stagnant qi, clear the mind, and enhance the effects of other herbs by helping their properties spread quickly throughout the body.

Musk is strictly regulated under CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species), and only musk that has been officially imported through the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety’s legal pharmaceutical channels can be used in authentic Gongjindan formulas.

Efficacy and Effects of Musk Gongjindan

Musk plays the role of the chief herb (gunyak) by unblocking stagnant qi and helping the effects of other herbs circulate throughout the body.

Deer antler strengthens bones and muscles, replenishes jing (essence) and blood, and boosts vitality.
Angelica root is a representative blood-tonifying herb, supporting blood production, circulation, and overall nourishment.
Cornelian cherry tonifies the liver and kidneys while preventing leakage of essential energy with its astringent properties.

In traditional medicine, health is described as a balance called su-seung-hwagang (water rising, fire descending):

The cooling water energy of the kidneys rises to clear the head.
The warming fire energy of the heart descends to warm the abdomen and limbs.

However, stress, overwork, and aging disturb this balance, leading to symptoms such as headaches, dry eyes, chest tightness, insomnia, indigestion, cold hands and feet, and fatigue.

Gongjindan is believed to restore this balance and strengthen the body:

Musk unblocks circulation.
Deer antler restores vitality.
Angelica and cornelian cherry replenish qi and blood, bringing balance back to the body.

Who May Benefit from Taking Gongjindan?

Gongjindan is not designed to treat a specific disease but rather to restore overall balance and enhance general health.

Office workers suffering from chronic fatigue and stress.
Those experiencing liver function decline and low energy due to overwork and late nights.
Students preparing for exams who need stamina, focus, and memory support.
Middle-aged men and women going through menopause, who may experience hot flashes, anxiety, and fatigue.
People with weak constitutions or lowered immunity after illness, who frequently catch minor illnesses.
Anyone needing a boost in physical condition before important presentations, performances, or exams.

How to Take Gongjindan

Because Gongjindan is an expensive premium herbal medicine, it is important to take it correctly to experience its full value.

For best results, take it consistently at a set time.
Morning intake is recommended since Gongjindan enhances stamina and focus.
It can be taken regardless of meals—either on an empty stomach or after eating.
Do not swallow immediately. Instead, chew slowly or let it dissolve in the mouth so that the medicinal properties are absorbed through the tongue and oral mucosa.

The unique aroma of musk spreading in the mouth enhances its effect of unblocking stagnant energy.

Other Types of Gongjindan

Apart from Musk Gongjindan, there are several variations:

Mokhyang Gongjindan (using costus root instead of musk).
Chimhwang Gongjindan (using agarwood instead of musk).
Deer Antler Gongjindan (increasing the amount of deer antler).
Intelligence Gongjindan (Chongmyeong Gongjindan) – a combination of Gongjindan and Chongmyeong-tang, often given to students.

The exact formula may vary depending on the condition, so it is important to consult with a licensed clinic before use.

Precautions and Consultation

This article provides general information about Musk Gongjindan. Effects may vary depending on individual constitution and condition.

Gongjindan can be prescribed only after an in-person or telemedicine consultation at a licensed clinic.

Hansarang Korean Medicine Clinic in Daerim-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul is conveniently located near Daerim Station (Line 7, Exit 11) and Guro Digital Complex Station (Line 2, Exit 4).
We are also easily accessible from Shindebang, Guro, Geumcheon, Yongsan, Doksan, Singil, Sillim, Gwanak, Yangcheon, Mok-dong, Dongjak, Gangseo, Mapo, and Sindorim.

For further inquiries about how to take Gongjindan or consultations, please call our clinic.

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