Stye, Acne, and Bladder Inflammation Herbal Remedy: Baenongsangeubtang | Hansarang Korean Medicine Clinic

Hansarang Korean Medicine Clinic in Daerim-dong, Seoul, introduces Baenongsangeubtang, a traditional Korean herbal formula known for its effectiveness in treating inflammatory conditions such as stye, acne, and bladder inflammation. This article explains how it works, its major ingredients, and when it is recommended.

What Is Baenongsangeubtang?

Baenongsangeubtang (排膿散及湯) is a classic herbal prescription whose name literally means “soup that expels pus.” In Korean medicine, it is used to drain pus, reduce swelling, and remove heat toxins from the body. It is especially beneficial for purulent inflammations like styes on the eyelid, pustular acne, and bladder infections accompanied by pain or burning sensations.

How It Works: Traditional Healing Logic

Rather than simply suppressing inflammation, Baenongsangeubtang aims to promote circulation and support the body’s natural elimination of toxins. It helps immature pus disperse before it hardens, and accelerates the discharge of already-formed pus, leading to faster recovery and prevention of chronic infection. This principle reflects the holistic approach of Korean herbal medicine—encouraging balance and detoxification instead of forceful suppression.

Dosage Forms: Pill and Soft Extract

At Hansarang Clinic, Baenongsangeubtang is available in two main forms: pills and soft extract (concentrated form). Pills are convenient for daily use and long-term storage, while the soft extract absorbs quickly and acts faster on active inflammation. The proper form is prescribed according to each patient’s constitution and the severity of their symptoms.

Main Ingredients and Their Actions

• Platycodon (Kikyo, 桔梗) – Promotes the discharge of pus, reduces inflammation, and opens the lung qi.
• Licorice (Gancao, 甘草) – Provides anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects, harmonizes the formula, and relieves pain.
• Bitter Orange (Zhishi, 枳實) – Disperses stagnation and helps resolve swelling and firmness caused by blocked qi.
• Peony Root (Shaoyao, 芍藥) – Enhances blood circulation and relieves pain and muscle tension related to inflammation.
• Ginger and Jujube – Protect the stomach and harmonize the combination of herbs for smooth digestion and absorption.

Applications for Stye and Acne

When used in cases of stye or inflammatory acne, Baenongsangeubtang helps stop the spread of inflammation and promotes natural drainage of pus. It can relieve redness, swelling, and pain, while reducing the risk of recurrence. Once the pus is discharged, the healing process progresses more comfortably and efficiently.

Applications for Bladder and Throat Inflammation

In cases of bladder infection (cystitis) or urinary tract inflammation, this herbal remedy clears damp-heat from the lower abdomen, supports urine flow, and eases pain during urination. Additionally, thanks to the anti-inflammatory actions of Platycodon and Licorice, Baenongsangeubtang is often applied to sore throat, tonsillitis, and lymphadenitis caused by heat accumulation.

Pharmacological Perspective

Modern research indicates that Platycodin (from Platycodon) and Glycyrrhizin (from Licorice) suppress inflammatory mediators and regulate immune response. These components exhibit anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties, scientifically supporting the traditional use of Baenongsangeubtang in managing inflammation and infection.

Who Can Benefit from Baenongsangeubtang?

• Individuals with recurrent or painful styes
• People with pustular or slow-healing acne
• Those suffering from bladder inflammation or painful urination
• Patients with sore throat, tonsillitis, or gum inflammation
• Anyone with localized swelling, redness, and pain from purulent infections

Complementary Herbal Formulas

• Taklisodok-eum (托裏消毒飮) – Enhances detoxification and systemic inflammation relief
• Soshihotang (小柴胡湯) – Reduces throat and lymph node inflammation
• Yongdamsagantang (龍膽瀉肝湯) – Helps clear damp-heat from the urinary tract
• Ilhwang-go (一黃膏) – External herbal ointment for acne or boils

Precautions and Consultation

Baenongsangeubtang should be prescribed after consultation with a licensed Korean medicine doctor, as dosage and duration vary by constitution and condition. Some patients with weak digestion may experience mild discomfort if taken on an empty stomach. It is recommended to take after meals and under professional guidance.

Hansarang Korean Medicine Clinic is located in Daerim-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, near Daerim Station (Line 7) and Guro Digital Complex Station (Line 2). The clinic provides both in-person and online consultations for herbal prescriptions.

For questions about Baenongsangeubtang or personalized herbal treatments, feel free to leave a comment below.

This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Treatment plans may vary according to each patient’s individual diagnosis and constitution.