We know the secret to Japanese longevity. The mysterious Kampo diet is behind it.

What can we envy the people of Japan? Certainly their famous longevity. One of its secrets may be the so-called Kampo Medicine and the diet it consists of. What is it about?

I know, the introduction to the secret of longevity may interest some, and others may laugh out loud. But don't worry, Kampo is a science of traditional medicine in Japan , started around the 7th century.

It is more than just therapy , but rather a holistic approach to treatment that also includes a more philosophical view of health and well-being .

Kampo medicine has been adapted to suit Japanese culture and traditions. It consists of elements such as acupuncture , herbal medicine , Anma touch therapy , and a traditional diet .

Illustrative photo / photo: Unsplash, Hideki Nishiyama

The latter, called Yakuzen or Shokuyou , supports the maintenance of our health by providing the appropriate products to balance our Yin (cold energy) and Yang (heat energy), which is key to understanding the Kampo diet.

For Kampo practitioners, each food has specific characteristics known as nature and taste.

As we read on the Japanese Acupuncture website, cold energy patients are advised to eat more Yang foods, such as ginger , pumpkin , or cinnamon , and limit those of a Yin nature. Warm energy patients, on the other hand, should eat more Yin foods, such as oranges or lettuce , and limit their intake of Yang foods.

Illustrative photo / photo: Unsplash, John Vid

The Kampo diet also emphasizes natural, wholesome products and avoids excess processed foods. Experts also emphasize that food should not burden the digestive system and should be prepared in the right amounts and proportions.

Importantly, Kampo is not treated as some kind of mysterious alternative medicine in Japan .

What makes it unique is its integration with modern Japanese healthcare . Kampo herbal remedies are often prescribed alongside conventional Western medicines, or even instead of them, in the treatment of some conditions.