Kampo (漢方) is traditional Japanese herbal medicine. Adapted from classical Chinese medicine and refined within Japan over many centuries, it is today a regulated part of mainstream Japanese healthcare rather than an alternative practice sitting outside it. This guide explains what Kampo is, how it is standardized and quality-controlled, and what international B2B buyers should understand before sourcing it.
What is Kampo medicine?
Kampo refers to a system of herbal formulas, each combining several plant- and mineral-based ingredients in fixed proportions. Unlike single-herb supplements, a Kampo formula is a defined multi-ingredient preparation with a long documented history of use. In modern Japan, Kampo is practised by licensed physicians and pharmacists and is dispensed as standardized extracts.
Kampo within Japan’s healthcare system
Japan integrates Kampo into conventional medicine to a degree unusual among developed countries. Since the government first approved four formulas in 1967, the number recognized as prescription drugs has grown to 148 formulas covered by the national health insurance system. Doctors in regular hospitals and clinics prescribe them, often alongside Western medicines, and national regulators oversee their quality and safety.
Manufacturing is concentrated among a small number of licensed producers. Tsumura alone makes 128 of the 148 insurance-covered formulas, making it the dominant supplier, with other established makers producing the remainder.
How Kampo is standardized and quality-controlled
Most prescription Kampo is supplied as dried granulated extract — raw herbs are decocted, concentrated and spray-dried into a consistent granule. Production follows Japan’s Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) requirements under the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Act, with identity and content controls on the botanical raw materials. This standardization is a key reason international buyers value Japanese-made Kampo: batches are consistent and traceable.
Formats relevant to B2B buyers
- Prescription (医用) extracts — the 148 insurance-listed formulas, supplied mainly as granules.
- OTC (一般用) Kampo — consumer versions sold in pharmacies, often in tablets or granules.
- Crude drugs / raw herbs (生薬) — individual botanical materials used to compound formulas.
What international buyers should know
Because Kampo products are regulated pharmaceuticals or quasi-drugs in Japan, cross-border sourcing involves the destination country’s own import rules as well as Japanese export requirements. Working with a Japan-based trading partner helps buyers confirm authenticity, secure consistent supply and navigate documentation. Tsubaki Trading supplies Japanese Kampo and herbal products on a business-to-business basis — you can browse our Kampo & herbal catalogue or submit an inquiry for specific formulas, quantities and destinations.
Frequently asked questions
What is Kampo medicine?
Kampo is traditional Japanese herbal medicine, adapted from classical Chinese medicine and developed within Japan. It is regulated and integrated into mainstream Japanese healthcare.
Is Kampo covered by insurance in Japan?
Yes — 148 Kampo formulas are approved as prescription drugs and covered by Japan’s national health insurance.
Who manufactures Kampo in Japan?
Several licensed makers; Tsumura is the largest, producing 128 of the 148 insurance-covered formulas.
This article is provided for general B2B information only. It describes the regulatory and commercial context of Kampo in Japan and does not constitute medical advice or any claim regarding the treatment, prevention or cure of any condition.