Criteria to check first
Expiration Date: Distinguish between these three things
- Check the date for each product and package
- Determine based on storage history
- Do not extend the date arbitrarily
What does the expiration date mean?
The expiration date is the date that indicates until when a product can be used, provided that the indicated Storage ConditionsThis is the date indicating until when the product may be used when storage conditions are followed. Because Gongjindan, Gyeongokgo, and prescribed herbal medicine differ in formulation, moisture content, packaging, and preparation methods, a single common expiration period is not applied.
Even if you search for 'shelf life,' you must first check the dispensing labelYou must first check the use-by date marking.
Is it enough to just check the date?
No. Even if the date has not passed, if the packaging is damaged or if it was stored at a temperature or humidity different from the instructions, contact the preparing institution before taking it. Do not arbitrarily extend the expiration date by refrigerating or freezing.
If there is no date marking or if it is difficult to verify the preparation and storage history, do not take the medicine based solely on its appearance and smell.
What should I do if the expiration date has passed or is unknown?
Refrigerating, freezing, or reheating the medicine does not extend the period it can be used after the expiration date has passed. Check the name of the remaining Korean herbal medicine, Preparation Datethe opening date, and the actual storage conditions, then contact the preparing institution; do not arbitrarily give it to family members or mix it with a new prescription.
If the label has faded, do not guess which Korean herbal medicine it is based on the shape of the packaging or the smell. In the future, taking a photo of the label immediately upon receipt and recording the opening date will make it easier to verify both the expiration date and storage conditions. Even when receiving a new prescription, do not automatically continue taking the remaining amount of previous Korean herbal medicine.
Medical Staff Review
Director Choi Yeon-seung
Chief Director of Baekrokdam Korean Medicine ClinicExpiration Date Preliminary Items, reviewed the safety of expressions and the scope of verification before administration.
Review Scope: Product Facts · Dosage Principles · Safety Boundaries · Patient Guidance Phrases · Last Reviewed 2026-08-25
- Graduated from Kyung Hee University College of Korean Medicine
- Providing Korean medicine treatment since 2010
- Consultations for Gongjindan, Gyeongokgo, Nokyong (Deer Antler) restorative medicine, and customized restorative herbal medicine