Eczema is one of the most common and stubborn skin conditions, affecting millions worldwide. For those struggling with its relentless itchiness, redness, and inflammation, finding effective treatment can feel like a never-ending quest1.
While Western medicine often relies on steroids and antihistamines, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) approaches the condition from a completely different angle, offering a natural and holistic pathway to relief2.
But does it work? Let’s dive into both perspectives to uncover the truth about Chinese medicine for eczema.
What Is Eczema? A Quick Overview
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition marked by symptoms such as3:
- Red, inflamed skin
- Intense itching
- Dryness, cracking, or oozing
- Thickened or leathery patches (in chronic cases)
Western medicine identifies eczema as an allergic reaction triggered by environmental or internal factors. Common culprits include pollen, dust mites, certain foods, and even stress. The condition often results from an overactive immune response, where the body releases inflammatory molecules like histamines, causing flare-up4s.
While medications such as corticosteroids can effectively manage symptoms, they don’t address the root cause or prevent recurrence. This has led many to explore alternative therapies like TCM, which promises not just symptom relief but also long-term healing.
WARNING: There is no conclusive evidence that Chinese medicine can do any better, so if you have been treated with modern medicine and are still conservatively troubled, try traditional medicine to treat it while staying safe.
How Does Chinese Medicine View Eczema?
In TCM, eczema is referred to as “湿疮” (shī chuāng), or “damp sores,” and has been recognized for centuries in ancient Chinese texts. Unlike Western medicine, which focuses on external triggers, TCM emphasizes internal imbalances as the root cause5. The condition is believed to stem from a combination of6:
- Internal dampness and heat: Poor digestion (linked to the spleen in TCM) leads to the accumulation of “dampness,” which can manifest on the skin.
- Wind invasion: Environmental “wind” disrupts the body’s balance, causing itching and spreading rashes.
- Blood deficiency or heat: Poor circulation or toxins in the blood contribute to inflammation.
According to TCM, treating eczema requires addressing these root causes through a combination of internal herbal treatments, dietary adjustments, and external therapies.
Comparing Western Medicine and TCM for Eczema Treatment
| Aspect | Western Medicine | Traditional Chinese Medicine |
|---|---|---|
| Core Philosophy | Treats symptoms directly, often with anti-inflammatory or antihistamine medications | Focuses on restoring internal balance to address underlying causes |
| Primary Approach | External treatments (steroid creams, moisturizers) and oral medications | Internal herbal remedies and lifestyle adjustments |
| Strengths | Rapid symptom relief | Holistic approach with fewer side effects |
| Limitations | Risk of side effects (e.g., skin thinning from steroids) and recurrence after stopping treatment | Slower results; requires long-term commitment |
| Personalization | Generalized treatments for most patients | Highly individualized based on body constitution and symptoms |
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Key Components of TCM for Eczema
1. Herbal Medicine: Healing From the Inside Out
Herbal remedies are central to TCM treatments for eczema. Instead of suppressing symptoms, these formulas aim to balance the body, reduce inflammation, and improve immunity. Common herbs include7:
- Honeysuckle (金银花) and Forsythia (连翘): Known for their cooling and detoxifying properties.
- Rehmannia (生地黄): Nourishes blood and reduces dryness.
- Sophora root (苦参): Alleviates itching and inflammation.
For example, a classic TCM prescription for eczema may include a blend of herbs like honeysuckle, rehmannia, and plantain seed, tailored to the individual’s unique symptoms.
2. Dietary Adjustments: Food as Medicine
TCM practitioners often emphasize the importance of avoiding foods that exacerbate “dampness” and “heat.” Patients are typically advised to8:
- Avoid: Spicy foods, alcohol, shellfish, and tropical fruits like mangoes and pineapples.
- Include: Cooling, detoxifying foods such as mung beans, winter melon, and barley.
A classic piece of advice in TCM is: “The spleen loves dryness and hates dampness.” This means eating light, easily digestible meals to support digestion and reduce internal dampness.
3. External Treatments
In addition to internal remedies, TCM offers external therapies such as:
- Herbal baths or compresses: Ingredients like honeysuckle and purslane are boiled and applied to the skin to relieve itching and inflammation9.
- Acupuncture: Helps balance the flow of “qi” (energy) and reduce stress, which can trigger eczema flare-ups10.
4. Lifestyle Changes
TCM emphasizes the importance of maintaining emotional balance and proper sleep to prevent flare-ups. Stress, anger, and overthinking are seen as triggers that can generate internal “heat,” worsening eczema symptoms. Practicing mindfulness, yoga, or tai chi can complement TCM treatments.
Does Chinese Medicine Work for Eczema?
While TCM has been used for centuries, its effectiveness for eczema has only recently been studied in clinical settings. A 2017 review published in The Journal of Dermatological Treatment found that herbal remedies used in TCM showed promise in reducing eczema symptoms, particularly in children11. However, researchers noted that more rigorous studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Another study in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2019) highlighted the benefits of acupuncture in reducing itching and improving sleep quality in eczema sufferers12. These findings suggest that TCM can be a valuable complementary therapy, especially for those seeking natural alternatives.
FAQs About TCM for Eczema
1. How long does it take to see results?
Most patients notice improvements within 4-6 weeks, but chronic cases may require months of treatment.
2. Are there any risks?
When prescribed by a licensed practitioner, TCM is generally safe. However, self-medicating with herbs can lead to adverse effects. Always consult a qualified TCM doctor.
3. Can TCM be used alongside Western medicine?
Yes! Many patients combine TCM with topical steroids or antihistamines for faster relief while addressing the root cause. But before you do, you need to consult a medical professional.
Bottom line
Chinese medicine offers a fresh perspective on eczema, focusing on long-term healing and overall well-being. While it may not provide instant relief like Western medicine, it addresses root causes and can complement conventional treatments. For those frustrated with recurring flare-ups or seeking a more natural approach, TCM is worth exploring.
Trusted source
- https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/eczema#:~:text=Key%20facts%201%20Eczema%20is%20a%20common%20skin,flare%20ups%2C%20such%20as%20corticosteroid%20creams%20and%20ointments. ↩︎
- https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/eczema/eczema-antihistamines ↩︎
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9998-eczema ↩︎
- https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/eczema/atopic-dermatitis-eczema ↩︎
- http://health.people.com.cn/n/2015/0704/c14739-27253167.html ↩︎
- https://zhuanlan.zhihu.com/p/687257003 ↩︎
- http://health.people.com.cn/n1/2016/0601/c21471-28400798.html ↩︎
- https://www.scm.cuhk.edu.hk/zh-cn/articles-redirect/238-ming-pao/582-2018-07-17-1 ↩︎
- https://patents.google.com/patent/CN105560331A/zh ↩︎
- 曹洋, 蔡念宁, 张广中, 等. 针灸推拿在湿疹治疗中的应用概述[J]. 中国中医药信息杂志, 2009, 16(8): 105-106. ↩︎
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2210803324001167 ↩︎
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7041622/ ↩︎
