Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by itchy, red, and dry skin. It affects over 30 million Americans, mostly children.
While topical creams and oral medications can help manage symptoms, many patients turn to natural and alternative treatments like traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to find relief.
Understanding TCM Principles for Eczema Treatment
TCM views health as a balance between opposing forces in the body. In eczema, TCM identifies three main imbalances driving the condition:
- Wind – This represents external pathogenic factors that can penetrate and disturb the skin’s protective energy. Changes in weather, temperature, and emotions are common “wind” triggers for eczema flares.
- Dampness – An unhealthy diet and poor Spleen function leads to accumulation of dampness in the body, manifesting as oozing blisters and skin irritation in eczema.
- Heat – Stress, hormonal changes, spicy foods, and infections generates excess heat affecting the skin.
TCM also recognizes that deficiencies in the Liver, Spleen, and Kidneys contribute to eczema by weakening the body’s ability to expel wind, dampness, and heat. Treatment aims to clear these pathogenic factors while nourishing the organ systems.
TCM Remedies for Eczema
Herbal Medicine
Herbal formulas containing ingredients like licorice, mint, honeysuckle, and Kochia scoparia are frequently used to treat eczema. They work by clearing heat and dampness, calming irritation, and modulating the immune response.
Clinical trials have shown certain herbal preparations can reduce eczema severity and need for topical steroids.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture helps balance energy, remove blockages, and activate the body’s healing abilities. A review of studies found acupuncture significantly improved eczema symptoms like itching and insomnia. It also reduced need for antihistamines.
Cupping and Gua Sha
Cupping uses suction on the skin to draw out toxins and improve circulation. Gua sha are short strokes applied to the skin with a smooth object to stimulate microcirculation and clear stagnation. Both can help alleviate eczema inflammation and itching.
Dietary Therapy
A TCM practitioner may recommend avoiding “damp-producing” foods like dairy, greasy meat, sweets, alcohol, and cold/raw vegetables and fruits. Emphasizing warm, cooked foods that strengthen the Spleen and Kidney can help alleviate eczema.
Qigong and Tai Chi
These mind-body practices use meditation, breathwork, and gentle movements to cultivate vital energy (Qi). Reducing stress and building Qi enhances the immune and detoxification systems to prevent eczema flares.
Considerations for Using TCM
TCM offers a holistic approach to reduce eczema severity and frequency of flares. However, there is still limited clinical trial evidence on efficacy and safety of specific TCM eczema treatments. Those interested should consult a licensed practitioner.
TCM may interact with certain medications or health conditions, so disclose your full medical history. Monitor for any side effects and inform your physician about using TCM.
While promising, more research is still needed to confirm the appropriate role of TCM in eczema management.
Trusted Sources:
- The treatment of eczema with Chinese herbs: a systematic … National Institutes of Health (.gov) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov › PMC2014284
- Effect of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in moderate- … Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology https://www.jacionline.org › article › fulltext
- Traditional Chinese medicine for food allergy and eczema Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology https://www.annallergy.org › article › pdf
