TCM Treatment for Eczema: Treating Both Symptoms and Root Causes, Emotional Management is Key
Eczema is a common chronic allergic skin disease, known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as "Shi Zhen" or "Man Run Chuang." A physician at the Shanghai Chinese Medicine Centre notes that the typical characteristics of eczema are moist, symmetrically distributed skin rashes accompanied by intense itching and a tendency for recurring outbreaks.
The Close Link Between Emotions and Eczema
Dr Li Rui points out that emotional fluctuations are closely related to the recurrence of eczema. High levels of stress, emotional tension, anxiety, and insomnia can all lead to a worsening of the condition. Conversely, severe itching can trigger irritability, anger, and poor sleep, creating a distressing vicious cycle.
In TCM, the occurrence of eczema is linked to the imbalance of the Spleen and Stomach, internal accumulation of damp-heat, and emotional stagnation. Long-term emotional suppression and "stagnant Qi" can affect the circulation of Qi and Blood, causing damp-heat to become trapped in the skin, which triggers or exacerbates eczema.
The Advantages of TCM in Treating Eczema
TCM treatment for eczema emphasizes "Syndrome Differentiation," adopting different therapeutic methods for the acute and chronic phases:
• Acute Phase: Focuses on clearing heat, dispelling dampness, and relieving itchiness. Using herbal formulas and external treatments helps to quickly alleviate skin inflammation.
• Chronic Phase: Focuses on nourishing the blood, moisturizing dryness, and promoting circulation to relieve itching. Combined with acupuncture, this helps repair the skin and improve the overall constitution.
TCM treatment for eczema requires time and patience. It focuses on holistic regulation—from diet and lifestyle habits to emotional management—to comprehensively improve the constitution and reduce recurrences.
Emotional Management and Lifestyle Advice
• Maintain a positive mood and avoid excessive tension, anxiety, or fits of anger.
• Maintain a balanced routine, avoid overwork, and engage in moderate exercise without excessive sweating.
• Avoid scalding the affected area with hot water and avoid harsh external medications.
• Avoid "trigger" foods such as spicy ingredients, chicken, duck, beef, mutton, fish, and shrimp.
• Refrain from scratching to prevent skin damage and secondary infections.
TCM Recommended Dietary Therapy
1. Fresh Imperata Root and Job's Tears Congee: Clears heat and promotes diuresis; suitable for the acute phase of eczema.
2. Mung Bean, Lily Bulb, and Job's Tears Soup: Clears heat and moisturizes the skin, helping to alleviate eczema symptoms.
Dr Li Rui reminds patients that emotional regulation is just as important as constitutional improvement. TCM treatment for eczema does not merely focus on the skin's surface; it prioritizes the regulation of internal organs, Qi, and Blood functions. By balancing Yin and Yang, it improves the constitution from the inside out, helping patients break free from the burden of eczema.
