TCM Treatment for Eczema

Dr Li Rui in Singapore Shares Integrated Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine to Treat Eczema at the Root

Eczema is a common skin condition characterized by redness, intense itching, scaling, oozing, and even crusting. Especially in regions like Singapore with a hot and humid climate, the incidence of eczema is high, and many patients suffer from chronic recurrence. In addition to Western medicine, more patients in Singapore are turning to TCM to reduce the frequency of flare-ups and fundamentally improve their constitution.

Dr Li Rui, who has over 30 years of clinical experience, points out that eczema is not just a surface skin issue; it is closely related to personal constitution, environment, diet, and emotions. By combining acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle management, TCM can effectively relieve symptoms and lower the rate of recurrence.

Symptoms and Common Triggers in Singapore

Common symptoms of eczema include:

Red rashes and intense itching, often symmetrical

Blisters accompanied by fluid oozing

Scaling, thickening, and pigmentation of the skin

Recurrent flare-ups affecting the face, hands, and joints

Clinical data in Singapore shows a high prevalence among children and young adults. Triggers often include humidity, air pollution, dust mites, and stimulating foods (e.g., seafood, spicy food). High stress and irregular sleep also aggravate symptoms.

TCM Analysis of Eczema Causes

In TCM, eczema falls under the category of "Damp-Sores" (Shi Chuang). The root pathology is closely linked to Wind, Dampness, Heat, and Blood Deficiency.

Common TCM etiologies include:

  • Wind-Damp-Heat Invasion: Accumulation of damp-heat leads to inflammation and persistent itching.
  • Spleen Deficiency with Dampness: Weak digestion leads to internal dampness, causing recurrent skin issues.
  • Liver Stagnation and Blood Heat: Chronic stress leads to "Liver Fire," triggering flare-ups.
  • Blood Deficiency and Wind-Dryness: A weak constitution leads to dry, easily irritated skin.

Dr Li Rui notes that Singaporean patients commonly suffer from "Excessive Damp-Heat" and "Spleen Deficiency," requiring treatments that strengthen the Spleen while clearing heat and toxins.

TCM Treatment Methods and Advantages

Syndrome Differentiation & Personalized Care

TCM does not use a "one-size-fits-all" approach. Plans are tailored based on the patient's constitution and the eczema stage:

  • Damp-Heat Type: Redness and oozing; requires clearing heat and draining dampness.
  • Spleen-Deficiency Type: Scaling and dryness; requires strengthening the Spleen.
  • Blood-Deficiency Type: Severe itching and chronic recurrence; requires nourishing blood and moisturizing dryness.

Internal and External Herbal Therapy

Dr Li Rui uses herbal decoctions (e.g., Ku Shen, Di Fu Zi) to clear internal heat and stop itching. External herbal washes are also provided to soothe the skin directly.

Acupuncture for Eczema

Acupuncture is a key feature of Dr Li Rui’s practice. It helps regulate organ function and boost immunity. Key points include Quchi (LI11), Xuehai (SP10), and Zusanli (ST36) to detoxify and strengthen resistance.

Holistic Balancing

Regulating internal organs, harmonizing Qi and Blood, and improving the overall physical constitution.

Daily Precautions and Care

Dr Li Rui reminds eczema patients to pay attention to the following:

Eat a light diet; reduce intake of spicy, fried, and seafood 'trigger' foods.

Keep skin moisturized; avoid over-cleansing and scratching.

Properly care for oozing wounds to prevent infection.

Avoid humidity, dust mites, and harsh chemicals.

Maintain a regular routine and reduce life stress.

Combining TCM treatment with healthy habits can help patients control eczema and improve their quality of life.

Clinical Case Analysis by Dr Li Rui

Dr Li Rui once treated a 20-year-old male patient who had suffered from eczema for years. He relied on steroid creams, but the effects were short-lived, leaving his skin thin and pigmented. After diagnosis, Dr Li Rui identified the cause as "Damp-Heat Steaming the Skin." Treatment focused on clearing heat, detoxifying, and stopping itch, combined with acupuncture to regulate the Spleen. After three months of herbal therapy and dietary management, his symptoms improved significantly. Six months later, his eczema almost never recurred. This case demonstrates how TCM can treat both symptoms and the root cause.

Dr Li Rui

MOH-registered TCM physician with a Master’s degree from the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences and over 30 years of clinical experience

Dr Li Rui holds a Master’s degree from the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences and has over 30 years of experience. She has helped numerous patients resolve stubborn eczema. By combining acupuncture, personalized herbal medicine, and scientific lifestyle management, she offers a trusted natural therapy for Singapore’s high-incidence eczema climate.

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Dr Li Rui Shanghai Chinese Medical Centre Singapore

If you are suffering from eczema or skin allergies, welcome to book a consultation with Dr Li Rui. Early personalized TCM treatment can prevent recurrence and improve your quality of life.

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Shanghai Chinese Medicine Centre

Blk 925 Yishun Central 1
#01-243
Singapore 760925

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+65 6756 1528

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info@tcm-shanghai.com.sg

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