We do not understand exactly why we develop eczema and it is likely to have a genetic as well as environmental roots. One theory is that an irritant or an allergen causes the immune system to over react – causing inflammation. This inflammation leads to those unwelcome symptoms of eczema.

According to TCM your skin is directly linked to the organ of the Lung. Our skin is so integral to the function of our lungs that in TCM it is often referred to as the Third Lung. Let’s think about your skin – the pores of your skin can be visualised as tiny doorways through which our vital energy – our Qi – can flow, allowing energy to flow into and out of our body and to keep it healthy. An easy way to understand this is to consider how sweat leaves our body through the pores of our skin taking with it unnecessary salts and cooling us down in the process.

The health of our skin therefore is a direct reflection of the strength of our Lung Qi. When there is an imbalance in this organ – or indeed any other organs, this can cause our skin to malfunction – resulting in the distressing symptoms of eczema.

After talking with their patient a skilled practitioner will be able to identify the underlying cause of the problem. For example fairly mild itching with slightly pink skin indicates a deficiency at the level of Qi. Red, angry and intensely itching skin suggests that the problem lies at the level of the Blood. Your practitioner will then be able to prescribe the right sort of TCM treatment for your specific condition.

Chinese Medicine for eczema

Can Chinese medicine cure eczema? There is a wide range of wonderfully effective TCM treatments for eczema. Don’t just take our word for it – there is a mass of evidence that demonstrates that Chinese remedy for eczema helps to clear up eczema – and provides long lasting relief from this condition.

Moxibustion is a relaxing Chinese herbal treatment for eczema where the herb Moxa – or Mugwort in English – is applied to the skin. When lit the herb releases warmth that is deeply relaxing and nourishing to the body’s energy. This Chinese herbal medicine for eczema can help to calm down irritated skin. A substantial amount of Research shows that moxibustion is a powerful Chinese eczema treatment.

Acupuncture for eczema is another very helpful treatment. This tcm treatment for eczema is very effective at drawing out excess heat from the body – internal heat can be an underlying cause of this condition. During an acupuncture treatment single use, sterile stainless steel needles will be used to support the function of the Lung. Needles may be inserted into your hands, feet and perhaps along your back, and will not be placed into the site of the irritated skin. The treatments are profoundly relaxing and the best thing is that are safe, evidence based and effective.

Chinese herbal medicine for eczema: Anemarrhenae rhizome, also known as Zhi Mu, is one of the most effective Chinese herbs for eczema. It can help clear the inner fire and drains heat from inside. To better get to the root cause of eczema, you can also take formulated eczema Chinese medicine Xiao Feng San which expels wind and clears heat from the body. 

Some helpful healthy skin tips

Many eczema sufferers find that they can help their condition by paying attention to following a Chinese medicine eczema diet. Try limiting gluten, sugar, and dairy products as these can cause inflammation.

As Eczema in Chinese Medicine is classified as a Hot condition, TCM eczema diet will advise you to limit your intake of warming spices such as ginger, cloves and cinnamon.

Make sure that you moisturise your skin regularly using a good quality product. Look out for moisturisers that are rich in shea butter and jojoba and limit your exposure to synthetic formulas such as those found in perfumes and deodorants.

Wherever possible avoid taxing the skin by wearing too much perfume – however some natural essential oils such as chamomile and lavender can be very soothing to the skin and also have a nourishing effect on stressed out minds.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We can’t guarantee the treatment result, as the symptoms of conditions are unpredictable and vary greatly from person to person. The treatment length and recovery time also varies for individual. Please visit our clinics website: GinSen where a specialists will discuss your care and provide a consultation, and the treatment will be designed to meet your individual needs.