Understanding Eczema: A Holistic Perspective  


Eczema, also known as dermatitis, encompasses a group of conditions characterized by skin inflammation, redness, itching, and dryness. The most common form of eczema is atopic dermatitis, an inherited condition often linked to other allergic disorders such as asthma and hay fever. 

However, eczema can manifest in various forms, including:  

  • Allergic Contact Eczema  
  • Contact Eczema  
  • Dyshidrotic Eczema  
  • Neurodermatitis  
  • Nummular Eczema  
  • Seborrheic Eczema  
  • Stasis Dermatitis  

While conventional treatments focus on managing symptoms with medications and skincare regimens, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers alternative and natural approaches by addressing the root causes of eczema based on individual diagnostic patterns.  


Chinese Medicine’s Approach to Eczema

In TCM, the treatment of eczema is highly individualized, with a focus on identifying the specific imbalances or patterns contributing to the condition. These patterns form the basis for personalized treatment plans that may include acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary adjustments.  

Common TCM diagnostic patterns for eczema include:  

  • Heat in the Blood: Excess heat and toxins in the blood cause skin inflammation and itching.  
  • Kidney Yin/Yang Deficiency: Imbalances in kidney energy disrupt the body’s ability to nourish and protect the skin.  
  • Liver Wind: Dysfunction in the liver energy system leads to skin irritation and flare-ups.  
  • Spleen Yang Deficiency: Weak digestion and poor nutrient absorption contribute to dampness and skin issues.  

Commonly Used Herbal Formulas

TCM practitioners often incorporate herbal remedies to support skin health and reduce inflammation. Commonly used formulas for eczema include:  

  • Fangfeng Tongsheng Wan
  • Si Wu Tang
  • Jing Fang Baidu Wan

By addressing both the symptoms and the underlying patterns, TCM provides a comprehensive and natural approach to managing eczema, promoting long-term skin health and overall balance.


Research

Vieira 2016 (Evidence-based review of CAM)(1): acupuncture and acupressure ‘promising therapies’; insufficient evidence

Vieira BL, Lim NR, Lohman ME, Lio PA. Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Atopic Dermatitis: An Evidence-Based Review. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2016 Jul 7.