The skin turning red, itching, and becoming inflamed can lead to insomnia and a decrease in the quality of life, causing feelings of frustration and despair. Eczema is a common skin condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a natural, holistic approach to managing and relieving eczema.
Based on the TCM theory, eczema is seen not only as a skin disease but as a manifestation of imbalances within the body, with wind-heat and damp-heat being common culprits. Factors like hot baths and fever can exacerbate these imbalances, triggering eczema symptoms.
By addressing the root causes of eczema, TCM can provide long-term relief without the use of stimulative or heavily side-effect-laden medications. If you wish to avoid stimulative medicine like steroid creams, TCM offers natural alternatives through oral herbal medicine, topical herbal ointments, acupuncture, and dietary adjustments to restore balance to the body’s internal systems.
TCM Treatment for Eczema
TCM treatment for eczema aims to eliminate the accumulated damp and heat toxins within the body while improving the patient’s overall constitution to restore normal bodily functions.
TCM practitioners usually use such methods as questioning, observing, and pattern differentiation to prescribe oral herbal medicine, apply herbal ointments, or use herbal fumigation. The treatments are often complemented by holistic approaches, including acupuncture, massage, and herbal medicine. TCM typically achieves rapid and effective results in the treatment and relief of eczema.
Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine for eczema is typically in powder form, making it convenient for patients to consume. These herbs work by stimulating the body’s natural healing mechanisms and addressing the root causes of eczema. They can also improve digestion and enhance immunity to prevent recurrence.
- Massage
Chinese massage therapy(Tuina) targets specific acupoints, stimulating the body’s natural healing processes and restoring internal balance. This helps reduce inflammation, alleviate itching, and improve overall skin health. Massage is a gentle and safe method that can enhance a child’s natural immunity, reducing the occurrence of eczema flare-ups.
- Herbal Baths
Herbal bath therapy involves herbs with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The preparation of herbal baths: It usually involves soaking the herbs in hot water for 10 minutes and then adding warm water. After that, you can then soak in the tub for 20 minutes, allowing the skin to absorb the herbal components and promote healing.
TCM Tips for Eczema
TCM takes a holistic approach to treating eczema, incorporating lifestyle changes and natural therapies to promote overall health.
- Use mild or unscented soap for short baths
Bathing helps remove irritants, but prolonged exposure to water and harsh soaps can dry and further irritate the skin. To avoid this, it is recommended to keep bath time short, not exceeding 10 minutes, and use mild or unscented soap. Alternatively, opt for a gentle, non-irritating herbal shower.
- Wear breathable clothing
Synthetic fibers and tight clothing can trap moisture and irritants on the skin, exacerbating eczema symptoms. On the other hand, breathable materials like cotton allow the skin to breathe, helping to prevent moisture buildup and reduce the risk of further irritation.
- Regularly trim nails
Eczema can cause itching, and regularly trimming nails can reduce the risk of scratching and prevent secondary infections. Use an unscented moisturizer to further alleviate itching without worrying about unnecessary side effects.
Gentle and natural approaches to Eczema
TCM not only addresses the external symptoms of eczema but emphasizes the use of natural therapies to restore balance to the body.
If you are seeking a gentle, natural approach to control eczema symptoms, TCM, as a safe and effective alternative or complementary treatment to Western methods, is worth trying.
At Shanghai Medical Clinic, our Chinese doctors in Dubai are dedicated to providing long-term solutions that can bring lasting relief and improve skin health for those struggling with eczema.
