Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes inflammation, redness, and itching. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), eczema is caused by internal imbalances and is frequently associated with the body’s moisture, heat, and wind. Herbal medication, acupuncture, and dietary changes are the mainstays of TCM therapy, which aim to restore bodily equilibrium.
Learn the five herbs essential for TCM eczema in Singapore.
1. Huang Qin (Scutellaria Baicalensis)
Huang Qin is a widely used herb in Chinese medicine for eczema, primarily for its heat-clearing and dampness-drying properties. TCM practitioners prescribe it to reduce inflammation and control excessive skin moisture, which can contribute to eczema flare-ups. It is often included in formulations for skin redness, swelling, and itching. Huang Qin is typically used in decoctions, powders, or topical applications to calm irritated skin. When taken internally, it targets systemic heat and dampness, addressing the root causes of eczema according to TCM principles.
2. Ku Shen (Sophora Flavescens)
Ku Shen is another herb commonly recommended for eczema cure. It has bitter and cold properties, making it effective in clearing heat and drying dampness. It is often used in herbal baths, washes, or creams to relieve itching and inflammation. Ku Shen contains alkaloids with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which help control secondary infections caused by scratching. In TCM eczema cure, Ku Shen is frequently combined with other herbs to enhance its effectiveness in managing persistent skin conditions.
3. Zi Cao (Arnebia Euchroma)
Zi Cao is recognised in TCM for its ability to cool the blood and detoxify the skin. It is used in formulations targeting eczema cases with severe redness, heat, and swelling. Zi Cao is often found in ointments and creams designed for topical application to reduce irritation and promote skin healing. It is also included in some internal herbal prescriptions to eliminate heat from the bloodstream. Zi Cao contributes to the long-term management of eczema symptoms when combined with other heat-clearing and detoxifying herbs.
4. Bai Xian Pi (Dictamnus Dasycarpus)
Bai Xian Pi is frequently used in TCM for eczema relief, particularly in cases involving damp-heat accumulation. This herb has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which help manage infections that may arise from prolonged scratching. Bai Xian Pi is included in decoctions or external washes to reduce inflammation and control oozing skin lesions. It is often recommended as part of a broader eczema treatment strategy, along with dietary modifications based on the TCM eczema diet. Bai Xian Pi supports long-term skin health and reduces the frequency of flare-ups by addressing damp-heat imbalances.
5. Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis)
Dang Gui is used in TCM for its blood-nourishing properties and its role in skin repair. In cases of chronic eczema, where the skin appears dry and cracked, Dang Gui helps promote circulation and tissue regeneration. It is often included in formulations to balance the immune system and enhance the body’s natural healing processes. While it does not directly clear heat or dampness like other herbs, its inclusion in TCM eczema treatments supports overall recovery. TCM practitioners may combine Dang Gui with other herbs to customise treatments based on patient needs.
Conclusion
TCM offers a holistic approach to eczema treatment by addressing the underlying causes rather than just the symptoms. The aforementioned herbs are frequently used in TCM formulations to treat skin irritation, inflammation, and itching. Depending on the individual’s body constitution and the particular eczema presentation, these herbs are frequently prescribed in combination with Chinese medicine for eczema. Despite the potential effectiveness of these TCM herbal treatments, it is still critical to seek advice from a practitioner to ensure appropriate dosage and consumption.
Visit Tangs Clinical TCM to learn about our TCM solutions for eczema management.
