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The underlying theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine is that the body should be in a perfect state of physical and emotional balance to reach harmony with the outside world. When the balance is upset, disease results. In the case of my young eczema patient it was obvious after an examination of his pulse and the colour and texture of his tongue, that the cause of his problem was excessive dampness in his stomach causing indigestion. In addition, the drugs he had been taking to control his condition had, over time, contributed to the accumulation of excess of toxins in his body.
Following time-honoured TCM principles I use two key methods to restore balance: acupuncture and herbal therapy. Acupuncture involves the insertion of sterilized fine steel needles at specific points in the body in order to stimulate the function of internal organs.
Three body meridians are essential to the treatment of eczema 每 the lung, spleen and liver meridians. These three organs have direct influence on the skin. The choice of acupoints in the spleen meridian is of primary importance for eczema patients and it takes a qualified practitioner to identify them correctly. In the hands of an expert the procedure isn＊t painful and most patients gain immediate relief from itching.
The TCM treatment of eczema aims for more than temporary relief. The ultimate goal is 100% cure.
In the Chinese medical system there are some 10,000 herbs that are used for medicinal purposes. About 1,000 of these are used in daily practice. The selection of herbs is highly sophisticated and it takes knowledge and experience to make the optimal choice for each particular patient. Rarely does one prescribe the same herbs for different patients. This is true even if patients suffer the same disease.
Blood plays a defensive role by delivering nutrients and removing metabolic wastes, toxins and pathogens from the body. In the case of chronic eczema, I have observed that the patient＊s blood is deficient and the immune function is weak. This problem is not difficult to solve. Herbs with properties of cleansing and enriching are safe, effective and economical. They may taste bitter but when taken as prescribed they can be highly effective.
As well, patients should detoxify their system regularly with herbs that are readily available in supermarkets and herb stores, such as:
Coix Seed 每 a grain with anti-bacterial, anti-cancer properties.
Mung Bean 每 to help expel heavy metals and pesticides from the system. Boil until the beans split, and eat as a warm dish.
Honeysuckle Flowers and Dandelion 每 helps remove toxins from the lung and stomach. (Cooked or raw.)
Portulaca 每 helps cleanse the intestines
A healthy lifestyle is of utmost importance to prevent re-occurrence of eczema. Anything that aggravates the symptoms should be avoided. This includes food allergens; although food allergies are a very individual matter, common irritants may include wheat, corn, dairy, soy, peanuts, eggs, beef, and lamb. As well, patients should avoid skin irritants such as wool and lanolin. Exposure to environmental triggers can also worsen symptoms, as can exposure to water, changes in temperature, sweat and stress. Dry skin often makes the condition worse. When washing or bathing, patients should keep water contact as brief as possible and use a minimal amount of soap. After bathing it is important to apply a high quality lubricating cream to trap any moisture while the skin is still damp.
Other rules include:
Do not smoke or drink alcohol, coffee or soft drinks.
Limit your sugar intake and avoid junk food.
Eat lots of fresh vegetables and whole foods.
Drink plenty of water.
Exercise daily and get outside for fresh air.
If patients take shared responsibility for their well-being, eczema can be cured. After six months of regular treatment my young male patient had finally returned to good health. He is an example of the hope that TCM offers for all sufferers of eczema. By following a well-designed program of treatment and adhering to dietary recommendations, patients can permanently live life without the constant itch.