Eczema is a dry skin condition. It’s most common in the creases of the elbows and wrists, and behind the knees. It also affects babies’ faces, in particular the cheeks. In mild cases of eczema, the skin is dry, scaly, red and itchy. In more severe cases there may be weeping, crusting and bleeding.
There are two main types of eczema: atopic and contact.
Atopic eczema is the most common form. It tends to develop in childhood, sometimes just after birth. Many children grow out of it as they get older, but it can flare up again when they’re adults.
Contact eczema usually affects adults. It’s caused by contact with an allergen, such as nickel, or substances that irritate the skin, such as detergents, soaps and perfumes.
What causes these symptoms?
Our skin provides a strong, effective barrier that protects the body from infection or irritation. If you have eczema, your skin may not produce as much fats and oils as other people’s and will be less able to retain water. The protective barrier is therefore not as good as it should be. Gaps open up between the skin cells, Moisture is then lost from the deeper layers of the skin, allowing bacteria or irritants to pass through more easily.
How does Chinese medicine view eczema?
Chinese medicine theories think Eczema is usually a mixture of Interior Heat and Dryness. Heat appears as an inflammation or over-stimulation. Heat can come from irritating chemicals, foreign organisms, or the overly stimulating diet. Heat is also the by-product of our metabolism. Frustration and emotional friction are considered to cause heat as well. Dryness can come from heat, fluid deficiency, or a dry environment and also deficiency of blood or other fluids.
How to treat eczema by Chinese medicine?
There is wide variety of herbs, each of which may vary from individual to individual as to efficacy. The most popular formula is available as a concentrated powder, which is dissolved in water or other liquid. Normal course of treatment is one month at a time.
Because eczema is a highly individual condition which varies from person to person and has to take in account triggers such us emotional or physical stress, periods (For women), illness and certain foods. It is better to do a consultation with us before taking any Chinese herbs.
Dietary elements that have been reported to trigger eczema include dairy products and coffee, soybean products, eggs, nuts, wheat and maize , though food allergies may vary from person to person.