Eczema Treatment in Different Age Groups with TCM
What is Eczema?
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects people of all ages. Conventional treatments, such as corticosteroids and antihistamines, provide symptomatic relief but often fail to address the root causes of eczema. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach that varies across different age groups, targeting the underlying imbalances in the body. TCM treatments—herbal medicine, acupuncture, and dietary therapy—can be customised based on the patient's age, constitution, and specific triggers.
Pathophysiology of Eczema
Eczema is thought to be driven by 3 main mechanisms: immune dysregulation, a compromised skin barrier and an altered microbiome.
Immune dysregulation: Increased levels of T cells can increase the amount of cytokines like IL-4, IL-13 and IL-31 that drive inflammation, leading to itching and skin damage.
Skin barrier dysfunction: Mutations in the filaggrin gene lead to weakened skin integrity, making it more prone to allergens, irritants and infections.
Altered microbiome: Reduced skin microbiome diversity and an overgrowth of Staphylococcus aureus can exacerbate symptoms.
Global statistics and disease burden
According to the National Eczema Association, the global prevalence of eczema is approximately 10 to 20% of children and 2 to 10% of adults worldwide[1].
TCM Principles in Treating Eczema
TCM for eczema is often associated with internal disharmony caused by Wind, Dampness, Heat, and Blood Deficiency. These pathogenic factors lead to symptoms such as itching, dryness, redness, and oozing. The treatment strategy differs depending on the patient’s age, severity of symptoms, and underlying imbalances.
1. Infants and Young Children (0-5 years old)
Eczema is common in infants and young children, often appearing as red, itchy, and weepy patches on the cheeks, scalp, and limbs. TCM considers infant eczema primarily caused by:
Accumulation of Dampness and Heat in the Spleen and Stomach due to an immature digestive system
Wind and Heat invasion, which triggers intense itching and inflammation
TCM Treatment Approach
Herbal Medicine: Mild herbal decoctions such as Xiao Feng San (Eliminate Wind Powder) or Sheng Di Huang (Rehmannia Root) and Bai Xian Pi (Dictamnus Root Bark) can help clear Heat and Wind while nourishing the Blood.
External Herbal Applications: Herbal baths with Sophora flavescens (Ku Shen) and Phellodendron (Huang Bai) reduce inflammation and itching.
Pediatric Tuina (Massage Therapy): Gentle massage techniques help strengthen the Spleen and improve digestion, reducing Dampness accumulation.
Scientific Evidence
A 2021 systematic review published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that pediatric massage and herbal treatments significantly improved eczema symptoms in infants, with fewer side effects compared to corticosteroids (Zhou et al., 2021).
2. Children and Adolescents (6-18 years old)
As children grow, their immune and digestive systems develop, but some still suffer from persistent or worsening eczema. In this age group, chronic Dampness and Blood Heat often contribute to eczema flare-ups. Emotional stress, diet, and environmental factors can exacerbate symptoms.
TCM Treatment Approach
Herbal Formulas:
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang (Gentiana Liver Purging Decoction) for eczema with excessive redness, swelling, and itching due to Liver Heat
Dang Gui Yin Zi (Angelica Decoction for Skin) for chronic, dry, and recurrent eczema caused by Blood Deficiency
Acupuncture: Studies show that TCM and acupuncture reduce itching and inflammation by modulating immune function (Kim et al., 2018). Common points include LI-11 (Quchi), SP-6 (Sanyinjiao), and LV-3 (Taichong).
Mind-Body Therapy: Since stress is a common trigger, practices like Qigong and meditation can help regulate the nervous system.
Scientific Evidence
A *meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Medicine (2022) found that acupuncture combined with herbal medicine was effective in reducing eczema severity and recurrence rates (Li et al., 2022).
3. Adults (19+ years old)
Adult eczema is often more chronic and stubborn, with recurring flare-ups triggered by stress, diet, and hormonal imbalances. Blood Deficiency, Yin Deficiency, and Internal Heat are common underlying causes.
TCM Treatment Approach
Herbal Medicine:
Si Wu Tang (Four-Substance Decoction) to nourish the Blood for dry, cracked skin
Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan (Anemarrhena, Phellodendron, and Rehmannia Pill) for eczema worsened by Yin Deficiency and Heat
Acupuncture: Helps regulate immune function and relieve itching.
Lifestyle Adjustments: Tai Chi, Qigong, and stress management techniques to improve overall balance.
Scientific Evidence
A *systematic review in Journal of Integrative Medicine (2020) found that TCM herbal medicine significantly reduced eczema severity by modulating inflammatory cytokines (Wang et al., 2020).
TCM Dietary Tips for Eczema Management
TCM dietary therapy plays a crucial role in eczema management by reducing inflammatory triggers and strengthening the body's natural healing processes.
Foods to Avoid
Dampness-Generating Foods: Dairy, fried foods, refined sugar, and gluten can worsen eczema by creating Dampness and Heat.
Spicy and Hot Foods: Chilli, garlic, and alcohol can aggravate Heat-type eczema.
Seafood and Shellfish: These can trigger allergic reactions and itching in sensitive individuals.
Recommended Foods
Cooling and Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Cucumbers, pears, lotus root, and mung beans help clear Heat.
Spleen-Strengthening Foods: Millet, sweet potatoes, and barley aid digestion and prevent Damp accumulation.
Blood-Nourishing Foods: Black sesame seeds, goji berries, and dark leafy greens support skin healing.
Scientific Evidence
A *meta-analysis in Nutrients (2021) found that a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and probiotics significantly improved eczema symptoms by reducing inflammation (Chen et al., 2021).
Conclusion
TCM offers a customised and holistic approach to eczema treatment across different age groups, addressing the root imbalances that contribute to flare-ups. By incorporating herbal medicine, acupuncture, pediatric massage, and dietary therapy, TCM helps restore balance and strengthen the body's natural defences.
Scientific research supports the effectiveness of TCM in managing eczema, with numerous studies highlighting its ability to reduce inflammation, regulate the immune system, and improve skin barrier function. By integrating TCM principles and dietary modifications, individuals with eczema can achieve long-term symptom relief and improved skin health.
If you have been suffering from eczema, book an appointment with us at Common TCM. Our team of TCM practitioners can help you relieve your symptoms and guide you on your journey to recovery.
