Dermatosisaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Dermatological Conditions & Symptoms
What is Dermatosis?
Dermatosis refers to a broad category of skin conditions that encompass various disorders affecting the skin's health and appearance. These conditions can range from common issues like eczema and acne to more complex diseases like psoriasis or dermatitis.
Characterized by symptoms like redness, itching, dryness, or scaling, dermatosis can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. Understanding the specific type and cause of dermatosis is crucial for effective treatment, as it can be influenced by a myriad of factors including genetics, environmental triggers, and overall health.
How does TCM view Dermatosis?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a unique perspective on dermatosis, distinct from the approach of Western medicine. TCM views skin disorders as external manifestations of internal imbalances within the body’s systems.
According to TCM, the health of the skin is closely linked to the balance of Qi (vital energy), Blood, and the harmony of the body's organ systems, especially the Liver, Spleen, and Kidney. TCM practitioners emphasize diagnosing the specific pattern of disharmony leading to dermatosis, focusing on restoring internal balance to treat the skin condition.
Causes of Dermatosis According to TCM
In TCM, the causes of dermatosis are often rooted in internal imbalances related to specific organ systems. One common cause is Lung Qi Deficiency, which can lead to skin dryness and susceptibility to external irritants.
Another frequent pattern is Lung or Kidney Yin Deficiency with Empty Fire, where the body lacks the essential Body Fluids to nourish and moisturize the skin, leading to conditions like dry, itchy, or scaly skin. These patterns illustrate how TCM links skin health to the overall balance of internal energies and organ functions, emphasizing a holistic approach to treatment.
TCM Herbs for Dermatosis
In treating dermatosis, TCM employs a variety of herbs tailored to the individual's pattern of disharmony. For conditions such as Lung Qi Deficiency and Lung and Kidney Yin Deficiency, herbs like Chinese Gall (Wu Bei Zi) are frequently recommended. Wu Bei Zi, known for its pungent, sour, and cold properties, targets the Kidney, Large Intestine, and Lung.
It helps in stabilizing and binding, addressing the underlying deficiencies that manifest as skin disorders. This approach highlights TCM’s focus on using specific herbs to harmonize and balance the body's internal environment, thereby alleviating dermatosis.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that stabilize and bind
Herbs that stabilize and bind
Dermatosis can be treated by these herbs if it is caused by a leakage of bodily fluids or energies, helping to consolidate and preserve the body's essential substances.
One such herb is Chinese Gall (Wu Bei Zi), which is directly recommended for dermatosis.