Neurodermatitisaccording to TCM

What is Neurodermatitis?

Neurodermatitis, also known as lichen simplex chronicus, is a chronic skin condition characterized by an intense itch-scratch cycle. This condition manifests as thickened, leathery patches of skin, often resulting from prolonged scratching or rubbing.

Neurodermatitis commonly appears on areas easily accessible by hands, like the neck, scalp, shoulders, wrists, or ankles. The persistent scratching leads to skin changes, including raised, rough patches that can be discolored. The condition can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful, significantly impacting the quality of life.

How Does TCM View Neurodermatitis?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), neurodermatitis is seen through a holistic lens, focusing on the balance of internal energies and bodily functions. TCM interprets neurodermatitis as a manifestation of underlying disharmonies within the body's Qi (energy), Blood, and organ systems.

These imbalances may involve factors such as Wind, Dampness, or Heat. The goal of TCM treatment is to identify and correct these imbalances, addressing both the root causes and the symptoms. This approach is different from Western medicine, which typically focuses on treating the symptoms directly.

Root Causes of Neurodermatitis in TCM

TCM identifies several patterns that can lead to neurodermatitis. One such pattern is Blood Deficiency with External Wind, where a lack of nourishing blood leads to skin vulnerability, allowing external factors like Wind to aggravate the skin. This pattern is marked by symptoms such as dry, itchy skin, and general fatigue.

Understanding the patterns is crucial in TCM, as they guide the choice of treatment.

Explore below more details about what might cause Neurodermatitis according to TCM.

Blood Deficiency

Blood Deficiency in TCM is like when your body's tank runs low on the vital energy that blood provides. It's not exactly the same as anemia in modern medicine, which is about having too few red blood cells. Instead, Blood Deficiency in TCM is about your body not having enough of the life-giving qualities that blood brings, like nourishment and moisture. This can make you feel tired, look pale, and even feel dizzy or have blurry vision. It's like a garden not getting enough water to stay lush and vibrant. TCM sees this as an imbalance where the body isn't being nourished as it should be, impacting overall health and well-being.... see more

Blood Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Neurodermatitis

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Blood Deficiency with External Wind	Neurodermatitis, Eczema, Red skin eruptions, Urticaria, Ichthyosis, Psoriasis, Measles, Contact dermatitis, Itchy skin, Hair loss, Carbuncles, Boils, Drug rash, Skin dryness, Itching worsen at nights, Flaking skin... see more	Dang Gui Yin Zi

Wind

In TCM "Wind" is a concept that represents a pattern of disharmony, often characterized by its sudden and unpredictable nature, much like a gusty wind changing direction without warning. This pattern is associated with symptoms that come and go quickly or move around the body, such as itching, tremors, or even certain types of pain. Wind is considered to be a primary cause of illnesses that have these rapidly changing characteristics. In TCM, external Wind often refers to illnesses that start suddenly, like the common cold, believed to be caused by external pathogenic factors like climatic changes. On the other hand, internal Wind can be linked to internal imbalances and can manifest in conditions like dizziness or spasms. ... see more

Wind Patterns That Can Lead to Neurodermatitis

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Blood Deficiency with External Wind	Neurodermatitis, Eczema, Red skin eruptions, Urticaria, Ichthyosis, Psoriasis, Measles, Contact dermatitis, Itchy skin, Hair loss, Carbuncles, Boils, Drug rash, Skin dryness, Itching worsen at nights, Flaking skin... see more	Dang Gui Yin Zi

TCM Herbal Formulas for Neurodermatitis

TCM treatment for neurodermatitis involves using specific formulas and herbs tailored to the individual's pattern of disharmony. For instance, in the case of Blood Deficiency with External Wind, a formula like Dang Gui Yin Zi is recommended. This formula, containing herbs like Japanese catnip (Jing Jie), works to nourish the Blood and dispel Wind, addressing the root cause of skin irritation.

Herbs are chosen for their properties that correlate with the underlying imbalances, aiming to restore harmony and alleviate symptoms. It's important to remember that the best treatment plan in TCM is always personalized, based on the individual's unique pattern of symptoms and constitution.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address neurodermatitis, organized by cause and by formula type.

Top Formula for Blood Deficiency:
Dang Gui Yin Zi

Suitable for Blood Deficiency patterns that may cause neurodermatitis, such as Blood Deficiency with External Wind

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Top Formula for Wind:
Dang Gui Yin Zi

Suitable for Wind patterns that may cause neurodermatitis, such as Blood Deficiency with External Wind

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TCM Herbs for Neurodermatitis

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address neurodermatitis, organized by herb category.