Sclerodermaaccording to TCM
Symptom families: Autoimmune Disorders, Chronic Inflammatory Conditions, Rheumatic and Arthritic Disorders
What is Scleroderma?
Scleroderma, also known as systemic sclerosis, is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by the hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues. This condition is the result of overproduction and accumulation of collagen in the body tissues, leading to a range of symptoms from skin thickening to complications in internal organs such as the heart, lungs, and kidneys. The severity of scleroderma can vary widely from mild localized forms to systemic forms that can be life-threatening.
How does TCM view Scleroderma?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views scleroderma not as an autoimmune disorder, but as a consequence of imbalances within the body’s vital energy systems and the presence of pathogenic factors. It is believed that the body's Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang must be in harmony for good health, and scleroderma symptoms are indicative of an underlying disharmony. TCM practitioners aim to identify the specific pattern of imbalance in each patient, which is essential for determining the most effective treatment plan.
Causes of Scleroderma According to TCM
According to TCM, scleroderma may be linked to several internal disharmonies, particularly the Stagnation of Blood and Qi, as well as the presence of internal Cold or Dampness. For instance, a pattern of Damp-Heat and Blood Stasis in the lower Burner (pelvic region) can manifest as skin hardness and tightness.
The presence of internal Cold can contribute to the circulation issues and Raynaud’s phenomenon often seen in scleroderma patients. The TCM approach to these patterns involves activating the circulation of Blood and Qi and resolving Dampness to alleviate symptoms.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Scleroderma
In managing scleroderma, TCM relies on herbal formulas tailored to the individual’s pattern of disharmony. Dang Gui Si Ni Tang, with Dong Quai as the key herb, is utilized to warm Interior Cold and treat heart vessel obstruction, addressing circulatory issues and systemic coldness.
For Blood Stagnation, Huang Qi Gui Zhi Wu Wu Tang, which contains Milkvetch Roots, is often prescribed to warm the meridians and improve circulation. Yi Yi Fu Zi Bai Jiang San, featuring Job's Tears, is chosen specifically to clear Damp-Heat and Blood Stasis in the Lower Burner, a pattern commonly associated with scleroderma symptoms. These formulas are part of a holistic strategy to address both the root causes and the manifestations of the disease in TCM practice.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address scleroderma, organized by formula type.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that warm interior cold
- Formulas that warm the meridians and disperse cold
- Formulas that clear wind-Cold
- Formulas that clear internal abscesses and sores
Formulas that warm Interior Cold
Scleroderma can be treated by these formulas when it is caused by an internal cold condition, needing treatments that warm the body's interior.
One such formula is Dang Gui Si Ni Tang, with dong quai as a key herb.
Formulas that warm the Meridians and disperse Cold
Scleroderma can be treated by these formulas if it results from cold obstructing the meridians, leading to pain or stiffness, requiring warming and dispersing actions.
One such formula is Huang Qi Gui Zhi Wu Wu Tang, with milkvetch root as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Wind-Cold
Scleroderma can be treated by these formulas when it stems from external pathogenic influences characterized by cold and wind symptoms.
One such formula is Ma Huang Tang, with ephedra as a key herb.
Formulas that clear internal abscesses and sores
Scleroderma can be treated by these formulas if it is related to internal heat causing abscesses and sores.
One such formula is Yi Yi Fu Zi Bai Jiang San, with job's tears as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Scleroderma
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address scleroderma, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Herbs that drain dampness
Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Scleroderma can be treated by these herbs when there is a need to dispel external cold and warm the body, especially in cases where there is insufficient Yang energy internally.
One such herb is Cinnamon Twigs (Gui Zhi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for scleroderma, like Dang Gui Si Ni Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior" recommended for scleroderma
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Cinnamon Twigs (Gui Zhi) | Dang Gui Si Ni Tang | Huang Qi Gui Zhi Wu Wu Tang |
| Ephedra (Ma Huang) | Ma Huang Tang |
Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency
Scleroderma can be treated by these herbs in cases of blood deficiency, working to nourish and replenish the body's blood supply.
One such herb is Dong Quai (Dang Gui), a key herb in some formulas recommended for scleroderma, like Dang Gui Si Ni Tang.
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Scleroderma can be treated by these herbs when stemming from a lack of vital energy or Qi, helping to boost energy and overall vitality.
One such herb is Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for scleroderma, like Huang Qi Gui Zhi Wu Wu Tang.
Herbs that drain Dampness
Scleroderma can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness in the body, aiding in eliminating damp through diuretic action.
One such herb is Job's Tears (Yi Yi Ren), a key herb in some formulas recommended for scleroderma, like Yi Yi Fu Zi Bai Jiang San.