Benefits of Acupuncture for Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
Acupuncture | Apr 01, 2021

Eczema which is also known as atopic dermatitis can be explained in very simple words as the inflammation of the skin.

It is prevalent in about 15 – 20 % of children and 1- 3 % of adults worldwide according to the statistics as on 2015. Some studies indicate that the prevalence in some countries are reducing while others there is an increasing trend of this disease.

As we understand, it affects children more than adults from the statistics  mentioned above.

What are the symptoms of Eczema?

  • Rashes which are reddish sores on the skin
  • Urticaria (itching)
  • Dryness
  • Can also be infected if scratched
  • Scaling of skin
  • Presents most commonly on the scalp, dorsal aspect of the limbs, around joints
  • Skin thickening

Description: Eczema In Pictures | Everyday Health

What are the causes of Eczema?

  • The commonest cause is an allergic reaction of the skin to several allergens including food, environmental, pollutants, pollen etc…
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Generally associated with bronchial asthma or hay fever

What’s Eczema according to Acupuncture therapy (based on TCM)?1

Skin, being the largest organ of our body which is all-pervading the human body. It protects us from external injuries, environmental pollutants & toxins, pathogens like bacteria, virus, fungi, etc….

So, in terms of TCM; skin is considered as the protector of our internal organs in line with modern medical science and is associated with immunity. The LUNG & Large Intestine Channel or Meridian is considered as the organ responsible for our immunity and defence mechanism against external pathogens and environmental pollutants.

This explains why there is a correlation between Bronchial asthma, allergies, immunity and ECZEMA, both in terms of modern science and traditional Chinese medicine (acupuncture), isn’t it?

Let’s dive a bit deep to understand this in terms of TCM; an imbalance in the Lung channel or meridian or organ can be the trigger for an allergic reaction on the skin. In most of the cases of ECZEMA we can find a concomitant symptom of respiratory allergy which explains that Lung Channel is responsible for skin health and immunity.

Description: Meridian System Description Chart Female Body Stock Illustration - Download  Image Now - iStockDescription: Icon

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How does Acupuncture help in managing Eczema?2

As we have understood in the earlier question & answer, an imbalance in the lung channel is one of the probable causes of allergic reaction leading to eczema.

In order to heal  & manage the eczema and it’s symptoms, we address lung Channel by inserting very fine filiform acupuncture needles (single use disposable and pre-sterilised) on specific points on the channel called as acu-points. This would help to balance the imbalances which amount to anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory and immune enhancing.

Description: Symptoms that can be treated by LU7 written in reference books | Download  Scientific Diagram

Are there any research studies to prove that acupuncture is effective to manage eczema?

Yes, there is a research article published in the year 2020 with a systematic review and meta-analysis which finds that acupuncture can be effective in the management of atopic dermatitis or eczema. The references are shared below for further reading.

Dr Gurudatta H K, BNYS, FCRSW - Founder, Anandamaya Wellness Center

References:
  1. Silverio-Lopes S, da Mot MPG. Acupuncture in Modulation of Immunity. In: Acupuncture in Modern Medicine. InTech; 2013. doi:10.5772/54286
  2. Jiao R, Yang Z, Wang Y, Zhou J, Zeng Y, Liu Z. The effectiveness and safety of acupuncture for patients with atopic eczema: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Acupuncture in Medicine. 2020;38(1):3-14. doi:10.1177/0964528419871058

 

TAGS : Health, Yoga

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