Got Acne, Eczema or Psoriasis? Acupuncture Can Help
Our skin is our most visible organ and can often be the first thing people notice about us. If you suffer from a severe case of acne, eczema, or psoriasis, your skin care is the most important thing you think about. Over-the-counter medicine is a common first line of defense, but often the side effects are worse than the issue they are supposed to treat.
Acupuncture has proven to be an effective treatment option for various skin conditions. The goal is to achieve balance between the systems of the body and the external environment we live in. Acupuncture uses both needle insertion and herbs to treat various issues, depending on the needs of the client. Common skin conditions include:
- Acne scars and blemishes
- Severely dry or itchy skin
- Hives
- Eczema rashes
- Red, itchy patches (as seen with rosacea)
According to experts at Pacific College of Health and Science, “Traditional Chinese medicine use the Three Yellow Cleanser (San Huan Xi Ji) to treat about 60% of skin disorders, which include acne, eczema, dermatitis, rashes, and psoriasis. The formula, which has been in use for many centuries, consists of four cleansing herbs with a ‘cold property’ that clears the internal heat (Qing Re), stops itching (Zhi Yang) and prevents secretions (Shou Se) from oozing further. Three of the four herbs used in the formula have a yellow hue, hence the name.”
“The four herbs — Rhubarb (Dai Huang), Sophora (Ku Shen), Phellodendron (Huang Bai) and Skullcap (Huang Qin) — were placed under scientific study and were found to have anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral qualities. Clinical research indicated that Phellodendron (Huang Bai) is very effective in treating eczema.”
“Aside from the extensive use of Chinese herbs, traditional Chinese medicine also recommends acupuncture as a parallel treatment for skin disorders. Stimulation of acupuncture points increases the production of endorphins and simultaneously activates the immune and endocrine systems. Acupuncture points are specific nerve points that give particular access to the system of energetic meridians, which perform different functions depending on their location.”
What you can Expect
Your acupuncturist will do a complete health history prior to your first treatment to better understand your needs and develop the proper course of action. For relief from most skin disorder, acupuncture points along the arms, legs, and torso are targeted. An allergy test might also be performed to check any possible underlying causes of the skin issue.
In 2002, the World Health Organization published a review and analysis of acupuncture clinical trials that provided some promising results. However, it is commonly understood that treatment alone won’t achieve the desired results. Usually, a change in diet is also warranted. People with skin disorders like the ones mentioned here should avoid alcohol, fish, shrimp, and crab. Incorporating green, leafy vegetables and fruits into a balanced diet is highly recommended.
Acupuncture for skin issues has very few side effects; and can be used either alone or in combination with more conventional treatments. If you suffer from acne, psoriasis, or eczema talk to your acupuncturist about the herbal, nutrition and other treatment options available to you. Get that healthy skin glow back and make your appointment today.