Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune condition, can be a debilitating and frustrating experience for those who suffer from it. The constant itching, redness, and flaking can significantly impact daily life, making it difficult to maintain a sense of normalcy. For many, the conventional treatments available may not provide the desired relief, leading to a search for alternative methods. In this article, we will explore how to cure psoriasis using Chinese medicine, a holistic approach that has been used for centuries to promote overall well-being.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by red, scaly patches on the skin. In Chinese medicine, psoriasis is understood as a manifestation of an imbalance in the body’s energy, or “qi.” This imbalance can be caused by various factors such as stress, poor diet, and environmental toxins.
How Can Chinese Medicine Cure Psoriasis?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach to managing psoriasis symptoms by addressing the underlying imbalances in the “qi.” These are the common TCM psoriasis interventions using various techniques and herbal remedies.
- Acupuncture psoriasis: Involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points to facilitate an anti-inflammatory immune response. We already know how acupuncture can facilitate healing in eczema skin. Acupuncture can also help decrease inflammation, reduce scaling and facilitate healing in plaque and guttate psoriasis.
- Chinese medicine powder: There are herbal powders in Chinese medicine that can be very effective in reducing inflammation in skin conditions like eczema. These topical eczema powders are just as effective in treating psoriasis.
- Qigong: A technique that involves the manipulation of breath, movement, and meditation to stimulate the flow of qi and promote healing. This technique can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, which in turn may help to alleviate psoriasis symptoms.
- Chinese Herbal Formulas: Combination of various herbs that work together to address specific patterns of imbalance in the body. Certain herbs like peony root, licorice root and japanese honeysuckle flower have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help soothe and calm the skin. According to Singapore’s top TCM psoriasis expert, these formulas can be used to treat different types of psoriasis, depending on the presentation and the patient response.
Is Chinese Medicine Effective in Getting Rid of Psoriasis?
Chinese medicine psoriasis treatment has been studied for centuries. A systematic review of 11 high-quality randomized controlled trials found that Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) was effective in treating psoriasis, with significant improvements in symptoms and quality of life.
The review used meta-analysis to combine the results of the individual studies and found that CHM had a low toxicity profile and was well-tolerated by patients.
Another study published in the journal *Chinese Medicine* provided a comprehensive overview of the principles, methods, and analysis of Chinese medicine in the treatment of psoriasis. The article highlighted the unique advantages of Chinese medicine in understanding and treating psoriasis, including its ability to classify syndromes and diagnose etiology and pathogenesis.
The study also emphasized the importance of combining Chinese medicine with modern medicine and suggested several directions for future research, such as the use of blood indexes and viscera-related treatments.
A network pharmacological study published in 2020 explored the mechanism of three traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulae for different syndrome types of psoriasis vulgaris. The study found that each formula had unique targets and regulated different pathways and biological processes, contributing to their individualized treatment applications.
The study concluded that the three TCM formulae exhibited common mechanisms to some extent, but their differences at molecular and systems levels may contribute to their unique applications.
Can TCM Treat Psoriatic Arthritis?
Psoriatic Arthritis is a more complicated variant of psoriasis. On top of skin problems associated with plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis patients also suffer from joint pain that is associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Listen to the video below to learn more.
Conclusion
Chinese medicine presents a promising natural approach to managing and alleviating the symptoms of psoriasis. Numerous studies have highlighted the efficacy of Chinese herbal medicine in treating psoriasis, demonstrating significant improvements in symptoms and quality of life with minimal side effects. The holistic nature of Chinese medicine, combined with its ability to classify and treat different patterns of psoriasis, offers a comprehensive alternative or complement to conventional treatments.
