What is neurodermatitis called in traditional Chinese medicine?
Oct 07, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
Neurodermatitis is called psoriasis in traditional Chinese medicine. Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with a long course, recurring throughout the year, and in severe cases, it remains incurable for life. This condition primarily affects young and middle-aged adults, characterized mainly by erythema, occurring all over the body, and worsening most significantly during winter. In summary, when psoriasis appears, one should seek medical attention promptly and undergo treatment under the guidance of a physician.
Neurodermatitis is known as psoriasis in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Detailed analysis is as follows:
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by a prolonged course and recurring episodes throughout the year, with severe cases remaining incurable for life. It primarily affects young and middle-aged adults, presenting mainly as erythematous plaques that can occur anywhere on the body, with symptoms most severe during winter.
According to TCM theory, psoriasis is closely related to emotional factors. Poor emotional well-being, such as feelings of depression or irritability, may disrupt the flow of qi and blood, causing stagnation in the skin. Chronic illness depletes blood and damages yin, leading to blood deficiency, dryness, and internal wind; alternatively, damp-heat originating from the spleen combined with external wind pathogen may accumulate in the skin and trigger the disease. TCM treatment focuses primarily on dispelling wind and relieving itching. Modified formulas such as Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San are commonly used to nourish the blood, soothe the liver, clear heat, and expel wind. Additionally, topical herbal washes containing ingredients like Sophora flavescens (Ku Shen), Dictamnus dasycarpus bark (Bai Xian Pi), and Kochia scoparia seeds (Di Fu Zi) may also provide therapeutic benefits.
In summary, when psoriasis occurs, patients should seek timely medical attention and receive proper treatment under professional guidance to avoid delays that could worsen the condition.
