Is Houttuynia cordata helpful for eczema?
Aug 06, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, Houttuynia cordata (fishy-smelling herb) may have certain adjuvant effect on some types of eczema, but it is not effective for all eczema cases, and proper dosage must be observed during use. When using Houttuynia cordata to manage eczema, it can be applied externally by boiling the herb in water, cooling it down, and then washing the affected area. For internal use, the dosage should be controlled, and prolonged usage should be avoided. Meanwhile, individuals with allergic constitutions should use it cautiously to prevent allergic reactions.
Generally, Houttuynia cordata may have certain adjuvant effect on some types of eczema, but it is not effective for all eczema cases, and proper dosage should be noted during use. Detailed analysis is as follows:
Houttuynia cordata is a common herb known for clearing heat, detoxifying the body, reducing swelling, and relieving itching. Its volatile oil and other components can help alleviate eczema caused by damp-heat, such as symptoms including skin redness, papules, itching with exudation. Topical application or appropriate oral intake of Houttuynia cordata may help reduce local inflammation and itching. However, if the eczema is of the chronic dry type, characterized by rough skin, scaling, itching without exudation, the heat-clearing effect of Houttuynia cordata may not be suitable, and it may not achieve significant improvement. In addition, excessive use of Houttuynia cordata may irritate the skin and worsen discomfort.
When using Houttuynia cordata to manage eczema, it can be applied topically by boiling the herb in water, cooling it, and then washing the affected area. For oral use, the dosage should be controlled and long-term use should be avoided. Individuals with allergic constitutions should also use it cautiously to prevent allergic reactions.
