Traditional Chinese Medicine and Psoriasis
Skin & Beauty · ICD-10 L40
Psoriasis (银屑病) is a chronic, immune-related skin condition marked by thick, red, scaly patches. TCM approaches are used only as complementary care and should stay under the ongoing supervision of a dermatologist. This information is educational and is not advertising or an individual diagnosis.
The TCM perspective
TCM views psoriasis through patterns of Blood Heat, Blood Stasis, Wind-Damp-Heat, and, in chronic stages, Blood Deficiency leading to dryness. Care approaches such as acupuncture and herbs aim to help ease discomfort and support the body's balance. This is complementary to conventional treatment only; it does not replace dermatologist care, and results may vary from person to person.
TCM patterns
- Blood Heat — Rapidly spreading red, scaly patches, associated with accumulated heat during flares.
- Blood Stasis — Dark, thick, chronic patches, associated with obstructed circulation.
- Wind-Damp-Heat — Itchy, scaly eruptions, associated with external factors and internal dampness.
- Blood Deficiency-Dryness — Dry, cracked, flaky skin seen in chronic stages where nourishment is insufficient.
General self-care
- Moisturize regularly to help reduce dryness and flaking.
- Avoid scratching or scrubbing affected areas to limit triggering.
- Manage stress and rest adequately, as these can be triggers.
- Avoid known triggers such as very cold, dry weather or skin injury.
When to consult a doctor
- Stay under the ongoing care of a dermatologist and use TCM only as a complement.
- If patches spread rapidly, become infected, or joint pain appears, see a physician.
- Do not stop or adjust medication prescribed by your dermatologist on your own; always consult the doctor first.
This content is provided for general knowledge only. It is not individual medical advice and does not guarantee any result. Appropriate care should follow an assessment by a licensed TCM practitioner. For severe or emergency symptoms, see a doctor or call 1669.
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