Acupuncture and Skin Problems

Other conditions that can sometimes flare up in the Spring are some skin problems, especially eczema.  Although it may come as a surprise, acupuncture can be extremely useful for skin conditions, from eczema to psoriasis or urticaria. Factors leading to skin problems vary from environment allergens such as pollen, chemicals, soaps or specific fabric to stress or even the change in seasons!  It is often useful to address any potential dietary issues as our intestinal health is directly related to our immune system strength, and all those skin conditions are to some extent an overreaction of the immune system leading to inflammation to the skin.

How can acupuncture help?
Acupuncture often needs to be combined with dietary therapy when dealing with skin conditions. In terms of Chinese medicine, skin problems are associated with heat (if the skin is red and itchy or feels hot to the touch), dampness (if there are signs of oozing or fluid accumulation) among other things.  Some acupuncture points help the transformation of fluids in the body while other points are used to "clear heat" or cool the body.
Depending on the diagnosis and your diet/lifestyle, it may be useful to avoid certain types of foods while including others in your diet.  In most cases it will be helpful to avoid processed foods, dairy products (especially cow's milk), wheat products, sugar, fried and fatty foods, alcohol and it will be beneficial to include probiotics in your daily routine, as well as eating green leafy vegetables (the list of beneficial foods is likely to vary depending on the individual diagnosis however).  In addition, starting the day with lemon in hot water or wheat grass or a green juice will help stimulate the liver's ability to rid your body of toxins, which may also in turn help your skin.

Other helpful treatments
In some cases a food allergy test will isolate foods that may cause the problem.  To alleviate the symptoms topically you may find that creams and moisturisers with calendula, yarrow, lavender or chamomile are helpful in reducing the irritation.