Chinese and Herbal Medicines and Skin Conditions.
Chinese and Herbal Medicines and Skin Conditions.
Chinese and Herbal Medicines and Skin Conditions.
Learn about the power of Chinese Herbal Medicines to tackle skin conditions.
Learn about the power of Chinese Herbal Medicines to tackle skin conditions.
Learn about the power of Chinese Herbal Medicines to tackle skin conditions.
2023-03-15T00:00:00.000Z
2023-03-15T00:00:00.000Z
2023-03-15T00:00:00.000Z
Chinese Herbal Medicine is an age-old cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), with roots dating back more than 2,000 years. Its rich history and distinctive theoretical structure, separate from Western medicine, make it a fascinating area for those interested in alternative health solutions. Today, let's delve into how it might help manage skin conditions, including eczema.
Unravelling Chinese Herbal Medicine
At the core of TCM and, consequently, Chinese Herbal Medicine, is the concept of harmonising the body's vital energy, or qi (pronounced "chee"). This healing modality is built on a complex set of philosophical principles encompassing Yin-Yang, the Five Elements, the human body Meridian system, Zang Fu organ theory, and more. Disease is perceived to arise when there's disruption or imbalance within these systems.
Chinese Herbal Medicine focuses on promoting the body's self-healing mechanisms, leveraging specific herbs with characteristic natures, tastes, meridian tropism, and healing properties. However, rather than single herbs, you'll often find formulas of multiple herbs combined to enhance efficacy and offset potential side effects.
Decoding Common Prescriptions
Here are some widely used herbs and formulas in TCM:
Astragalus (Huang Qi): Hailed for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects.
Ginseng (Ren Shen): Often used for its reputed energy-boosting properties.
Gingko (Yin Xing): Primarily used for potential effects on memory and cognition.
Rhizoma coptidis (Huang Lian): Celebrated for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and potential anti-cancer properties.
Licorice (Gan Cao): Regularly used to harmonise effects of other herbs and mitigate possible side effects.
Formula: Liu Wei Di Huang Wan - This formula is commonly used for conditions like kidney and liver deficiencies.
Formula: Yin Qiao San - This is often prescribed at the onset of a common cold or flu.
Chinese Herbal Medicine is an age-old cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), with roots dating back more than 2,000 years. Its rich history and distinctive theoretical structure, separate from Western medicine, make it a fascinating area for those interested in alternative health solutions. Today, let's delve into how it might help manage skin conditions, including eczema.
Unravelling Chinese Herbal Medicine
At the core of TCM and, consequently, Chinese Herbal Medicine, is the concept of harmonising the body's vital energy, or qi (pronounced "chee"). This healing modality is built on a complex set of philosophical principles encompassing Yin-Yang, the Five Elements, the human body Meridian system, Zang Fu organ theory, and more. Disease is perceived to arise when there's disruption or imbalance within these systems.
Chinese Herbal Medicine focuses on promoting the body's self-healing mechanisms, leveraging specific herbs with characteristic natures, tastes, meridian tropism, and healing properties. However, rather than single herbs, you'll often find formulas of multiple herbs combined to enhance efficacy and offset potential side effects.
Decoding Common Prescriptions
Here are some widely used herbs and formulas in TCM:
Astragalus (Huang Qi): Hailed for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects.
Ginseng (Ren Shen): Often used for its reputed energy-boosting properties.
Gingko (Yin Xing): Primarily used for potential effects on memory and cognition.
Rhizoma coptidis (Huang Lian): Celebrated for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and potential anti-cancer properties.
Licorice (Gan Cao): Regularly used to harmonise effects of other herbs and mitigate possible side effects.
Formula: Liu Wei Di Huang Wan - This formula is commonly used for conditions like kidney and liver deficiencies.
Formula: Yin Qiao San - This is often prescribed at the onset of a common cold or flu.
Chinese Herbal Medicine is an age-old cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), with roots dating back more than 2,000 years. Its rich history and distinctive theoretical structure, separate from Western medicine, make it a fascinating area for those interested in alternative health solutions. Today, let's delve into how it might help manage skin conditions, including eczema.
Unravelling Chinese Herbal Medicine
At the core of TCM and, consequently, Chinese Herbal Medicine, is the concept of harmonising the body's vital energy, or qi (pronounced "chee"). This healing modality is built on a complex set of philosophical principles encompassing Yin-Yang, the Five Elements, the human body Meridian system, Zang Fu organ theory, and more. Disease is perceived to arise when there's disruption or imbalance within these systems.
Chinese Herbal Medicine focuses on promoting the body's self-healing mechanisms, leveraging specific herbs with characteristic natures, tastes, meridian tropism, and healing properties. However, rather than single herbs, you'll often find formulas of multiple herbs combined to enhance efficacy and offset potential side effects.
Decoding Common Prescriptions
Here are some widely used herbs and formulas in TCM:
Astragalus (Huang Qi): Hailed for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects.
Ginseng (Ren Shen): Often used for its reputed energy-boosting properties.
Gingko (Yin Xing): Primarily used for potential effects on memory and cognition.
Rhizoma coptidis (Huang Lian): Celebrated for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and potential anti-cancer properties.
Licorice (Gan Cao): Regularly used to harmonise effects of other herbs and mitigate possible side effects.
Formula: Liu Wei Di Huang Wan - This formula is commonly used for conditions like kidney and liver deficiencies.
Formula: Yin Qiao San - This is often prescribed at the onset of a common cold or flu.
Evidence in Spotlight: Atopic Dermatitis and Chinese Herbal Medicine
There's been a surge in scientific interest to evaluate the efficacy of Chinese herbal medicines through the lens of modern science. One compelling study titled "Efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine for atopic dermatitis: Evidence from eight high-quality randomised placebo-controlled trials" provides some promising insights.
This research concluded that Chinese Herbal Medicine may offer a beneficial treatment option for atopic dermatitis (eczema), underpinned by a favourable safety profile. However, larger scale and more rigorous clinical trials are required to cement these findings firmly.
These results give hope to those seeking alternative treatments for skin conditions like eczema, which can often be stubborn to conventional treatment.
Safety and Side Effects: A Considered Approach
Like any medicinal approach, Chinese Herbal Medicine isn't without its side effects, ranging from mild digestive upset to more serious issues like potential liver damage or interactions with other medicines. Key considerations when taking these herbal medicines include:
Quality and Purity: Ensure you source your products from trustworthy suppliers to avoid potential contamination with heavy metals, pesticides, or other undesirable substances.
Allergies: Be aware that you may be allergic to certain herbs.
Interactions: Some herbs can interact with other medications, either enhancing or decreasing the effect of the other drugs.
Overdose: While many herbs are safe in moderate amounts, excessive consumption can lead to adverse effects.
To navigate these potential risks, always consult with a qualified TCM practitioner or healthcare provider before beginning any herbal treatment.
Regulation: Know Your Sources
In many countries, including the UK, Chinese herbal medicines are regulated as food supplements. This implies that they do not have to fulfil the same stringent safety and efficacy proofs as conventional medicines before being marketed. On the other hand, in China and several other countries where TCM is part and parcel of the healthcare system, there's stricter regulation akin to that for conventional medicine.
Wrap Up: A Holistic Approach
Chinese Herbal Medicine presents a comprehensive and historically rich field with the potential to address stubborn skin conditions like eczema. Yet, it's vital to use these herbal solutions wisely, under the guidance of a qualified practitioner.
While there's mounting evidence supporting their use, more high-quality research is needed to establish their benefits unequivocally and to seamlessly incorporate them into the wider healthcare system. Always remember that while Chinese Herbal Medicine can be part of the treatment plan for skin conditions, it should be used as a complementary approach and not a replacement for conventional treatment.
Evidence in Spotlight: Atopic Dermatitis and Chinese Herbal Medicine
There's been a surge in scientific interest to evaluate the efficacy of Chinese herbal medicines through the lens of modern science. One compelling study titled "Efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine for atopic dermatitis: Evidence from eight high-quality randomised placebo-controlled trials" provides some promising insights.
This research concluded that Chinese Herbal Medicine may offer a beneficial treatment option for atopic dermatitis (eczema), underpinned by a favourable safety profile. However, larger scale and more rigorous clinical trials are required to cement these findings firmly.
These results give hope to those seeking alternative treatments for skin conditions like eczema, which can often be stubborn to conventional treatment.
Safety and Side Effects: A Considered Approach
Like any medicinal approach, Chinese Herbal Medicine isn't without its side effects, ranging from mild digestive upset to more serious issues like potential liver damage or interactions with other medicines. Key considerations when taking these herbal medicines include:
Quality and Purity: Ensure you source your products from trustworthy suppliers to avoid potential contamination with heavy metals, pesticides, or other undesirable substances.
Allergies: Be aware that you may be allergic to certain herbs.
Interactions: Some herbs can interact with other medications, either enhancing or decreasing the effect of the other drugs.
Overdose: While many herbs are safe in moderate amounts, excessive consumption can lead to adverse effects.
To navigate these potential risks, always consult with a qualified TCM practitioner or healthcare provider before beginning any herbal treatment.
Regulation: Know Your Sources
In many countries, including the UK, Chinese herbal medicines are regulated as food supplements. This implies that they do not have to fulfil the same stringent safety and efficacy proofs as conventional medicines before being marketed. On the other hand, in China and several other countries where TCM is part and parcel of the healthcare system, there's stricter regulation akin to that for conventional medicine.
Wrap Up: A Holistic Approach
Chinese Herbal Medicine presents a comprehensive and historically rich field with the potential to address stubborn skin conditions like eczema. Yet, it's vital to use these herbal solutions wisely, under the guidance of a qualified practitioner.
While there's mounting evidence supporting their use, more high-quality research is needed to establish their benefits unequivocally and to seamlessly incorporate them into the wider healthcare system. Always remember that while Chinese Herbal Medicine can be part of the treatment plan for skin conditions, it should be used as a complementary approach and not a replacement for conventional treatment.
Evidence in Spotlight: Atopic Dermatitis and Chinese Herbal Medicine
There's been a surge in scientific interest to evaluate the efficacy of Chinese herbal medicines through the lens of modern science. One compelling study titled "Efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine for atopic dermatitis: Evidence from eight high-quality randomised placebo-controlled trials" provides some promising insights.
This research concluded that Chinese Herbal Medicine may offer a beneficial treatment option for atopic dermatitis (eczema), underpinned by a favourable safety profile. However, larger scale and more rigorous clinical trials are required to cement these findings firmly.
These results give hope to those seeking alternative treatments for skin conditions like eczema, which can often be stubborn to conventional treatment.
Safety and Side Effects: A Considered Approach
Like any medicinal approach, Chinese Herbal Medicine isn't without its side effects, ranging from mild digestive upset to more serious issues like potential liver damage or interactions with other medicines. Key considerations when taking these herbal medicines include:
Quality and Purity: Ensure you source your products from trustworthy suppliers to avoid potential contamination with heavy metals, pesticides, or other undesirable substances.
Allergies: Be aware that you may be allergic to certain herbs.
Interactions: Some herbs can interact with other medications, either enhancing or decreasing the effect of the other drugs.
Overdose: While many herbs are safe in moderate amounts, excessive consumption can lead to adverse effects.
To navigate these potential risks, always consult with a qualified TCM practitioner or healthcare provider before beginning any herbal treatment.
Regulation: Know Your Sources
In many countries, including the UK, Chinese herbal medicines are regulated as food supplements. This implies that they do not have to fulfil the same stringent safety and efficacy proofs as conventional medicines before being marketed. On the other hand, in China and several other countries where TCM is part and parcel of the healthcare system, there's stricter regulation akin to that for conventional medicine.
Wrap Up: A Holistic Approach
Chinese Herbal Medicine presents a comprehensive and historically rich field with the potential to address stubborn skin conditions like eczema. Yet, it's vital to use these herbal solutions wisely, under the guidance of a qualified practitioner.
While there's mounting evidence supporting their use, more high-quality research is needed to establish their benefits unequivocally and to seamlessly incorporate them into the wider healthcare system. Always remember that while Chinese Herbal Medicine can be part of the treatment plan for skin conditions, it should be used as a complementary approach and not a replacement for conventional treatment.
Dr Niall Jawad
Dr Niall Jawad
Dr Niall Jawad
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Your questions.
Answered.
Not sure what to expect? These answers might help you feel more confident as you begin.
Didn’t find your answer? Send us a message at
hello@proton-health.com — we’ll respond with care and clarity.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Symphony is built for chronic skin conditions: acne, eczema, psoriasis, and topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). These are the conditions where understanding your triggers matters most — and where the traditional "here's a cream, see you in 3 months" approach fails hardest. If you're dealing with something else, reach out — we're expanding based on what our members need.
Is my data protected?
Is my data protected?
Your data is encrypted, never sold, and never used for advertising. You can export it. You can delete it anytime. Read our full privacy policy below.
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
You could — if you could get an appointment, afford the visit, and somehow give them access to absolutely everything that happened between visits. The reality: your dermatologist sees a snapshot. Symphony sees the full picture — what you ate, how you slept, what products you used, how stressed you were — and connects it to how your skin responded. We're not replacing your dermatologist. We're giving them (and you) context they'd never otherwise have.
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
If you've been dealing with a chronic skin condition and still don't fully understand why your skin flares — you're a good candidate. Symphony works best for people willing to track consistently (a few minutes a day) and who want to understand their patterns, not just treat symptoms. If you're looking for a quick fix or a magic cream recommendation, we're probably not the right fit.
What if I've tried everything already?
What if I've tried everything already?
Then you're exactly who we built this for. "Tried everything" usually means you've tried a lot of products and treatments — but you've never had the tools to see how your skin actually responds to your life. Symphony doesn't give you more things to try. It helps you understand what's already happening — so the next thing you try is actually informed by your data. It knowing instead of guessing.
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Symphony's AI and tracking tools are not a replacement for medical advice — they help you understand patterns in your own data, but they don't diagnose or prescribe.
That said, we know insights alone aren't always enough. That's why our Premium tier includes referrals to specialist dermatology consultations, gut and skin microbiome testing, and comprehensive lab panels — actual specialists who review your Symphony data.
The app gives you context and understanding. When you need clinical expertise, we connect you with professionals who understand your story.
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
Most "AI skincare" apps take a photo, run it through a basic algorithm, and recommend products they get commission on. They're not trying to help you understand your skin — they're trying to sell you things. Symphony doesn't work that way. We analyze your symptoms, lifestyle, stress, diet, and products over time to find patterns unique to you. We don't sell skincare products directly, and our recommendations are based on your data — not affiliate deals.
When we do recommend products, we're checking thousands of products against YOUR specific sensitivities and triggers. The goal is to stop you wasting money, not to add to the pile of half-used bottles under your sink.
Can I cancel anytime?
Can I cancel anytime?
Yes. No contracts, no cancellation fees. If Symphony isn't working for you, you can cancel in a few clicks. We'd rather earn your trust every month than trap you in one.
Your questions.
Answered.
Not sure what to expect? These answers might help you feel more confident as you begin.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Symphony is built for chronic skin conditions: acne, eczema, psoriasis, and topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). These are the conditions where understanding your triggers matters most — and where the traditional "here's a cream, see you in 3 months" approach fails hardest. If you're dealing with something else, reach out — we're expanding based on what our members need.
Is my data protected?
Is my data protected?
Your data is encrypted, never sold, and never used for advertising. You can export it. You can delete it anytime. Read our full privacy policy below.
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
You could — if you could get an appointment, afford the visit, and somehow give them access to absolutely everything that happened between visits. The reality: your dermatologist sees a snapshot. Symphony sees the full picture — what you ate, how you slept, what products you used, how stressed you were — and connects it to how your skin responded. We're not replacing your dermatologist. We're giving them (and you) context they'd never otherwise have.
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
If you've been dealing with a chronic skin condition and still don't fully understand why your skin flares — you're a good candidate. Symphony works best for people willing to track consistently (a few minutes a day) and who want to understand their patterns, not just treat symptoms. If you're looking for a quick fix or a magic cream recommendation, we're probably not the right fit.
What if I've tried everything already?
What if I've tried everything already?
Then you're exactly who we built this for. "Tried everything" usually means you've tried a lot of products and treatments — but you've never had the tools to see how your skin actually responds to your life. Symphony doesn't give you more things to try. It helps you understand what's already happening — so the next thing you try is actually informed by your data. It knowing instead of guessing.
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Symphony's AI and tracking tools are not a replacement for medical advice — they help you understand patterns in your own data, but they don't diagnose or prescribe.
That said, we know insights alone aren't always enough. That's why our Premium tier includes referrals to specialist dermatology consultations, gut and skin microbiome testing, and comprehensive lab panels — actual specialists who review your Symphony data.
The app gives you context and understanding. When you need clinical expertise, we connect you with professionals who understand your story.
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
Most "AI skincare" apps take a photo, run it through a basic algorithm, and recommend products they get commission on. They're not trying to help you understand your skin — they're trying to sell you things. Symphony doesn't work that way. We analyze your symptoms, lifestyle, stress, diet, and products over time to find patterns unique to you. We don't sell skincare products directly, and our recommendations are based on your data — not affiliate deals.
When we do recommend products, we're checking thousands of products against YOUR specific sensitivities and triggers. The goal is to stop you wasting money, not to add to the pile of half-used bottles under your sink.
Can I cancel anytime?
Can I cancel anytime?
Yes. No contracts, no cancellation fees. If Symphony isn't working for you, you can cancel in a few clicks. We'd rather earn your trust every month than trap you in one.
Didn’t find your answer? Send us a message at
hello@proton-health.com — we’ll respond with care and clarity.
Your questions.
Answered.
Not sure what to expect? These answers might help you feel more confident as you begin.
Didn’t find your answer? Send us a message at
hello@proton-health.com — we’ll respond with care and clarity.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Symphony is built for chronic skin conditions: acne, eczema, psoriasis, and topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). These are the conditions where understanding your triggers matters most — and where the traditional "here's a cream, see you in 3 months" approach fails hardest. If you're dealing with something else, reach out — we're expanding based on what our members need.
Is my data protected?
Is my data protected?
Your data is encrypted, never sold, and never used for advertising. You can export it. You can delete it anytime. Read our full privacy policy below.
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
You could — if you could get an appointment, afford the visit, and somehow give them access to absolutely everything that happened between visits. The reality: your dermatologist sees a snapshot. Symphony sees the full picture — what you ate, how you slept, what products you used, how stressed you were — and connects it to how your skin responded. We're not replacing your dermatologist. We're giving them (and you) context they'd never otherwise have.
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
If you've been dealing with a chronic skin condition and still don't fully understand why your skin flares — you're a good candidate. Symphony works best for people willing to track consistently (a few minutes a day) and who want to understand their patterns, not just treat symptoms. If you're looking for a quick fix or a magic cream recommendation, we're probably not the right fit.
What if I've tried everything already?
What if I've tried everything already?
Then you're exactly who we built this for. "Tried everything" usually means you've tried a lot of products and treatments — but you've never had the tools to see how your skin actually responds to your life. Symphony doesn't give you more things to try. It helps you understand what's already happening — so the next thing you try is actually informed by your data. It knowing instead of guessing.
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Symphony's AI and tracking tools are not a replacement for medical advice — they help you understand patterns in your own data, but they don't diagnose or prescribe.
That said, we know insights alone aren't always enough. That's why our Premium tier includes referrals to specialist dermatology consultations, gut and skin microbiome testing, and comprehensive lab panels — actual specialists who review your Symphony data.
The app gives you context and understanding. When you need clinical expertise, we connect you with professionals who understand your story.
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
Most "AI skincare" apps take a photo, run it through a basic algorithm, and recommend products they get commission on. They're not trying to help you understand your skin — they're trying to sell you things. Symphony doesn't work that way. We analyze your symptoms, lifestyle, stress, diet, and products over time to find patterns unique to you. We don't sell skincare products directly, and our recommendations are based on your data — not affiliate deals.
When we do recommend products, we're checking thousands of products against YOUR specific sensitivities and triggers. The goal is to stop you wasting money, not to add to the pile of half-used bottles under your sink.
Can I cancel anytime?
Can I cancel anytime?
Yes. No contracts, no cancellation fees. If Symphony isn't working for you, you can cancel in a few clicks. We'd rather earn your trust every month than trap you in one.