Acupuncture and Chinese herbs are an alternative option for the treatment of eczema and other skin conditions. A recent study reveals the effectiveness of using acupressure to alleviate redness and itching associated with eczema. So what does this mean? First, this study acts as another example of the growing evidence of the effectiveness of a system of medicine that is difficult to study. Second, not only is acupuncture effective in treating the symptoms of eczema, this study yields that acupressure is also an effective option for children and/or those wary of needles. Generally, acupuncture tends to have a stronger and faster response than acupressure. However, the ability for patients to be taught appropriate acupressure points for self-care is an invaluable tool*.
Acupuncture treats eczema by stimulating specific points on the body that target the root cause of the condition. Simultaneously, the needles provide a vent in the skin to free the pathological energy that is “stuck” under the surface of the skin leading to redness, swelling and itching.
Want to know more? Take a look at this article posted by the National Eczema Association for the full story. http://www.nationaleczema.org/alternate-routes-acupuncture-acupressure-and-eczema/research
*Acupressure points to try:
LI – 11: This point is approximately located on the crease of the arm. Looking at the back of your hand, follow the line up the center of the arm just between the crease and the elbow.
SP – 10: Find this point about 2 inches directly above the top corner of the inside of the knee cap in the fleshy part of the thigh.
