In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), psoriasis is believed to be caused by a combination of factors, including external triggers and internal imbalances.
External triggers may include exposure to cold, dry weather, wind, or excessive heat, as well as physical or emotional stress, injuries, or infections. These factors can disrupt the body’s natural balance of Qi and blood and create a state of stagnation or excess. One of my clients does very poorly in the dry altitude of Colorado, yet almost like magic all his skin issues clear up when he travels to a tropical climate with dampness – humidity and heat.
Internal imbalances may include deficiencies or excesses of Qi, blood, and other vital substances, as well as an accumulation of toxins in the body. These imbalances can lead to a disturbance in the body’s immune system, which can result in an overproduction of skin cells and the formation of psoriatic lesions.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), health is viewed as a state of balance and harmony between the body, mind, and environment. When there is an imbalance or disruption in this balance, it can lead to the development of disease.
According to TCM theory, disease arises when these patterns of disharmony become entrenched and chronic, leading to a breakdown in the body’s natural healing processes. By addressing the underlying imbalances, TCM treatment aims to restore the body’s natural balance and promote the body’s natural healing processes, allowing it to regain its state of health and wellbeing.
By restoring balance to the body, treatment for one disease like psoriasis may result in the resolution of another disorder like high blood pressure. We call these SIDE BENEFITS, instead of side effects!
TCM recognizes that the human body is a complex system with many interdependent parts and functions. These parts and functions are interrelated and constantly interacting with one another, and any disruption or imbalance can affect the whole system.
TCM diagnosis for psoriasis involves examining the skin condition, as well as other symptoms and signs, such as the color and coating of the tongue, the quality of the pulse, and any other symptoms that may be present. Treatment strategies may include herbal remedies, dietary modifications, and acupuncture, with a focus on addressing the underlying imbalances and promoting the body’s natural healing processes.
The differentiation of psoriasis is based on the pattern of symptoms and signs that are observed in the patient. Here are some common TCM differentiations for psoriasis:
- Blood heat: This differentiation is characterized by red, raised lesions that are often accompanied by itching and burning sensations. The lesions may also be accompanied by other symptoms, such as a dry mouth, thirst, and constipation. This pattern is often associated with excess heat in the blood, which can be caused by factors such as emotional stress, a diet that is high in spicy or greasy foods, or exposure to excessive heat.
- Blood stasis: This differentiation is characterized by purple or dark red lesions that are often accompanied by pain and tenderness. The lesions may also be accompanied by other symptoms, such as a feeling of heaviness in the limbs, menstrual irregularities, and dark urine. This pattern is often associated with a stagnation of Qi and blood, which can be caused by factors such as physical injuries, emotional stress, or a sedentary lifestyle.
- Wind-dampness: This differentiation is characterized by lesions that are accompanied by a feeling of heaviness and dampness in the affected area. The lesions may also be accompanied by other symptoms, such as joint pain, fatigue, and a sensation of coldness in the affected area. This pattern is often associated with the invasion of wind and dampness, which can be caused by factors such as exposure to damp environments, a weak immune system, or poor circulation.
- Kidney deficiency: This differentiation is characterized by lesions that are accompanied by a feeling of dryness and flakiness in the affected area. The lesions may also be accompanied by other symptoms, such as a feeling of weakness in the lower back, frequent urination, and tinnitus. This pattern is often associated with a deficiency of Qi and blood in the kidneys, which can be caused by factors such as aging, chronic illness, or overwork.
Partner with a licensed acupuncturist – who is also a board certified herbalist! – like Longevity Wellness to find out what’s causing your psoriasis and the HEALTHIEST way to restore balance in your body! Book today!