Traditional Chinese Medicine & Acne
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient health system from China which has been used for thousands of years to look at the root of the body. It is based on the belief that Qi, the body's vital energy, flows along meridians (channels) in the body and keeps a person’s spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical health in balance. It encompasses various psychological, physical and herbal approaches to improve health which include acupuncture, nutrition, herbal therapy, meditation, movement, cupping, and massage.
The TCM approach to acne is to view acne as a disease which is related to the pathogenic influence of damp heat and heat on specific meridians. This heat might be caused by poor diet, overworking, stress, congenital conditions, or the natural increase in Yang energy.
Our bodies are made up of Yin and Yang energies, which are opposing manifestations of Qi that exist in harmony. Yin refers to the exhibition of Qi energies that are cold, damp, passive, material, and form. Yang refers to the hot, warm, active, immaterial, and functional aspects of Qi energy.
This Yang heat affects lung and stomach meridians which causes acne to show in different areas of the body. Heat present in the lung meridian, which is caused by external wind pathogens, causes skin redness. Heat in the stomach meridian is caused by greasy and spicy foods; this weakens the body systems and increases damp heat in the "stomach Fu and spleen Zang."
In TCM, each food has its own energy of Qi so we can use nutrition to balance the body. For acne, it is suggested to avoid greasy, spicy, and damp foods to reduce damp heat and excess Yang in the body.
Reduce:
Hot foods and drinks, including pungent spices such as chilli and dry ginger, red meat and oily foods.
Chemical food additives, coffee, and alcohol should also be avoided.
Include:
Bitter vegetables and herbs to encourage detoxification of the liver such as chicory, rocket, and artichoke.
Foods with a cool energetic should be included such as white or oily fish; fermented foods like sauerkraut and kimchi; cruciferous vegetables such as sprouts, cabbage, and kale; hydrating vegetables such as salad leaves, cucumber, and celery; vegetable juices; hydrating fruits; and peppermint tea.
Some cold foods such as raw food, smoothies, iced drinks, and sushi.
Some neutral foods such as steamed grains, boiled vegetables, chicken, and water at room temperature.
Herbs and adaptogens can also be used: Adaptogens help regulate the hormones and nervous system which supports the skin. Herbs to reduce stress and regulate hormones can include restorative, immune-boosting herbs like ashwagandha, liquorice root, schizandra berry, ginseng, and astragalus. Specific herbs depend on the individual's needs.
Increasing blood flow is important too. In TCM, acne can be caused by stagnation of blood, which is caused by the dampness and warmth of the skin. Cupping is a method used to increase blood circulation and reduce heat by drawing toxins into the cups. Gentle exercise for movement increases blood flow. Breaking a sweat is beneficial but don't put too much stress on the body.
Acupuncture on the face can also support acne. It creates micro-traumas on your skin and this boosts the production of collagen. The practitioner does not have to place the needles on your face; they can be placed on particular acupoints. Internally, this can support the gut and hormones which directly impact the skin.
The Traditional Chinese Medicine Face Map
The traditional Chinese medicine face mapping technique is called mien shiang, which translates to “face reading”. It is a tool that’s been used as a practice for over 3000 years and views areas of the face in connection to the organs of the body. It is said that the skin shows bodily imbalances through the skin with breakouts, redness, dryness and other changes.
Main forehead - Small intestine.
Above the eyebrows - Bladder.
Temples and under the nose - Heart.
Next to the eyes and middle of the eyebrows - Liver.
Under the eyes - Kidneys.
Centre of cheeks (apples of the face) - Stomach.
Sides of the mouth - Large intestines.
Side of cheeks - Lungs.
Chin and jawline - Reproductive systems.
Have you considered using Traditional Chinese Medicine to support your acne?
Melissa <3
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