Understanding the Root Cause of Acne: A TCM Perspective

Acne is one of the most common skin concerns, affecting people of all ages and skin types. While many treatments focus on topical solutions, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach by identifying and addressing the internal imbalances causing acne.

At Lang Acupuncture and Holistic Health in Brisbane, we believe exploring the internal body imbalances is an important component to supporting health skin and the management of acne.

The Holistic Approach to Acne - Chinese Medicine

How does Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) View Acne?

In TCM, acne is not just a surface-level problem but a reflection of disharmony in the body. Several factors contribute to its development, often linked to the state of internal organs and energetic imbalances. These include:

1. Excess Heat in the Body

   
   

   Excess Heat is a common culprit for acne in TCM. When excessive heat builds up, it can manifest as inflamed, red, and painful pimples. This heat can stem from an imbalanced diet, stress, or other lifestyle factors.

   
   

2. Dampness and Phlegm Accumulation

   
   

   Dampness in TCM refers to an excess of fluids that the body cannot process effectively. It can mix with heat to create pustular or cystic acne. Foods like dairy, fried foods, and sugary treats often contribute to dampness.

   
   

3. Qi and Blood Stagnation

   
   

   Acne that appears along the jawline or is persistent may indicate stagnation of Qi (energy flow) and blood. This stagnation can lead to hormonal imbalances and toxins lingering in the system, making the skin vulnerable to breakouts.

   
   

4. Imbalances in Organ Systems

   
   

   Each organ in TCM is associated with specific functions and areas of the body. For example:

   • The Lungs govern the skin, so lung imbalances may cause acne on the cheeks.

   • The Stomach and Spleen are linked to digestion; their dysfunction can lead to dampness and heat, triggering breakouts.

   • The Liver plays a key role in detoxification. If it becomes overburdened, acne may appear.

   
   

   All organs need to be balanced and flowing synergistcally to allow for healthy pimple free skin.

Supporting the Body Holistically to Manage Acne

At our Brisbane clinic, we take a personalized approach to treating acne. Here’s how TCM can help:

• Acupuncture: Acupuncture is thought to regulate Qi and blood flow, supporting the clearing of dampness and heat within the body

• Herbal Medicine: There are patent herbal formulas designed to clear heat, eliminate dampness, and promote the movement of qi and blood from a Chinese Medcine perspective. All these processes are required to support symptoms of acne from a TCM perespective.

• Dietary Therapy: We guide you toward foods that are thought to cool the body and reduce dampness while avoiding those that exacerbate acne.

• Lifestyle Recommendations: Stress management, proper hydration, and adequate sleep are emphasized to promote overall health and radiant skin.

A Traditional Chinese Medicine Recipe to Support Acne Imbalances from TCM perspective

Here’s a nourishing White Fungus Skin Soup recipe that incorporates ingredients that help imbalances commonly associated with acne and is aligned with the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This soup is a common soup passed down from generation in Chinese and Vietnamese culture. All the ingredients can be found at your local Chinese/Asian supermarket.

White Fungus Skin Soup Recipe

Ingredients

• 35g Dried lotus seeds

• 35g-70g Dried white fungus

• 35g Red dates (jujubes), pitted

• 35g Goji berries

• 35g Pearl barley

• 35g Dried Longan

• 2L Water

• Rock sugar or honey (to taste)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • Soak the dried white fungus in boiling water for 10 minutes, or until soft. Trim the hard stem and cut it into smaller pieces.

   • Soak the lotus seeds and pearl barley in warm water for about 10 minutes. If the seeds have green cores (bitter), remove them for a sweeter flavor.

   • Rinse the red dates, longan and goji berries. Cut the red dates into smaller pieces if preferred.

     
     

2. Start Cooking:

   • In a large pot, bring 1.5 liters of water to a boil.

   • Add the lotus seeds and pearl barley

     
     

3. Simmer:

   • Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the lotus seeds are soft

     
     
     
     

4. Add Sweetener, Red dates, Longan:

   • Add rock sugar to the soup, stirring until dissolved.

   • Add red dates and longan and simmer on medium for another 5-10 minutes or until soft.

   
   

5. Add Goji Berries Last

   • Add the goji berries in the last 5 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming too soft.

     
     

6. Serve:

   • Enjoy the soup warm or chilled as a dessert or a nourishing treat.

Benefits of the Ingredients (from a TCM perspective)

• White Fungus: Resolves Water Accumulations, Moistens Dryness, Calms Spirit, Clears Deficient Heat

• Lotus Seeds: Builds Qi and supports the Kidney, Spleen, Heart. Supports Jing.

• Red Dates: Nourishes Qi and Blood

• Goji Berries: Tonifies Blood and Yin

• Longan: Tonify Qi and Blood

• Rock Sugar: Tonifies Qi and moisturises Lungs.

Embrace the Holistic Perspective to your Health in Brisbane

At Lang Acupuncture and Holistic Health, we are passionate about supporting you achieve healthy, radiant skin through natural and holistic methods. If you’re struggling with acne and seeking a personalised, holistic approach, we’re here to support you.

Book a consultation today to discover how TCM may support your skin needs and overall wellbeing.