Question: I am a woman in my late forties and in the last couple of years I have developed rosacea—the skin on my nose and cheeks is red and blotchy all the time. How does TCM treat this problem?
Answer: TCM sees rosacea as a condition caused by a Liver and Stomach function disorder. The two organs are not functioning in harmony. Generally it is a Liver function disorder that causes Stomach function problems. When the nose shows a red color it means that the Stomach has an excess: the Stomach’s energy has stagnated and a lot of heat is generated. This heat is then reflected on the face and nose.
There are signals that the body gives when it’s on a path toward this condition. People who suffer from this problem might first experience bad breath, heartburn, constipation, and in women, menstrual cycle disorder. These are all signs of a Liver function disorder; they show there is already an energy stagnation. The idea is that people suffer from stress, anger, or some kind of emotional disorder, and these states prevent the Liver energy from flowing. Then the Liver energy tries to “attack” the Stomach and causes a Stomach energy dysfunction.
From the Western perspective rosacea is difficult to treat because the root cause of the problem is not treated. They don’t treat the Liver; they concentrate only on the skin. But by treating just the skin you will never fix this kind of problem. The red and blotchy skin is only the outcome of the root cause of the problem. TCM doesn’t focus on the skin. It focuses on helping to smooth Liver and Stomach function because the energy is stuck there. Other important factors are diet and lifestyle: these have to change.
TCM uses acupuncture and herbs to treat rosacea. Also, people who have this condition can greatly benefit by a change in diet. They should stay away from foods that create heat in the body: eat less meat and cheese. Also avoid foods that are more difficult to digest and cause “excess” conditions in the body. Foods like bean sprouts and celery are very helpful to cool the body down.
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The Dragon’s Way® is a great introduction to the TCM approach to self-healing. Each six week class offers instruction in Qigong exercises, diet, and stress-management. Find a Dragon’s Way® class in your area.
